6 Common Reasons Parents Delay Newborn Photos (and Why You Might Want to Rethink Them)
Let’s be honest: those early newborn days are a blur of feeding, nappy changes, and trying to remember if you brushed your teeth. Booking a photo session can feel like one more thing on an already full list. I get it.
But over the years, I’ve heard lots of parents share their reasons for putting off newborn photos—and I’ve gently encouraged them to reconsider. Not out of pressure, but because these moments really are fleeting, and capturing them doesn’t have to be stressful.
Here are a few of the most common hesitations I hear, and some thoughts that might help shift your perspective:
1. “We’re not settled yet.”
Maybe you just moved house. Maybe you're still figuring out your routine. Either way, it’s completely normal to feel like things are in flux. The good news? Newborn sessions aren’t about a Pinterest-perfect home. I focus on the connection between you and your baby, not whether the laundry is folded or your living room is styled.
2. “I don’t feel like myself yet.”
Your body just did something incredible. And yes, you might still be in recovery mode and wearing the same two tops on repeat. But future you will be so glad to see the love, strength, and tenderness of these early days. There’s no pressure to “look perfect”—just to show up as you are.
3. “The baby’s a bit older now.”
Ideally, newborn sessions happen within the first month. But honestly? Beautiful, meaningful photos can be taken at 3 weeks, 6 weeks, or beyond. Each stage brings something special—whether it’s the sleepiness of week one or the wide-eyed curiosity of a slightly older baby.
4. “Our home isn’t photo-worthy.”
You’d be surprised what a bit of good light and thoughtful framing can do. I’m not there to judge your décor. Some of the most heartfelt images I’ve captured have been in modest, messy, totally lived-in spaces. It’s your story that matters, not your interiors.
5. “We want to wait until we’re more rested.”
Totally understandable... but the honest truth? That day may not come anytime soon. And that’s okay. These photos aren’t about being rested—they’re about documenting this raw, real, love-filled chapter of life.
6. “We’ll do it with the next baby.”
You might. Or you might not. Every child is different. Every chapter is unique. Your first baby (or second, or third!) deserves to be documented in their own right. There’s no “perfect time”—only right now.
Newborn photography isn’t about perfection. It’s about presence. It’s about honouring these days—messy, emotional, beautiful as they are—before they blur into memory.
If you’ve been on the fence, I’m here to help make the process as easy and relaxed as possible. No pressure, no performance—just honest, heartfelt storytelling of your family’s beginnings.
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Want to chat about what a newborn session could look like for you? Get in touch—I’d love to hear from you.