When to Book a Newborn Photo Session in Portland, OR

Toddler girl and newborn baby girl looking at each other as they both lay on a bed while the parents looking at their children

If you’re expecting a baby, one of the first questions that tends to pop up (usually somewhere between setting up the nursery and packing a hospital bag) is when should we book newborn photo session? It’s a great question, and an important one especially if you’re looking for a Portland newborn photographer whose work and approach really resonate with you.

 

The Ideal Time to Book Portland Newborn Photo Session

For a newborn photo session in Portland, OR, most sessions are booked during pregnancy, ideally in your second trimester or early third trimester. Newborn availability is limited because I only take a small number of sessions each month to allow flexibility for baby’s arrival. Booking during pregnancy means one less thing to think about once your baby arrives. Your spot is reserved, your questions are answered, and all that’s left is welcoming your baby.

Booking early means:

  • You’re guaranteed a spot on my calendar
  • We can plan without pressure
  • You don’t have to think about it once baby arrives

A toddler girl standing right next to bassinet and looking at a newborn sister in it

When the Session Actually Happens

You will contact me when your baby arrives, and we’ll discuss the date and time of actual session. The actual session usually takes place within the first two to four weeks after birth. Everyone’s recovery time after childbirth is different. Some can go back to fairly normal life quickly while others need to take things slowly for a

Lifestyle newborn photography is especially flexible during this time. Unlike posed studio sessions, there’s no pressure for your baby to be sleepy or perfectly curled. Instead, we move slowly and follow your baby’s lead—capturing feeding moments, cuddles, stretches, and all the tiny details that change so quickly.

You will contact me when your baby arrives, and we’ll discuss the date and time of actual session.

Lifestyle newborn sessions typically take place within the first 2–4 weeks after birth. This timing allows for:

  • A more relaxed pace
  • Natural interactions with parents and siblings
  • Babies who are still tiny but a bit more settled than the first few days

Newborn baby girl in floral onesie is laying in a wicker bassinet and looking at a camera

What If Baby Is Already Here?

If your baby has arrived and you haven’t booked yet, reach out anyway! I might have last‑minute openings, and older newborns are just as meaningful to photograph and the sessions are often even more reflective of real life.

If you’re searching for a Portland newborn photographer and want a calm, unhurried experience, booking during pregnancy is the best way to start. However, it’s never too late to reach out for baby session. Some families decide to wait until their babies are 2 or 3 month old, in some cases even longer to capture the new chapter of their lives. It’s never too late!

Family of 4 hanging out in the kitchen with newborn baby

Want to learn more about newborn sessions?

Go to The Ultimate Guide to Newborn Photography in Portland and read more of detailed newborn session related blogs.

If you are ready to book, visit Newborn Session Online Booking and book your session based on your due date.

More information for my newborn sessions are listed on my newborn session info page.

toddlers little hans touching her newborn sister's tiny hands

When to Book a Newborn Photo Session in Portland, OR