When Should You Book Newborn Photos? (Seattle & Everett Guide)

If you're wondering when to book newborn photos, you're asking the right question.

One of the most common things I hear from expectant parents is, “When should I book newborn photos?” Between doctor appointments, nursery prep, and everything else on your plate, it’s completely normal to feel unsure about timing.

As an Everett newborn photographer serving families across Seattle and Snohomish County, I can tell you that planning ahead makes the entire experience much smoother and far less stressful.

The short answer: most families should reserve their newborn photographer during the second trimester. This is also a great time to book a maternity session if you're interested!

But there’s a little more nuance that can help you get the best possible results — and the calm, prepared experience busy new parents really need.

Why Timing Matters for Newborn Photography

Newborn photography is unique because there is a very small window when babies are naturally the sleepiest and most curled. Most posed newborn sessions are ideally photographed when your baby is between 10 and 21 days old.

During this stage:

• Babies sleep more deeply

• They settle more easily into poses

• They naturally curl into those classic newborn positions

• Sessions tend to feel calmer and more efficient

Because this window is short, photographers who specialize in newborn photography — especially experienced Everett newborn photographers — often book their calendars weeks or months in advance.

Waiting too long to schedule can mean fewer options and added stress at a time when you’re already adjusting to life with a brand-new baby.

If you’d like to see how newborn sessions work in my Everett studio, you can learn more about my newborn photography experience here.

The Best Time During Pregnancy to Book

For most Seattle and Everett families, the ideal time to book newborn photos is between 20 and 30 weeks pregnant.

This timing works well because:

• You’re past the early uncertainty of pregnancy

• There is usually still good availability on the calendar

• We have time to plan your session details

• Your due date can be reserved comfortably

Many overwhelmed moms tell me they feel immediate relief once this piece is handled.

As a Seattle newborn photographer who works with many busy professionals and growing families, I’ve built my process so you don’t have to manage every detail yourself. We simply reserve a date 10 days after your due date and we can reschedule if your baby arrives early/late.

Why Booking Early Reduces Stress

One of the biggest benefits of booking your newborn photographer early is peace of mind.

When your session is reserved ahead of time:

• You’re not scrambling after baby arrives

• You know your photographer is available

• Your session plan is already in place

• You can focus on recovery and bonding

This is especially important for Seattle-area parents juggling work schedules, older children, and the general exhaustion that comes with the newborn stage.

Many families who choose my Everett newborn photography studio also book maternity photos at the same time so both milestones are handled in one simple step. If that sounds appealing, you can explore the bump-to-baby bundle here. 

What Happens If Baby Arrives Early or Late?

This is one of the biggest concerns parents have—and the good news is that newborn photographers plan for it every day.

When you book newborn photos with IJ Photo, we reserve a date 10 days after your due date. Once your baby arrives, you simply reach out, and we decide if we need to change the scheduled session date and time.

This flexible approach is one of the reasons many Seattle families choose to travel to my Everett studio. It removes the pressure of trying to predict the exact day your baby will arrive while still protecting your place on the calendar.

Is It Ever Too Late to Book Newborn Photos?

If your baby has already arrived and you’re worried you missed the window, don’t panic — reach out anyway.

While the classic posed newborn stage is typically within the first two weeks, beautiful images can still be created with older newborns and young babies. An experienced Everett newborn photographer can safely adjust the session flow based on your baby’s age, alertness, and comfort level.

The sooner you inquire, the more flexibility we’ll have, but it is often still possible to create meaningful portraits even if you’re a little outside the traditional timeframe.

Why Many Seattle Parents Choose a Studio Session

Parents searching for a Seattle newborn photographer are often surprised to learn how many of my clients happily drive to Everett for their session.

For busy new parents, studio newborn photography offers some major advantages:

• No need to clean or prepare your home

• Consistent professional lighting

• A calm environment

• Access to wraps, props, and curated sets

• A space designed specifically for newborn safety

My Everett studio is located just minutes off I-5, making it convenient for families coming from Seattle, Bothell, Lynnwood, Mill Creek, and Marysville. Parents often tell me the short drive is well worth the ease of walking into a fully prepared space where everything is ready for them.

What to Do Next If You're Pregnant

If you’re currently expecting and researching when to book newborn photos, here are the simple next steps I recommend:

Step 1: Reach out during your second trimester
Step 2: Reserve your due date on the calendar
Step 3: Relax knowing the plan is in place

From there, I guide you through everything — what to expect, how the session flows, and how to prepare (spoiler: you don’t need to bring much).

If you're looking for an Everett newborn photographer who serves Seattle families and keeps the process calm and fully guided, reach out! 

Final Thoughts

The newborn stage passes incredibly quickly, and having a plan in place ahead of time makes the entire experience feel more relaxed and enjoyable.

Booking early doesn’t just secure your spot — it removes one more piece of mental load during an already full season of life.

If you’re unsure about timing or have questions about availability, I’m always happy to help you think through your options and create a plan that feels simple and stress-free for your growing family.