Bringing home a new baby is one of life’s most special seasons — and it goes by so quickly. Many parents wonder: “When should I book my newborn photographer?” As a Nashville newborn photographer, this is one of the questions I hear the most. The good news is, there’s no “wrong” time, but there are some best practices that can help ensure my availability to give you the experience you’re dreaming of.

Newborn baby sleeping in crib for at home newborn photos

Why Book Early?

Most families reserve their newborn session at the beginning of the second trimester. Booking early means:

You can check photography off your list before things get busier later in pregnancy.
You have your first-choice photographer secured for your due month.
You can relax knowing your baby’s photos are already planned.

For many Nashville families, booking around the 14–20 week mark feels just right.

How Newborn Scheduling Works with Due Dates

Since due dates are really just estimates, I don’t schedule a specific photo date until after your baby arrives. Instead, I reserve a limited number of due dates per month.

Here’s what that looks like:

If your due date is September 15, I’ll mark that in my September calendar.
I only accept a certain number of due dates each month, which gives me flexibility when babies arrive early or later than expected.
Once your baby is born, you’ll reach out in the first few days, and we’ll schedule the exact date for your in-home session.

This system keeps things stress-free for parents, because it flows naturally with the unpredictable nature of newborn life.

What If You’re Booking Last-Minute?

While most families book ahead, I also know babies don’t always arrive on schedule (and sometimes, you don’t realize you want photos until after your baby is here!). Because of the way I structure my calendar, I can often accommodate last-minute newborn photo sessions in Nashville, Franklin, and Brentwood.

So if your baby is already here and you’re wondering if it’s too late — it’s not! Reach out and I’ll do my best to fit you in.

The Best Time for Photos

Newborn sessions typically happen within the first 2 weeks after birth, but I also love to photograph babies around 5-8 weeks or even later. This gives parents extra recovery time and babies are more alert. Every family is different, and I want your experience to feel calm, natural, and flexible.

Final Thoughts (TL:DR)

If you’re expecting, the best time to book your Nashville newborn photographer is during your second trimester — but know that I always leave space for the unexpected. Whether your baby arrives early or you’re reaching out after birth, I’ll work with you to make sure your family’s story is beautifully documented.

Ready to reserve your due date?
Contact me to learn more about in-home newborn photography in Nashville.

Reach out