Why Booking a Newborn Photographer Before Baby Arrives Is So Important
You’re counting down the weeks, folding the tiniest clothes imaginable, and wondering who your little one will look like. Those final days of pregnancy are full of anticipation and excitement — and a little bit of planning, too. In the midst of all these preparations, there’s one task that’s easy to overlook: booking your newborn photographer.
As one of Minneapolis’s best newborn photographers who’s worked with countless Twin Cities families, I can tell you — booking your session before baby arrives is one of the smartest (and calmest) decisions you can make. Here’s why early booking matters so much and how it helps ensure you get the timeless images you’re dreaming of.
The Ideal Window for Newborn Photography
The best time to photograph a newborn is when baby is approximately 2 weeks old. During this time frame, babies are still naturally sleepy, but also beginning to be aware of you and their surroundings! This means we will be able to capture their little features while also getting some images of them looking at you! Their little features are fresh and delicate — eyelashes, button noses, soft hair — everything you’ll want to remember forever.
When you book your newborn photographer in Minneapolis before your baby arrives, you’re reserving that perfect window — even if your little one decides to arrive a bit early or late.
Why Timing Matters More Than You Think
Pregnancy flies by, and once your baby is here, those first days blur together in a swirl of feedings, snuggles, and very little sleep. The last thing you’ll want to do is scramble to find a photographer who still has an opening.
Newborn photographers often book out months in advance — especially in the Twin Cities, where there’s only a handful of specialized studios that focus on newborns full-time. By reserving early, you ensure your spot is safely held on the calendar.
I always recommend expectant parents reach out during their second trimester (or early in the third) to reserve a session. That way, you can check it off your list and relax knowing you’ve secured one of the most important keepsakes you’ll ever invest in.
Limited Availability Means Quality and Care
Every baby deserves a calm, unhurried experience — and that’s exactly why I limit the number of newborn sessions I take each week. Each family who walks through my studio doors gets my full attention: from pre-session planning to personalized styling and gentle, baby-led posing.
By booking early, you’re not just saving a date — you’re securing a tailored experience designed around your family. You’ll have time to talk through details, choose color palettes, and plan meaningful touches that make your session feel personal and authentic.
And if your baby comes earlier or later than expected? No problem. Once you’ve booked, your session is flexible. I’ll adjust your date based on your baby’s arrival so you don’t have to worry about a thing.
Peace of Mind During Those Final Weeks
There’s something incredibly freeing about knowing one more thing is handled before your baby arrives. When you’ve booked your newborn photographer, you can focus on resting, nesting, and enjoying those last quiet moments before life changes in the most beautiful way.
Your to-do list shortens. You have peace of mind. And when your baby makes their debut, you’ll already have someone ready to photograph their very first days — safely, gently, and beautifully.
As someone who has photographed hundreds of newborns in Minnesota, I can promise: this little bit of planning now will be something you’re grateful for later.
Newborn Photography Tips Minnesota Parents Should Know
I have been a newborn photographer for over 10 years, am designated a master newborn photographer from the National Association of Portrait and Child Photographers, and a mom for over 20 years! As a result, I’ve gathered a few insights that can make your newborn session both peaceful and meaningful.
1. A Peaceful Setting and All the Details Prepared for You
In my cozy Minneapolis studio, I keep the environment warm, quiet, and soothing. Babies feel that calm energy, and it makes all the difference. You simply come to my studio and everything will be ready for you: photo ready dresses will be ready for mom, outfits for baby, and a small kitchenette with coffee, tea, and snacks.
2. Feedings and Diaper Changers are part of the process.
We pause whenever baby needs to eat or needs to be changed. Some moms love to capture the memory of breast feeding and I I will capture that in a beautiful way! These breaks often lead to some of the sweetest, most natural moments.
3. Bring sentimental touches.
Although I provide all the details for your session - from dresses for mom to outfits and swaddles for baby, feel free to bring favorite blanket, a tiny hat from Grandma, or a meaningful swaddle adds emotional connection to your images.
4. Trust your photographer.
Safety always comes first. Every pose is gentle and baby-led — no forcing or rushing. My hands are on your little one every step of the way, ensuring comfort and care.
I want all of my Minnesota families to come to their session feeling confident and relaxed— and they’re exactly the kind of thoughtful touches that make each session uniquely yours.
Flexibility Around Your Baby’s Arrival
One of the biggest concerns expectant parents have is timing:
“What if my baby comes early? Or late?”
The answer: it’s completely fine.
When you book early, I note your due date and reserve space on my calendar around that time. Once your baby arrives, you simply reach out, and we finalize your actual session date within those first couple of weeks.
That flexibility is built in — so whether baby arrives on schedule or surprises you, your session will fit seamlessly into your new routine.
The Experience You Deserve: Calm, Safe, and Beautifully Personal
Your newborn session should feel peaceful — never rushed, never stressful. In my Minneapolis newborn photography studio, I’ve designed every detail with both baby and parents in mind. Soft, natural tones. Cozy wraps and textures. A calm, inviting space where you can relax while I photograph you loving on your new baby.
What Happens After You Book
Here’s a simple look at how the process works once you’ve reserved your newborn session:
Reserve Your Session: Ideally during your second trimester — this secures your due date on my calendar.
Receive Your Prep Guide and Styling: You’ll get helpful newborn photography tips and select dresses from my client wardrobe so you will feel prepared come session day.
Stay in Touch: As your due date approaches, we’ll confirm your session timing based on baby’s arrival.
Session Day: You arrive, relax, and let me handle the rest. I’ll photograph your entire family with baby beautifully as well as baby alone while you simply enjoy the moment.
After your session, you’ll choose your favorite images from an online gallery, and I’ll design timeless photo books and prints that fit your home and style — heirlooms you’ll treasure long after those tiny fingers have grown.
Let’s Plan Your Baby’s First Photos — Together
Your baby’s first days are a once-in-a-lifetime moment — gone in the blink of an eye, but never forgotten when they’re beautifully preserved.
Booking your newborn photographer before your baby arrives ensures you’ll have a calm, seamless experience and timeless portraits that reflect this incredible chapter of your life.
If you’re expecting in the Twin Cities and wondering when to start planning, the answer is simple: now is the perfect time.
Ready to Book? Fill out a Scheduling Information Form or check out my Newborn Session Information Page for more details on your newborn photography session in Minneapolis. I’d love to help you plan a photography session to welcome your sweet baby!
FAQ’s
When should I book a newborn photographer in Minneapolis?
The best time is during your second trimester — sessions are typically scheduled for when your baby is 7–14 days old.
What if my baby arrives early or late?
No worries! Once you’ve booked, we adjust your session based on your baby’s actual arrival.
Do you offer in-home newborn sessions?
For families who have special needs and would like their session at home, this is always an option.
