Let’s cut to the chase - there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this. But as a photographer (and a mum) who has spent countless hours coaxing gummy smiles, calming newborn cries, and dancing like a lunatic to make toddlers laugh, I can promise you this: every age has its magic.
Still, if you’re planning a session and want the low-down on what to expect at different milestones, this guide is for you. Consider it your honest, no-fluff breakdown of when to book what, and why.
Newborn (0–3 Weeks)
The Sleepy Cuddle stage
Ah, the newborn days. Sleep-deprived, milky, and a bit surreal. From a photography point of view, the first 7–21 days are the sweet spot for those dreamy, curled-up poses. Babies are still very sleepy, flexible, and relatively unbothered by their surroundings.
Pros:
Ideal for those serene, womb-like poses
Sleepy babies = easier posing = meeting your expectations
It’s a once-in-a-lifetime window (trust me!)
Cons:
You’re in survival mode (hello, cluster feeding)
Recovery time for birth might make this feel overwhelming
Alma’s Tip: If you're even thinking about a newborn shoot, book it during pregnancy. Babies have a habit of arriving early, late, or on their mysterious schedule. Booking before the baby arrives ensures you do not miss it.
4–8 Weeks:
The Sweet Spot You Didn’t Expect
This age is often skipped over, but hear me out: babies start making eye contact, smiling intentionally, and showing off their first hints of personality.
Pros:
Wide eyes and adorable facial expressions
Beginning of that social, responsive phase
Cons:
Less of the posed, sleepy newborn look
Baby acne might make a surprise appearance
Worth It If: You missed the newborn window or didn’t feel ready earlier. You’ll still get precious shots - just a bit more real and raw.
3–5 Months:
Hello, Chunky Rolls and Cheeky Grins
This is when babies become aware of the camera..and you. Expect more movement, smiles, and those chubby thighs that deserve their own photoshoot.
Pros:
Stronger neck control means cuter tummy time pics
Giggles and coos galore
Cons:
Still not fully sitting up yet
Sessions need to be shorter and well-timed
Alma’s Honest Take: This age is underrated. If you love expressive, smiley photos and don't mind propping the baby up a bit, or being in the photo with them - GO for it!
6–9 Months:
The Sit & Smile Phase
If I had a pound for every client who said, “I wish we’d done photos at this age,” I’d probably own a pony. Babies at this stage can sit independently, smile like pros, and haven’t usually hit the stranger-danger phase.
Pros:
Sitting without support = more variety
Big smiles, claps, and curious expressions
Less mobile = easier to photograph = less leg work for parents
Cons:
Some separation anxiety may begin around 8–9 months
Alma’s (Photographers) pick: Honestly, this is one of the best times for baby photos. There’s so much joy without the chaos of chasing a toddler.
1 Year Old:
Cake Smash & First Birthday Fun
Time to celebrate! Turning one is a huge milestone, and a cake smash session is a brilliant way to mark it. It’s playful, messy, and oh-so-fun to capture.
Pros:
Genuine reactions to new textures and tastes (hello, frosting!)
Great variety: clean portraits + smash fun + maybe even a bubble bath finish
Perfect for birthday invitations, albums, walls and keepsakes
Cons:
Not every baby loves cake—yes, really! - But we can override this by having any other food! watermelon? sure! Pasta? Let’s go all Italian style.. Strawberries - yes yes yes.. the sky is the limit!
Some may get overwhelmed by the setup or mess - but nothing too serious that extra wipes and time to settle can’t help with!
Alma’s Pro Move: Keep it simple and follow the baby’s lead. Whether they demolish the cake or delicately poke it with one finger, you’ll get priceless expressions and a whole lot of character.
Family Sessions
at Any Age
And let’s not forget the parents! You are a huge part of their story. Family sessions can be beautiful at any stage, whether your baby is days old or starting secondary school. You don’t need to wait for the "perfect" time (spoiler: it doesn’t exist).
What matters most is capturing this chapter as it is. Imperfect, fleeting, and completely yours.
Final Thoughts (And a Loving Nudge)
Whatever age you choose, know this: you’ll never regret having photos that freeze time. Whether it's the milk-drunk snoozes, the gummy grins, or the full-blown toddler tantrums - these moments matter.
Need help deciding the best time for your own family session? Just drop me a message. I’d love to help you plan something beautiful, honest, and 100% you.
And if you’re reading this at 3 am with a baby on your chest and cold tea beside you - hi. I see you. You’re doing amazing.
Love,
Alma