When is the best time to have newborn portraits taken?

The best time to have professional newborn photos taken is within the first 1-3 weeks. At this time your baby is the sleepiest and smallest to fit in all of our adorable props, wraps and outfits. If you have a complication and are unable to schedule within that timeframe, it is okay. We can still get adorable images of your baby. Your session just may take longer and your baby may not fit into all of our props, wraps and clothing.

How long does a newborn session take?

We tell our parents to plan for 2-3 hours. With new babies, it is not uncommon for us to stop and feed or soothe them to get them back to sleep. Our sessions typically average closer to 2 hours, but can sometimes take longer. If you follow our newborn session prep guide that is sent prior to your session, your baby should be nice and full and sleepy, and we should be able to get through your session quickly.

What should I do to prepare for my newborn photography session?

If you are nursing, avoid spicy foods and caffeine for 24 hours prior to your session. Your little one's belly is getting used to your milk, and this will hopefully avoid any gas or stomach issues. • Try to keep your baby awake for one hour prior to our session. I know this is hard, but do your best — this will help ensure a very sleepy baby for our session. • Dress your baby in loose-fitting clothing that zips or buttons up the middle so, if they arrive sleeping, we can undress them easily without waking. Avoid onesies or clothing that will have to go over the baby’s head. • Feed your baby right before leaving for the studio. Even if it is not a regular feeding time, offer them a feeding. A full, sleepy baby is always best.

What do I need to bring to my newborn photography session?

We provide all of the props, wraps, hats, headbands, buckets, bowls, tiny beds, and everything else for your session. We also provide diapers, wipes, Boppy pillows, soothers, and extra formula should you need it. You are welcome to bring any of your own items to be photographed with your baby, but you do not have to. If you are formula feeding or pumping, make sure to bring extra milk and a bottle.

Can family and siblings be included?

Yes, both parents and siblings are welcome to be included at no charge. Grandparents are also welcome. We even allow dogs upon request. We do ask that if siblings or grandparents would like to be included, they come either at the very beginning of the session and then leave, or come at the end of the session. Due to COVID-19, we are trying to limit the number of people in the studio for long periods of time.

How much do clients invest in their newborn photography session?

Our clients all tend to spend differently based on what their needs are. Our top selling item is our beautiful leather album. Our gorgeous albums are heirloom quality and will last for generations. When you purchase an album, you also get the matching hi-res digital image for every printed image in your album. So it is like getting two products in one. Our albums start at $1400 and go up from there. Most of our clients spend between $1000-$3000 on their portraits. If you have any additional questions or would like to book a newborn photography session, contact us here!

When to Book a Newborn Photographer | Columbus Ohio Newborn Photographer — Wildflower Fine Art Portraits - Columbus Newborn and Maternity Photographer

If you’re expecting a baby, one of the most common questions parents ask is:

When is the best time to book a newborn photography session?

As a Columbus, Ohio newborn photographer, I recommend booking your session during your second trimester, ideally between 20–28 weeks of pregnancy. Here’s why timing matters — and how to make sure you don’t miss out.

Why You Should Book Your Newborn Photographer During Pregnancy?

Many families don’t realize that newborn photography is booked months in advance. Because newborn sessions are scheduled around due dates (not fixed calendar days), photographers only take a limited number of newborn clients each month.

When you book early:

You secure a spot on the calendar
You guarantee availability around your due date
You have time to plan wardrobe and styling
You avoid last-minute stress after baby arrives

As a Columbus, Ohio newborn photographer, I only accept a certain number of newborn sessions each month to ensure each family receives a full-service, relaxed experience.

Waiting until baby is born can mean limited availability — especially during busy seasons.

What Is the Best Age for Newborn Photos?

Most newborn photography studios will tell you the ideal time to photograph newborns is between 5–14 days old. However, here at Wildflower we feel that window is much longer. We understand that sometimes parents and babies need a little more time. So we photograph babies up to 4-6 weeks old. The first 2-3 weeks is preferred because babies are still very sleepy, they curl naturally into poses and the classic newborn poses are easier to achieve. But, we will still get beautiful images of your precious baby, even if they are a little older.

That’s why booking ahead with your Columbus, Ohio newborn photographer ensures we reserve space around your due date and adjust once baby arrives.

Newborn photography session columbus ohio baby girl in neutral props — Here is an example of an older baby girl. This baby was 5 weeks old and we achieved beautiful newborn photographs for her family.

How newborn photography Booking Works

When you book your newborn photography session during pregnancy:

We reserve your due date month.
Once baby arrives, you contact the studio so we can see what dates we have available.
Your session is scheduled within the ideal window.

This flexible system ensures your baby is photographed at the perfect stage without adding stress during those early days at home.

Why Early Planning Creates a Better Experience

Booking early also gives you time to:

Access studio wardrobe for moms
Plan sibling outfits
Coordinate hair and makeup
Choose colors and styling preferences
Understand investment options

As a full-service Columbus, Ohio newborn photographer, I guide families through every detail so they can simply show up and enjoy the experience. If you would like to learn more about our Columbus, Ohio Newborn Photography sessions, view our portfolio and details HERE.

Behind the scenes at our Columbus, Ohio Newborn Photography studio

When Should I Reach Out?

The best time to contact your newborn photographer in Columbus, Ohio is during your second trimester. If you’re already in your third trimester, it’s still worth reaching out — but sooner is always better.

Newborn photography is one of the few milestones that cannot be recreated later. Babies change quickly in those first few weeks, and preserving those tiny details is something families cherish forever.

Ready to Reserve Your Due Date?

If you’re expecting and looking for a Columbus, Ohio newborn photographer, I would love to help you plan a timeless and stress-free newborn session.

Reach out today to reserve your due date on the calendar and begin planning your experience. Contact Us here!

When Is the Best Time to Book a Newborn Photography Session?