When to Schedule Your First Family Photos After Baby Arrives

Everything changes with the birth of your new baby. The days seem both lengthy and brief. You’re sleep-deprived, wildly in love, and watching your tiny newborn grow faster than you thought possible.

Somewhere in the blur of diapers, feedings, and midnight rocking, you might wonder:

When is the best time to take our first family photos?

The truth is there’s no single perfect answer. Just seasons. Each one tells a different story. And your family photos can be as early, or as relaxed, as feels right for you.

As a family photographer, I’ve created this simple guide to help you choose the timing that fits your energy, your baby’s rhythm, and the kind of memories you want to capture.

1–2 Weeks Old: The Newborn Window

This is the stage where your baby is still brand new: curled up, sleepy, and tiny enough to fit in the crook of your arm. If you want those dreamy, peaceful newborn portraits, this is the ideal window. The focus is usually on quiet, tender moments: soft skin, little fingers, the calm love between you.

In-home or lifestyle-style newborn sessions can be beautiful during this time, especially if you want to remember the way your baby melted into your chest or slept through everything.

Keep in mind:

• You might still be emotionally and physically recovering from giving birth.

• Flexibility is key; babies run the schedule.

• These sessions are usually calm, quiet, and focused on connection.

4–8 Weeks Old: Awake and Aware

Your baby might become more talkative and alert around the month or two mark. They may open their eyes wider, track your face, and start to show those first soft smiles. This is a lovely time for a relaxed family session, where the focus is not just on your baby but on the growing connection between you all.

You’ve had a little time to settle into your routine. You may feel more like yourself. And you’re starting to notice those “little moments” that make this season special, the way your baby rests their hand on your chest or lights up when they hear your voice.

What you’ll capture:

• Eye contact

• First smiles

• A growing sense of personality

• Candid moments of family life with your newborn

  
  
  
  

3–6 Months: That Sweet Baby Glow

By this point, your baby is stronger, more expressive, and possibly sitting up with support. Their personality is starting to shine - giggles, little squeals, wide-eyed wonder. If you missed the earlier window, don’t worry, this is one of the most joyful stages to document.

Family photos at this age are full of connection. There’s interaction, movement, and laughter. And for parents who want to look and feel a bit more rested, this stage can be a beautiful balance between babyhood and those early newborn days.

Ideal for:

• Big, gummy smiles

• Snuggles and playime

• Sitting in your lap or supported on a blanket

• Families who want joyful, energetic moments

  
  
  
  

So... When Is Your Right Time?

There’s no rulebook when it comes to family photography after baby arrives. The key is that you feel ready, emotionally, physically, and practically.

Ask yourself:

• Do I want sleepy newborn photos, or more expressive ones?

• Would I feel more comfortable after a few weeks have passed?

• Do I want to include older siblings or grandparents?

  
  
  
  

Whatever timeline you choose, your love for this little person will show. It always does.

Let’s Capture This Season, However It Looks

Your baby will only be this small once. Whether you want to photograph them at a few days old or wait until they can hold your gaze and coo in your arms, as a family photographer, I’d be honored to help you capture it.

Let’s choose the right time together.

Reach out when you're ready, and I’ll help guide you through every step, gently, naturally, and with all the aloha this moment deserves.

Contact me today to start planning your first family photo session on Oʻahu.