Newborn Photography in San Francisco

This lifestyle newborn session was with a brand new five day old little boy in their San Francisco home. When I walked into their home, I loved this moment. The way the little guy fit right into daddy’s strong hands. And mom’s hands holding the baby’s little hands. They only stay that big for so long. Our memories fade and my hope is that these image will keep them alive for a very long time.

When should you photograph your newborn baby? I get asked this question a lot by potential clients. Moms are worried about not being able to lose that window of time to have their baby photographed. My answer to this question… it depends. There are various times you can consider having your baby photographed and here are a few stages that can help you make your decision based on what is important as well as your budget.

1. Brand new. You might hear a lot of newborn photographers talk about the best time being the first two weeks. This might seem a bit crazy for a brand new, sleep deprived mama (and dads). So, what is the hurry? In the early days, your baby will generally sleep soundly, curl up and also most likely be acne free. However, being brand new your baby is likely not on a schedule. You might find out that the baby might behave a little differently on the day of the shoot that they would otherwise. Whaaat? The baby might be fussy and it is perfectly normal as they are being handled quite a bit more and made to have a workout. New-born sessions can be time-consuming for documentary style sessions however I invite moms and dads to feed and change babies as needed. Often, it is also a part of the session that might be documented. Beautiful connection images of holding the baby, feeding the baby are all important for posterity. I try to keep the sessions relaxed and ultimately, it is not about perfectly posed babies (which I tried for a while and don’t do anymore. Currently, all my newborn sessions are similar to the session featured here which tends to be in the client’s home and a more relaxed approach without posing the baby. If your preference is a posed approach you might consider looking for a different photographer that can capture some beautiful images of your baby.

2. Three Months. I love this stage when babies are a little older and often on a slightly better schedule. Developmentally they are increasingly more aware of the world and you have had a little more time to get caught up on your sleep and rest. At this age, they can be on their stomachs and support their heads. Here is a lifestyle session with this lovely San Francisco family with their two month old baby girl and older toddler sister.

3. Six months. Your baby is not brand new and is probably starting to sit up by herself. From a photography perspective they still need to be supported and the best ways are with a parent holding them or sitting in some type of a prop. And there is of course lying on the bed or the floor. However, this is quite a different session from when the baby is a few days old. Here is a six month session on the blog.

If you have the budget to sessions at various stages, it is great however most try to pick a milestone for professional photographs that would be be cherished the most. I also think as individuals with varying tastes and most importantly knowing yourself as a new mom, it is best to take it all into consideration to make your decision. Don’t cheap out on these early photos… book a photographer that will create beautiful timeless memories that will be priceless for your family.

If you would like to book a professional newborn session, please contact me through the website.