I missed the window for newborn photos, now what? | Expert Advice From Your Minneapolis Newborn Photographer

At Julie Ann Photography, one of the most common messages I get from new parents sounds something like this:
“I meant to book newborn photos, but time got away from me… My baby is already 4 (or 6 or even 8!) weeks old. Did I miss the window?”

Take a deep breath, mama—you’re not too late. There is still time to capture beautiful, heartfelt portraits of your little one, and I’m here to help you do just that.

What Is the “Newborn Photo Window” Anyway?

Traditionally, newborn photography sessions are done within the first 5 to 12 days after birth. That’s when babies are the sleepiest, curliest, and most cooperative for those natural poses, and sleepy images that many parents envision.

But here’s the truth: there’s no hard rule, especially when you’re working with a professional who understands baby-led posing and natural, timeless portraiture.

What If My Baby Is Older Than Two Weeks?

If your baby is past that typical two-week mark, we simply adjust our approach.

Here’s what you can expect:

  • More Awake Moments: Older babies are often more alert, which means we can capture those wide-eyed expressions and fleeting first smiles.
  • Gentler Posing: While some curled-up poses may no longer be safe or comfortable, we’ll focus on wrapped poses, cozy swaddles, and snuggly moments in your arms.
  • Connection-Focused Portraits: This is the perfect time to highlight the bond between baby and parents. I love capturing baby in your arms, snuggled up to a shoulder, or resting peacefully on your chest.

These sessions are less about perfect posing and more about capturing real, emotional moments of connection—and they are just as beautiful.

Alternatives to a Newborn Session

If your baby is beyond the “newborn” stage, here are other session types we can plan:

  • Six-Week Milestone Session: A beautiful transitional session where baby is beginning to fill out, make eye contact, and show more personality.
  • Three-Month “Tummy Time” Session: This is when baby starts holding their head up and interacting with the world—full of smiles and sweet expressions.
  • First Year Milestone Plan: I offer milestone packages that document your baby’s first year from now through their first birthday—so even if we start a little later, we won’t miss a thing.

What Matters Most

Whether your baby is 10 days old or 10 weeks old, what matters most is capturing this fleeting season before it changes again. There’s no “perfect” time—there’s just this time. And it’s always worth photographing.

Let’s Make It Happen

If you missed the newborn photo window, don’t worry for one more second. Reach out to me at Julie Ann Photography, and I’ll help you find the best session type for where your baby is right now. I’ll walk you through every step and make sure your photos reflect the love, joy, and beauty of your growing family.

📍Located in Plymouth, MN
📸 Serving the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area
💌 Contact Me Today