If you're expecting or just welcomed a new baby, you've probably been thinking about newborn photos. When should you book? What actually happens during a session? Do you need to have everything together first? As a newborn photographer in Skokie serving families across Chicago's North Shore, these are the questions I hear most. Let me walk you through everything.
When Should You Book a Newborn Photographer?
Most of my clients reach out either in their third trimester or once baby is already here — and both are totally fine. I get it, there's a lot going on and booking a photo session isn't always top of mind when you're prepping for a new baby.
That said, newborn sessions are best done in the first 5 to 14 days after birth. During this window, babies are sleepier, more flexible, and tend to curl up naturally into those peaceful poses you see in newborn photos. So if you can, a quick message during your third trimester lets me pencil in your due date and hold space for you. Then when baby arrives, you just text me and we lock in the actual date. No pressure, no deposits — just a heads up so I'm ready when you are.
What If My Baby Is Already Here?
Don't stress. If your baby is three weeks, six weeks, or even three months old, we can absolutely still do a beautiful session. It just looks a little different. Older newborns are more awake and alert, so instead of those curled-up sleepy poses, we lean into wide eyes, tiny smiles, and interaction with parents and siblings. Those are some of my favorite images to capture.
What to Expect During a Newborn Session
All of my newborn photography sessions are done in your home. There's a reason for that. You just had a baby. The last thing you need is to pack up a newborn, drive somewhere, and worry about parking. In-home sessions mean you're comfortable, baby is comfortable, and everything you need is right there.
Here's how it typically goes:
- I come to you. I'll arrive with everything I need. You don't need to set anything up or prep your home beyond normal tidying.
- We start with family and sibling photos. Older kids have shorter attention spans, so I like to get their photos done first while they're still excited and cooperative.
- Then we focus on baby. This is the calm, quiet part. We'll work near the best natural light in your home, usually by a large window. I'll gently guide baby into natural positions — nothing forced, nothing uncomfortable.
- We work around baby's schedule. If baby needs to eat, we pause. If baby needs to be changed, we pause. There's no rush. A typical newborn session runs about 1.5 to 2 hours, and a good chunk of that is just giving baby what they need.
- Parent and detail shots. Those tiny fingers wrapped around your hand. The way baby fits perfectly against your chest. The nursery you spent months putting together. These are the details you'll forget faster than you think, and they make some of the most meaningful photos.
How to Prepare for Your Newborn Session
Less than you think. Seriously.
- Feed baby right before the session. A full baby is a sleepy baby, and sleepy babies photograph beautifully.
- Keep the house warm. Newborns lose heat quickly, especially during skin-to-skin and diaper-only shots. I usually suggest setting the thermostat a few degrees warmer than normal.
- Wear simple, neutral clothing. Soft whites, creams, and light grays work beautifully and keep the focus on baby. Check out my what to wear guide for more ideas.
- Don't worry about your home being perfect. I'm only photographing in one or two spots with the best light. The rest of your house can look however it looks — I promise I won't judge. We all have a pile of laundry somewhere.
- Have backup outfits for baby. Blowouts happen. Spit-up happens. Having a couple of extra onesies or swaddles ready saves time.
What About Siblings?
If you have older kids, include them. Sibling photos with a new baby are some of the most precious images from a newborn session. I keep things playful and low-pressure, and I never force a child to hold the baby or smile for the camera. The real moments, like a toddler gently touching baby's head or peeking into the bassinet, are always better than a posed shot. Don't just take my word for it — hear what other families have said about their experience.
When Will I Get My Photos?
Your full gallery of edited images will be ready within 2 to 3 weeks after your session. Every photo is carefully edited for warmth, tone, and natural skin tones. I want your images to feel real and timeless — not overly filtered or trendy.
How Much Does a Newborn Session Cost?
My newborn sessions start at $250 for a one-hour session with 30+ edited images, and go up to $375 for the full 1.5-hour session with 45+ images. I also offer mini sessions and custom packages. You can see all the details on my sessions and pricing page.
Ready to Book?
Whether you're still expecting or baby is already here, I'd love to hear from you. I only take a limited number of newborn sessions each month so I can give every family the attention they deserve. Reach out and we'll figure out the rest together.
Serving families in Skokie, Evanston, Lincolnwood, Wilmette, and across Chicago's North Shore.