There are meaningful differences between a lifestyle in-home session when your baby is 1-3 weeks old versus 1-3 months old. Neither is better and truly just comes down to which one your family prefers.


See below a breakdown of the differences to help guide your decision.

1-3 Weeks Old: Classic Newborn Window


This is often the traditional "newborn" timeframe for newborn photography. At this age, babies often drift in and out of sleep throughout the session which allows for peaceful images in their crib or parents arms.


During this time, baby is:

  • often very sleepy
  • naturally curled and flexible
  • feeding frequently


SESSION FLOW:

The pace is lead by your newborn. We will pause for feeds and swaddle in a loose lifestyle blanket as needed. If you love the idea of documenting tiny details (fingers, flakey skin) along with your baby asleep in your arms, and/or the fresh from the hospital season of life, this window might be right for you.

Mother in white off-shoulder dress cradling sleeping newborn with bow headband.
Couple with newborn relaxing on white sofa surrounded by gallery wall of photos.
New parents sharing tender moment with newborn baby in white nursery setting.

1-3 Months Old: The "Older Newborn" Season


If you simply wanted more time at home to adjust and get settled or missed the newborn window, 1-3 months is absolutely worth documenting and just as beautiful. Your baby is very much still a newborn at this stage, just with more expression!


During this time, baby is:

  • more alert
  • making eye contact
  • starting to smile
  • active movements (stretching, kicking)
  • filling out outfits + baby rolls


SESSION FLOW:

There's often more movement, expression, and interaction.

Smiling mother holding alert newborn baby with cream bow headband in nursery chair.
Family sitting on colorful nursery rug reading to toddler while holding newborn baby.
Parents with toddler son admiring newborn baby near floral nursery crib mobile.



If you are unsure what timing fits your family best, I am always happy to chat.


Every home, every newborn, & every story is different which is what makes lifestyle sessions so meaningful in the first place!!