How to Book a Newborn Session (and Why Earlier Is Always Better)

You Just Found Out You’re Expecting – Now What?

Congratulations! Between prenatal appointments, setting up the nursery, and figuring out how to function on less sleep, booking a newborn photographer probably feels like something you can handle later.

But here’s the thing – later has a way of sneaking up on you fast.

I hear from moms who are in their third trimester (or already holding their brand-new baby) wondering if there’s still time to book. Sometimes there is. Sometimes I can work some magic. But the families who get the guaranteed session times are the ones who reach out early.

So let me walk you through exactly how booking a newborn session works with me, what to expect along the way, and why the timing matters more than most people realize.

Why Newborn Sessions Are Different to Book

Most photo sessions are simple – you pick a date, you show up. Newborn sessions don’t quite work that way, and honestly, that’s okay. It’s part of what makes them so special.

We’re working around one of the most unpredictable timelines in the world: when your baby decides to arrive.

Because of that, I use your due date as an initial placeholder on my calendar. I keep space built in around your estimated date so that when your little one makes their grand entrance, I’m ready. I only take on a limited number of newborn sessions at a time – this is intentional. It lets me stay flexible, give each family the time they deserve, and not have to rush anyone out the door.

Step-by-Step: How to Book Your Newborn Session

Step 1: Reach Out During Your Second Trimester

The sweet spot is somewhere around weeks 20-28. This is when most photographers (including me) have the most availability, and reaching out early means you lock in your spot and your pricing.

If my rates change after you’ve signed your contract, that doesn’t affect you. The price you signed for is the price you pay. That peace of mind is worth a lot.

Step 2: Sign Your Contract and Pay a Retainer

Once we connect and you’re ready to move forward, a signed contract and a non-refundable retainer are what officially reserve your spot. This is how I hold your place on my calendar and plan around your due date. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in keeping things smooth when the baby arrives.

Step 3: Baby Arrives – Then We Finalize the Date

Once your little one is here (or you know your induction date), you reach out and we lock in the official session date. I typically schedule sessions within 7-14 days of birth.

Personally, I find that closer to the two-week mark tends to work well for most moms. You’ve had a little time to settle in, and babies have usually filled back out after the small weight dip that sometimes follows birth. That said, every baby and every family is different, and I work with you on timing.

Step 4: Choose Your Session Style

This is one of my favorite conversations to have with families because there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. You have a few options:

• Studio session – A clean, neutral space that you don’t have to prep before I arrive. Great if you want that classic, timeless look.
• In-home lifestyle session – Held in your own comfortable home, the space your family actually lives in and loves. These images feel so personal.
• Fresh 48 – Captured at the hospital shortly after birth, in those very first hours of your baby’s life.
• A combination – Some families do a Fresh 48 at the hospital and a studio session a week or two later. Both tell a different part of the story.

Ultimately, I want the pictures to reflect you and what means the most to your family.

Step 5: Review the Prep Guide

Once you’re booked, I’ll send over a prep guide to help you feel ready. Things like what to wear, how to keep little ones comfortable, what to do with siblings – it’s all in there so there are no surprises.

What If You Already Had the Baby?

First of all – welcome to the newborn stage. It’s a lot.

If you’re reading this and already holding your baby and scrambling to find a photographer, know this: there is never a wrong time to capture your newborn.

Babies under two weeks are often sleepier and easier to pose. But a four-week-old? I’ve had four-week-olds who were the best sleepers I’ve ever worked with, simply because their bellies are bigger and their sleep is deeper. The pudgier the cheeks, honestly, the better.

Reach out. I have a soft spot for newborns, and I’ll always try to work some magic to fit you in if I can.

What About Older Siblings?

If you have a toddler or older child at home, I know this might be running through your mind: will they cooperate?

Here’s my honest answer: there will be moments when they’re great, and there will be moments when they’re probably not so great. And that is completely okay.

My background is in occupational therapy, where I spent over 12 plus years working with kids in a therapy setting. One of the most important things I learned is to follow the child’s lead. Step into their world. Think about what would actually be fun for them, what would feel comfortable, and meet them there.

Sometimes that means playing a game, singing a silly song or just giving them your full, undivided attention – which, in a world full of screens and constant stimulation, can be surprisingly powerful.

The mindset you bring into a session sets the stage. If you come in with curiosity and a willingness to laugh at the unexpected moments, kids naturally want to join in. I’m not saying it’s always easy. But it’s always worth it.

Why This All Matters

Childhood doesn’t wait. This newborn stage – the tiny fingers, the sleepy stretches, the way they curl into you – it moves faster than you think it will.

You’ll never regret making the time to document it.

Newborn photography in Pittsburgh generally ranges from around $450 to over $2,000 depending on the photographer and the package. My pricing falls in the middle of that range. It includes a full digital gallery and a print credit. Why? Because I genuinely believe these images deserve to live somewhere other than a phone screen.

Ready to Reserve Your Spot?

If you’re expecting and you’re in the Pittsburgh area – including Beaver County, Cranberry Township, Wexford, or anywhere in between – I’d love to connect.

Reach out during your second trimester if you can. We’ll get your due date on the calendar, talk through your session options, and take one big thing off your plate so you can focus on the good stuff.

Get in touch at mariekphoto.com

And if you’ve already had your baby and you’re reading this in a bit of a sleep-deprived haze – reach out anyway. I’m here for it.

Newborn and Family Photography

Hey there, I am Marie! A wife and mama of three littles. Picking up my camera and freezing special stages in everyone’s lives brings a smile to my face. I would love to serve you and other families in the greater Pittsburgh, Beaver, Cranberry Township, Robinson Township and Wexford PA areas. Click here to get in touch with me! Make sure to follow along on Instagram and see the latest laughs!