If you’re expecting a baby and starting to think about newborn photos, you probably have a lot of questions—and you’re not alone.  As a newborn photographer serving families in El Dorado Hills, Folsom, Granite Bay and surrounding areas, I hear the same concerns from parents again and again. So I wanted to create one simple, honest guide to walk you through everything you might be wondering.

This blog post is dedicated  to the top 10 questions about newborn photography!

1. When should I book my newborn session?

The best time to book is during your second or early third trimester. This ensures availability around your due date.

Don’t worry—we don’t need baby to arrive on a specific day. I schedule sessions based on your due date and adjust once baby arrives.

2. How old should my baby be for newborn photos?

 

Traditionally, newborn sessions happen within the first 7–14 days. During this time, babies tend to be sleepier and curl up naturally.

That said—there is no “too late.” Beautiful, meaningful newborn photos can be captured at 3 weeks, 5 weeks, or beyond.

3. What if my baby won’t sleep?

 

This is one of the biggest worries I hear—and I promise, you don’t need a “perfect” baby for beautiful photos.

I follow a baby-led approach, allowing time for feeding, soothing, and breaks. Awake moments can actually create some of the most special images.

4. How long does a newborn session take?

Most sessions last between 2 hours to 2.5 hours.

This gives us time to move at your baby’s pace—no rushing, no pressure and lots of cuddling time.

5. Do I need to clean my house for an at-home session?

Nope. Not at all.

I only need a small area with good natural light. I’ll guide you on exactly where to go, and we’ll keep everything simple and relaxed.  I often will do a home walk-through before the shoot so we can perfectly plan which part of your home we will use.

6. What should we wear?

Neutral tones, soft textures, and simple outfits always photograph beautifully.

The goal is timeless, not trendy—so your images still feel beautiful years from now.

7. Can parents and siblings be included?

Absolutely—and I highly encourage it.

These photos aren’t just about your baby… they’re about your growing family. Those connection moments are often the most meaningful.

8. Can we include our dog?

Yes! Pets are part of the family, and including them can make your session even more personal and fun.

9. Is newborn photography safe?

 

Safety is always the top priority.

I use gentle posing, follow baby cues, and never force a position. Your baby’s comfort and well-being come first, always.

10. Is newborn photography worth it?

In those early weeks, everything is a blur—tiny fingers, sleepy stretches, the way your baby fits perfectly in your arms.

Photos give you a way to hold onto that season… long after it’s passed.

Final Thoughts

If you’re feeling unsure, overwhelmed, or like you don’t have everything “perfect” yet—you’re exactly where most parents are.

Newborn photography isn’t about perfection.

It’s about capturing your family, just as you are, in one of the most meaningful seasons of your life.

If you have questions, I’m always happy to discuss them with you.

Here is a helpful blog post if you are wondering if you should have your newborn shoot at home or my studio.

 

 

Susannah Gill is a professional photographer based in El Dorado Hills, California, specializing in headshots, branding, newborn, family, and pet photography.  Her studio is located in the El Dorado Hills business park.  Susannah also works on location.

If you would like to discuss a photography session, you can contact her through the website, email her at: Susannah@susannahgill.com or call/text 1-916-936-7363