Have you ever wondered how a newborn photoshoot captures those tiny, sleeping newborn babies in such peaceful poses? Well, the secret is in the timing. The best time to schedule a newborn photoshoot is within the first two weeks after birth. During this stage—often called the fourth trimester—babies sleep deeply, naturally curl into womb-like positions, and are more likely to stay relaxed throughout the session.
This is all because in the first two weeks newborns are still absorbing maternal melatonin while their bodies produce high levels of adenosine, a natural sleep aid. With their nervous system still developing, they spend most of their sleep in REM, the stage that fuels brain growth and keeps them extra cozy. Since their internal clocks aren’t set yet, they’re also less likely to wake from noise or movement, making this the perfect time to capture those peaceful, sleepy moments and document their tiniest details: the soft curve of their lips, the delicate wrinkles on their fingers, and those impossibly tiny toes.
Why the First Two Weeks Matter
At The Pod Photography, we love capturing these fleeting moments with an artistic and personalized touch. Within the first two weeks, babies sleep deeply and naturally curl up, making the photography experience gentle and stress-free. Their flexibility and comfort in snug poses mimic their time in the womb, resulting in the most natural-looking shots, captured effortlessly.
One recent session beautifully showcased just how precious these early days are. Wrapped in a pale green muslin cloth, complete with a matching headband adorned with a delicate flower, this little one peacefully dozed as we focused on the tiniest details that make newborn photography so special. Close-up shots highlighted her tiny toes, lips, and fingers, preserving the beauty of her newborn stage in a timeless way.
Custom Sets That Tell a Story
With babies sleeping so soundly, the first two weeks are the very best time to capture all the little details that are special to your family story. This stage is especially fun because your baby will be sound asleep and easy to pose. Soon, they’ll become more alert and wiggly, making this prime newborn photoshoot window short but perfect for capturing those dreamy shots. What makes a newborn session at The Pod Photography truly unique is our ability to create a completely customized experience, making this time extra special for every family. Our Westwood team showcased their incredible talent for artistic set building when they designed a one-of-a-kind metro station set for this session.
Public transportation is a big part of this family’s life, so we transformed the studio into a miniature transit hub, complete with a backdrop featuring the city’s wave-patterned shade cove, tiny street signs, and a miniature bench. And resting on that bench? Baby girl, dressed in an adorable skirt and denim vest, wearing tiny pink Chucks, with a tiny Starbucks cup, iPhone, and school supplies by her side. The set was a perfect homage to the Metro E Line, which runs through the USC campus, complete with the iconic USC clock tower in the background.
Bringing Personal Passions into the Session
We love incorporating details that reflect what’s meaningful to each family. In another set, The Pod Photography’s Westwood artists transported this adorable baby girl to her family’s favorite hiking spot, where she took a well-deserved rest on a picnic table before stretching out on a tiny purple yoga mat—her miniature Stanley cup and Ray-Bans by her side, of course!
These personalized setups turn newborn photography into more than just portraits; they tell a story. They capture the unique personality and story of each family. And when photographed at just the right time, they preserve the sweetest, sleepiest moments that pass by all too quickly.
Book Your Newborn Photoshoot Today
If you’re expecting and wondering when to book your newborn photoshoot, don’t wait! Those first two weeks fly by, and capturing your baby in their earliest days will give you keepsakes to treasure forever. Whether you’re drawn to simple, timeless details or a fully customized set like this one, the Westwood team at The Pod Photography is ready to bring your vision to life.
Call us at (310) 391-4500 to schedule your newborn session today! Our expert photographers serve all of greater Los Angeles and are ready to capture stunning images you’ll cherish for a lifetime.