If you're expecting, one of the most common questions I hear is:

"How long do newborn photos take?"

One of the most common questions I hear from expecting parents is:

"How long do newborn photos take?"

The answer depends on the type of session you choose, but most newborn photography sessions last between 45 and 90 minutes.

Every baby is different, so while I always have a plan, I also allow time for feeding, diaper changes, soothing, and cuddles if needed. The goal is never to rush—it’s to create a relaxed experience that results in beautiful, timeless images you'll treasure for years.

If you're looking for a Lansing newborn photographer, here's what you can expect from each type of session I offer.

Newborn Mini Session (Up to 45 Minutes)

A newborn mini session is perfect for parents who want beautiful portraits of their baby in a shorter session.

These sessions include:

• Two wrapped baby-led setups
• Baby-only portraits
• Five edited digital images

Because babies remain comfortably swaddled throughout the session, mini sessions move efficiently while still capturing those tiny details you'll never want to forget.

Lifestyle Newborn Mini Session (About 45 Minutes)

A lifestyle newborn mini session focuses on the connection between your growing family.

These sessions are ideal if your priority is capturing genuine moments together while still including a few simple baby portraits.

Your session may include:

• Family photographs
• Individual photos with each parent
• Sibling photos
• A few wrapped newborn portraits

Rather than multiple posed setups, lifestyle sessions emphasize natural interaction—snuggling your new baby, soaking in those first days together, and documenting your family's newest chapter.

If older siblings are joining us, I typically begin with the family photos while they're still excited to participate before moving into the baby-focused images.

Full Newborn Session (Up to 90 Minutes)

A full newborn session gives us more time to create a larger variety of images.

These sessions include:

• Wrapped and unwrapped newborn portraits
• Family photos
• Parent portraits
• Sibling photos
• Multiple baby-led setups
• Fifteen edited digital images

Because we aren't watching the clock, we can slow down, let baby settle naturally, and capture a beautiful mix of family and baby portraits without feeling rushed.

Why Does a Newborn Session Take Longer Than Other Photo Sessions?

Unlike older children, newborns set the pace.

During your session, we may stop to:

• Feed your baby
• Change a diaper
• Calm fussiness
• Re-swaddle
• Simply give your little one time to settle

These pauses are completely normal and are already built into your session time.

Many parents tell me afterward how relaxing the experience felt because there was never any pressure to hurry.

What If My Baby Doesn't Sleep?

Don't worry!

This is probably the biggest concern parents have before their newborn session.

While sleepy newborn photos are wonderful, babies don't have to sleep the entire time to create beautiful images.

Awake babies often give us sweet stretches, tiny yawns, curious expressions, and bright little eyes that parents end up loving just as much.

With years of experience photographing newborns, I've learned how to gently work with babies whether they're sleeping, awake, or somewhere in between.

How Can You Help Your Session Go Smoothly?

A few simple things can make your newborn photography session even easier:

• Feed your baby just before arriving if possible.
• Dress baby in loose, easy-to-remove clothing.
• Bring extra diapers, wipes, and bottles if needed.
• If you can, try to keep baby awake for a little while before leaving home.

Most importantly, don't stress if everything doesn't go perfectly.

Babies are wonderfully unpredictable, and that's exactly why every session is baby-led.

When Should You Schedule Newborn Photos?

It's best to book your session in the SECOND TRIMESTER  and then the session takes place usually between 5 and 14 days after birth.

During those first two weeks, babies tend to:

• Sleep more soundly
• Curl naturally into newborn poses
• Be easier to soothe between poses

Since babies rarely arrive exactly on their due date, I recommend booking your newborn session during your second trimester.

I reserve a limited number of due dates each month so I can adjust your session once your baby arrives.

A Relaxed Experience for Lansing Families

My cozy home studio in Laingsburg was designed specifically for newborn photography and serves families throughout Lansing, East Lansing, Okemos, DeWitt, Haslett, Williamston, and surrounding Mid-Michigan communities.

Everything is prepared before you arrive—from wraps and blankets to props and backdrops—so you can simply relax and enjoy this special season with your newest family member.

Ready to Reserve Your Due Date?

If you're expecting and looking for a Lansing newborn photographer, it's never too early to reserve your session.

Most families book during the second trimester to ensure availability, and I'll schedule your session once your baby makes their arrival.

→ Check Newborn Availability ←