The Importance of Taking Your Time with Newborn Photography

When I was pregnant with my first daughter in 2018, newborn photos weren’t something I gave much thought to. Like many first-time mums, I was focused on getting through pregnancy, birth, and the unknowns of becoming a mum.

A few hours after I gave birth, while still on the ward, a photographer approached me and asked if I’d like newborn photos.

I panicked.

Not because I didn’t want them — but because I suddenly knew how important they were. I knew I would want these photos to look back on, to treasure, to remember just how tiny she once was.

But I had just given birth.

I was exhausted. Swollen. Emotional. Uncomfortable. I didn’t feel like myself at all — and the thought of being in front of a camera felt overwhelming. So I said yes to photos of my baby… but no to photos of me with her.

And now, years later, that choice still makes me sad.

I don’t have photos of myself as her mum in those very first days. No images of me holding her as a tiny newborn. No photos of us together at the beginning of our story.

What I Wish I’d Known Then

Now, as a photographer and as a mum,I know something I didn’t back then:

There is no rush.

Newborns don’t stop being newborns overnight. Those tiny fingers, curled toes, sleepy stretches, and soft features are still there days — even weeks — later.

If I had known what I know now, I would have given myself time.

Time to recover.Time to settle into motherhood.Time to feel a little more like me again.

Maybe I would’ve had my hair done. Maybe not. But I would’ve waited until I felt confident enough to say, “Yes — I want to be in these photos with my baby.”

A Gentle Reminder for Expectant Mamas

If you’re pregnant and thinking about newborn photos, please hear this:

You matter too.

Your comfort matters.

Your confidence matters.

You don’t need to stress about timings or panic about booking photos immediately after birth. You don’t need to show up exhausted, overwhelmed, or before you’re ready.

Your baby will still be a newborn.The moments will still be just as meaningful.And you deserve to be in those photos feeling present — not pressured.

Why I Photograph Newborns the Way I Do

This experience shaped me, not just as a mum, but as a photographer.

I create newborn sessions that are:

Calm and unhurried

Flexible to suit you

Focused on connection, not perfection

Whether that’s a few days after birth or once you’ve had time to recover, settle, and breathe — your story deserves to be documented in a way that feels right for you.

Because one day, you’ll look back — and you’ll want to see yourself there too.

To the Mamas Reading This

Don’t rush.

Don’t panic.

And don’t forget yourself in the process.

You are just as much a part of these memories as your baby.

Chantel Jane Photography x