Expecting a little one in Northern Virginia? 👶 As a NOVA newborn photographer serving Fairfax, Chantilly, Centreville, and Loudoun County, I’m asked all the time: “When should I book?” Short answer: Book between 30–34 weeks so we can reserve your place on the studio calendar and be ready to adjust around baby’s actual arrival.

Studio Experience · Pricing · Contact

Ideal Timing (By Due Date)

  • Reserve at 30–34 weeks. This window gives you the best choice of dates and ensures we hold a flexible spot near your due date.
  • Why early matters: Newborn sessions are typically scheduled for 7–14 days after birth (when babies are sleepiest and still curl naturally). Booking during the third trimester guarantees we can time your session in that sweet spot.
  • Flex scheduling: We tentatively place you on the calendar based on your due date and then confirm the exact session time once baby arrives.

CTA: To secure your preferred date and our most flattering newborn window, book at 30–34 weeks.

What If Baby Arrives Early or Late?

No worries—that’s normal!

  • Early arrivals: If your baby comes ahead of schedule (or spends time in the NICU), we’ll shift your session date accordingly. We can still create beautiful, safe portraits once baby is cleared for photos.
  • Late arrivals: We simply nudge the calendar forward. Many babies are photographed comfortably up to 2 weeks, with posing adjusted to baby’s alertness and comfort.
  • Twins & special circumstances: We build in extra flexibility and time buffers. Just mention details on your Contact form so we can plan the best experience.

Weekday vs. Weekend Sessions

  • Weekday sessions (best availability):

    • More options around baby’s feeding/nap rhythms
    • Quieter studio environment for a calmer, sleepier baby
    • Easier to reschedule if needed

  • Weekend sessions (limited):

    • Great for partner/sibling schedules
    • Book out faster—reservations at 30–34 weeks are especially important if you’re set on a weekend

Tip: If you’re bringing siblings, consider a weekday morning with a quick parent + siblings segment first, then one parent can take big kids home while we finish newborn-focused sets.

Rush Options (Last-Minute Bookings)

Just found us after baby arrived? Congrats—and reach out!

  • Waitlist openings: We often keep one emergency slot each week.
  • Weekday flexibility helps: You’ll have a better chance of snagging a last-minute opening Monday–Friday.
  • Simplified sets: For rush sessions, we can prioritize your favorite colors/wraps to maximize time and keep baby cozy.

👉 Check current availability via Contact, and we’ll do our best to fit you in.

What Happens After You Book?

  • Pre-session planning: We’ll confirm colors, wraps, props, and must-have shots (parents/siblings).
  • Session day game plan: Warm studio, white-noise, and baby-led posing for safety and comfort.

Quick FAQs

How long is a newborn session?
Typically an hour, allowing for feeding, burping, and soothing.

Can we include parents and siblings?
Absolutely. We’ll plan the shot list during your consult and schedule family images first.

What if baby is wide awake?
We pivot! Awake images are adorable. We’ll adjust wraps/poses to keep baby safe and content.

Ready to Secure Your Spot?

Availability is limited each month to keep sessions calm and personalized.
Best practice: Book your NOVA newborn session by 30–34 weeks.

On October 18, 2025   /   Baby, Newborn