Many parents worry their baby won’t “co-operate” if they’re awake during a newborn photo shoot. The truth is, most newborns have both sleepy and wakeful moments during their session, and beautiful photos are possible either way. Here’s what really happens at a newborn shoot and why your baby doesn’t need to stay asleep.

Newborn photography is best done within the first three weeks, but why is that? If you're wondering why timing is so important, this guide explains how newborns change after the early weeks and why that tiny window is perfect for capturing those beautifully sleepy, curled-up poses.