As doulas, the list of questions we’re asked is pretty endless and covers just about every topic imaginable. We’ve got you covered when it comes to pregnancy and birth support but the questions don’t stop there.

From postpartum resources to trusted referrals, families often look to us for guidance. One
topic that comes up again and again? Newborn photography. So we reached out to a local
maternity and newborn photographer to answer some of the most common questions we hear from parents.

We reached out to Lara Greenwood of Greenwood Photography, a local Boca Raton newborn photographer, to help answer a few of the most common questions we hear from our clients.
Lara has been a maternity, newborn, and family photographer for nearly 14 years and is trained in newborn posing and safety. She has even attended class right here at the Orchid Nest to refresh her infant CPR skills. Let’s see what she has to say.

When is the Best time to schedule newborn photos
Lara recommends reaching out sometime during your second trimester. It gives you the best chance of getting on their calendar, and it’s such a relief knowing it’s already taken care of before baby arrives.

When does the newborn photoshoot take place?
Traditional newborn photos are typically done when baby is between 6–16 days old. This is the sweet spot for capturing those sleepy, snuggly moments and those naturally curly poses from being tucked in mama’s belly. That said, don’t stress if you and baby aren’t quite on that timeline. Flexibility is key and an experienced newborn photographer will meet your baby exactly where they’re at.

How long does a newborn photoshoot take?
Newborn sessions usually hold a 2–4 hour window. That doesn’t mean you’ll be actively
shooting the whole time. It simply allows space for feeding, soothing, and helping baby settle into a deep sleep, which is key for those classic newborn images. Adding parents and siblings
can also extend the session slightly, and that’s expected and included in the 2-4 hour timeline.

Are parents and siblings included in newborn sessions?
Every photographer structures sessions a little differently. Some offer baby-only newborn
sessions, while others include parents and siblings as part of a full newborn session. It’s important to ask ahead of time so you understand what’s included and can choose a
photographer whose approach matches what you’re hoping for.

How to Prepare for Session Day
Your photographer should provide a session prep email or checklist to help you feel fully
prepared while also reminding you that baby is always in charge and your photographer is ready to roll with whatever the day brings. This usually includes simple tips like dressing baby in a zip-up onesie instead of snaps (easier to remove without waking them), bathing baby before heading to the studio, guidance on what parents and siblings should wear if they’ll be included, and what to bring to your session (Lara just needs baby, she handles the rest).

What is the difference between Studio Sessions and At-home Sessions
Some photographers offer newborn sessions in their studio, while others may come to your home and some do both. Studio sessions are at the photographers location and are typically more focused on those classic, posed newborn images with baby gently wrapped or positioned on simple props and neutral backdrops. The studio environment allows for controlled lighting, warmth, and comfort, which helps create that polished, timeless look.
Home lifestyle sessions tend to be more relaxed and centered around connection and bonding. These sessions capture everyday moments like cuddling on the couch, rocking in the nursery, feeding, and soaking in those early days together. The focus is less on perfect posing and more on telling the story of life with your new baby.
Both options are wonderful in different ways and choosing between them really comes down to what style and experience feels like the best fit for your family.

What is a Fresh 48 and how is it different from a newborn session?
A Fresh 48 session is a lifestyle-style photo session that takes place within the first 24–48 hours after your baby is born at the hospital or birth center. It’s all about capturing those raw, real, just-met-you moments. Tiny details, first cuddles, sleepy stretches, siblings meeting baby, and the quiet in-between moments as you soak it all in. There’s no posing, no props, and no styling… just your family exactly as you are in those first hours.
A traditional newborn session, on the other hand, typically happens when baby is around 1–3 weeks old and is more gently guided. It often includes props, cozy wraps, simple posing, and a calmer, more curated setup either in a studio or at home.

Why is the price range for newborn photography so wide?
Newborn photography is so much more than just snapping a few photos. It’s a very specialized type of photography that takes extensive training, a deep understanding of newborn safety, a whole lot of patience, and years of experience working with tiny, delicate babies. Behind the scenes, professional newborn photographers invest in education, newborn-safe equipment, studio space or fully equipped travel setups, insurance, careful editing, and thoughtful client services like consultations, image selection guidance, and artwork design.
All of that care and preparation plays a big role in thenexperience you have and the images you receive. Because every photographer structures their services differently from session time and number of images to editing, products, and level of support there isn’t one standard price.
What matters most is finding someone whose experience, style, and approach feel right for you and your family.

What is a general price range?
Pricing is generally in the $800 – $3,500+ range, especially for full-service studio experiences
with custom artwork and in-person design. These ranges reflect established professionals. Entry-level or hobbyist photographers may fall below that, while luxury full-service studios can exceed the top end, particularly when heirloom albums or wall art collections are involved. Finding the right newborn photographer can feel like one more big decision during an already busy time, and it’s completely normal to have lots of questions along the way. From our perspective, newborn photography is such a meaningful and joyful milestone to document, and choosing a skilled, experienced photographer makes all the difference. One big takeaway from Lara is this: don’t be afraid to get all of your questions answered. Your photographer wants you to feel comfortable and to have open, clear communication with you from the very beginning. When you’re in good hands, the details are taken care of so you can relax, soak in those early days, and simply enjoy your new baby.

Lara Greenwood from Greenwood Photography is an award-winning, experienced and highly rated professional photographer. Based in Coral Springs, Lara specializes in on-location and in-studio maternity, newborn, and family photography. With 13+ years of experience and dozens
of 5 star reviews, she is known for her warm, organic and relaxed style. Her work has been featured in multiple online publications and she is a member of the National Association of Portrait and Child Photographers.