How many days after birth should you take newborn photos? Prepare during pregnancy so you don't regret not taking them
"I'll never be able to see those tiny palms again..."
Ms. R (31), who is raising a 2-year-old son, spoke this through tears.
In fact, there are mothers who regret not taking newborn photos.
A recent survey revealed that this figure is as high as 30% (27.4%) of the total .
On the other hand, the satisfaction rate among the mothers who took the photos was 97.2% .
Why does this enormous difference occur?
The answer is knowledge, preparation, and timing.
The newborn period is a short miracle of just 28 days
・The soft fetal pose can be seen until 14 days after birth
・Mental preparation during pregnancy determines 90% of success
If you give birth without knowing these important things,
You will have feelings that you can never get back.
But it's okay.
In this article, under the supervision of a midwife,
"How to leave your love for your child in the best possible way"
We provide a complete explanation with heartwarming personal stories and the voices of 1,200 experienced mothers.
Your precious baby
An irreplaceable moment
Would you like to keep it as a lifelong treasure?
30% of moms regret not taking photos and share their sad feelings
"I want to hold those tiny limbs again" - 75.8% of respondents expressed the pain and sense of loss they felt
"My newborn daughter's hand was the size of my thumbnail."
That's what Mr. K (28 years old, Yokohama City) recalls.
"That translucent skin, those tiny soles of your feet like cherry blossom petals...
Just thinking about it now makes my chest ache.
Why didn't I take a photo of it then?"
K's thoughts are by no means unique.
According to the latest nationwide survey (1,247 people),
27.4% of moms who didn't take newborn photos feel deep regret .
What is particularly poignant is the number one reason for regret.
"I will never see my newborn baby again" (75.8%)
Why do so many moms suffer from loss?
The answer lies in how a mother's mind works.
Immediately after birth, the love hormone oxytocin is secreted at 15 times the normal rate.
The memories and emotions of this time are engraved in our hearts as precious treasures that will never fade.
Furthermore, the special nature of the newborn period also plays a role.
Only during the first 28 days of life can a baby maintain a round fetal position, sleep for 20 hours, and have clear skin.
These are literally "miracles that can only be seen now."
The path to beautiful photos depends on your preparations during pregnancy!
A complete guide to mental preparation and newborn photography starting from 28 weeks pregnant
"There's no way I could have prepared myself for postpartum."
This is a phrase that many moms who have given up on taking photos say.
In reality, the postpartum period is much more hectic than you might imagine.
Breastfeeding every three hours, unfamiliar diaper changes, and fatigue from lack of sleep.
Would you be able to calmly choose a photographer in this situation?
That's why mental preparation during pregnancy determines 90% of success .
Looking at the common patterns of successful moms,
We act gently during the important period of preparation between 28 and 32 weeks of pregnancy .
[28th to 30th week: Information gathering period]
This is the time when morning sickness subsides and your physical condition stabilizes.
Casually research 5-10 photographers and check out the vibe and feel of their work.
[31st to 32nd week: Time to decide on your partner]
Narrow down the candidates to three and talk to them in person (online is fine too).
We asked them about their experience photographing newborns, their feelings towards babies, and what to do in an emergency.
[33rd to 36th week: Time to decide in detail]
Final confirmation of the shooting plan, fees, and any changes that may occur.
Count back from your due date and quietly tentatively reserve several possible dates.
With this preparation, you can get by even in the midst of the hectic postpartum period.
This creates a sense of security that "the preparations are complete."
This allows you to take the photo at the ideal time.
When is the best time to take the cutest photo?
5 days vs 10 days vs 14 days vs 21 days after birth: A precious time when you can do fluffy poses
"He looked like a completely different child at 7 days old than he did at 14 days old."
These are the words of Mr. M, who photographed his two children at different times.
In fact, a newborn's facial expression and posture change rapidly over the course of a week.
Based on your doctor's knowledge, we will introduce the best time to have the scan.
[5-7 days after birth: Memory period in the womb]
This is the time when memories of being in the womb are most vivid.
Their limbs naturally curl up, providing a fluffy sleep for over 20 hours.
The translucent skin covered in vernix creates a mysterious beauty.
[8-14 days after birth: The golden period for newborns]
The shooting period most recommended by professionals.
While maintaining a fetal pose, the figure looks a little plump and adorable.
This is a special time when you can see angelic, unconscious smiles.
[15-21 days after birth: The beginning of change]
The movements of the arms and legs begin to become more active, and the amount of time spent awake gradually increases.
It is possible to take photos in a swaddling cloth, but the fetal appearance will be diminished.
[22-28 days after birth: End of the neonatal period]
They will have more time to be awake and stretch their arms and legs.
Their facial features also change to look more like a baby's, and they lose the mysteriousness that is unique to newborns.
Doctors say the best time is between 8 and 14 days after birth .
But the most important thing is the health of the mother and baby.
The day I felt like I could shoot without forcing myself,
This is the best time for you and your child.
What's the difference between 97% satisfied moms and the 27% who regret it?
We asked 1,200 experienced moms! Secrets to success and failure patterns to avoid
"Why is my outcome so different from my friends who gave birth at the same time?"
Many mothers have this question.
After actually speaking in detail to 1,200 experienced mothers,
There was a clear difference between the successful and unsuccessful groups.
[What 97% of successful people have in common]
✅ Gather information about newborn photography during pregnancy
✅ Carefully select a provider and make a tentative reservation before giving birth
✅ Understand the important fact that the newborn period is only 28 days
✅ I was able to share my feelings with my partner
✅ The budget was secured in advance
Successful mom A (33 years old) shares her experience:
"When I was eight months pregnant, I saw a friend's newborn photo and was moved.
I immediately started gathering information and had friendly conversations with three photographers.
Things were hectic after giving birth, but thanks to advance preparation,
We were able to take some wonderful photos on the 10th day after birth."
[Common pattern of 27% of failures]
❌ Putting it off, thinking, "I'll think about it after the baby is born"
❌ I underestimated the shortness of the newborn period
❌ I didn't anticipate how difficult postpartum would be.
❌ Lack of communication with your partner
❌ I didn't think about the budget
The honest thoughts of Ms. B (26 years old), a failed mom:
"I thought, 'I'll think about it after the baby is born.
But after giving birth, I had to wake up every two hours to breastfeed, so it was really hard to take photos...
Before I knew it, he was one month old. It was too late."
The decisive factor behind this difference is the timing of information and preparation .
All successful moms had lovingly prepared themselves during pregnancy.
It's okay even if your baby has passed the newborn stage!
Photography ideas and methods to keep your photos looking beautiful even after a month has passed
"He's already 5 weeks old...does that mean I have to give up on newborn photos?"
To all the moms out there who feel so down.
In fact, it's never too late.
It's true that traditional newborn poses may be difficult, but
There is a special cuteness that can only be captured at this time of year.
[The appeal of 1-2 months old]
✅ Eyes wide open, gazing at mommy with a sweet expression
✅ Starts making cute sounds like "ahh" and "uhh"
✅ The neck is a little more stable, allowing for more shooting options
✅ A period of change from an angelic smile to a conscious smile
The actual experience of Mr. C (30 years old), who photographed his baby at 6 weeks old:
"I was disappointed to miss the newborn stage,
The photographer told me, "The richness of your facial expressions at this time of year is wonderful."
When I took the photo, I was really moved by the way my son looked at me intently."
[Awesome alternative photography style]
• Natural baby photos (warm scenes of everyday breastfeeding and care)
• Family photo (a heartwarming commemorative photo of the whole family)
• Monthly photo (gently record your monthly growth)
• Baby milestones (moments of development such as sitting up and rolling over)
[A great combination with the 100th day anniversary]
If the baby is 3-4 months old, it is a good idea to celebrate the first meal or the 100th day.
It can also be filmed as an "adorable story of growing up."
Newborn photos (even if taken by the mother) and current photos
When combined, you can create richer, warmer records.
What's important is the feeling of "I want to love my child as he is now."
Each age has its own special cuteness that is unique to that time.
A photoshoot that can be easily carried out even with postpartum fatigue
How to enjoy yourself safely even when you're sleep-deprived, breastfeeding, or after a C-section
"I want to take photos, but I'm embarrassed to be in the photos because my body is so worn out..."
This is a concern that many mothers have after giving birth.
But don't worry. Experienced photographers
I truly understand your mom's situation.
[For mothers within the last two weeks after giving birth]
• Recording time is easily reduced to a maximum of 1 hour
• Mostly comfortable shooting while sitting on the bed
• Ensure frequent breaks and adequate time for changing diapers and feeding.
• Mom's face is beautiful even just from the back or hands.
[Plan for mothers after Cesarean section]
• No need to stand up for the photo pose
• Carefully consider your posture to avoid putting strain on the wound
• Gently adjust timing to match pain medication intake
• In case of an emergency, stop filming immediately.
Experience of Ms. D (29 years old) photographed after a C-section:
"One week after the surgery, I thought, 'How can I film?'
The photographer took the photos entirely in bed.
Even the photo of just my hands holding my daughter is a treasure to my heart when I look at it now."
[Filming techniques to combat sleep deprivation]
• Shooting in natural light makes tired expressions look beautiful
• Minimal makeup and natural beauty are important
• Aim for a calm and gentle expression immediately after breastfeeding
• Choose the time of day when mom feels most relaxed
[Criteria for prioritizing health]
✅ Can sit for more than an hour
✅ Baby's feeding intervals are consistent
✅ No special medical precautions required
✅ Mommy feels like "Today is okay"
A good photographer prioritizes not overdoing it.
It warmly adapts to the situation of mother and baby.
There is absolutely no need to give up just because you are worried about your health.
Which is better: home, travel or studio?
Choosing the best photography style that takes into consideration the baby's safety and the burden on the mother
"Which is better for my child, home or studio?"
This choice is an important point that directly affects the burden on the baby and mother.
Let's carefully compare the advantages and disadvantages of each.
[Home visit photography]
✅ Benefits: No stress from travelling, maintain your normal daily routine
✅ Perfect environment for breastfeeding and changing diapers
✅ The most relaxing environment for moms
Disadvantages: Dependent on natural light conditions
❌ Backgrounds and accessories are limited
[Studio photography]
✅ Pros: Professional lighting and a wide variety of beautiful backgrounds
✅ Perfect temperature and humidity control
✅ Top quality photos
Disadvantages: Traveling can tire your baby out
❌ Stress in an unfamiliar environment
[Photographed inside the maternity hospital]
✅ Benefits: Safest medical environment
✅ Can be photographed shortly after birth
✅ Strong support from medical staff
❌ Disadvantages: Limited facilities available
❌ Restrictions on shooting time and content
[Recommendations for different mom situations]
**Home visits are best:**
• Had a Caesarean section or problems during childbirth
• I have an older child and need to keep an eye on him/her.
• Babies are sensitive to changes in the environment
• Feeling anxious about traveling
**Studio is best:**
• Photo quality is your top priority
• There is no suitable space for photography at home
• I want to have a special photo shoot experience
• Located in a location that minimizes travel burden
Mr. E (32 years old), who actually chose to shoot at home:
“Because we had twins, moving was out of the question.
At home, breastfeeding and changing diapers are easy.
The babies were also able to relax during the shoot."
Whatever you choose, your love for your child will remain the same.
The most important thing is to make a choice that makes you feel safe.
👉Shooting plans to suit your budget
Plan guide for different budgets, from 20,000 yen to 80,000 yen!
A senior mom explains the price differences and how to choose the best value for money
"Why does the price of newborn photography vary so much?"
In fact, prices vary from 20,000 yen to 150,000 yen.
But if you choose based on price alone, you may end up regretting it.
[20,000 to 30,000 yen range: trial price range]
• Shooting time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
• Data delivery: 10-20 sheets
• Costumes and accessories: bring your own or keep it simple
• Experience: Part-time level, newborn photography may be unfamiliar
• Risk: There are cases where filming ends when the baby starts crying.
[50,000 to 70,000 yen range: reliable quality price range]
• Shooting time: 1.5-2 hours (at your leisure)
• Data delivery: 30-50 sheets
• Costumes and accessories: A wide variety of cute costumes and accessories available
• Experience: Specialized knowledge and skills in newborn photography
• Safety: Baby safety comes first
[80,000 to 120,000 yen class: Premium price range]
• Shooting time: 2-3 hours (fully custom-made)
• Data delivery: 50+ images + wonderful album production
• Assistants: Two people, safety first
• Benefits: Childcare consultations, discounts on future growth record photography, etc.
Beware of hidden costs
❌ Transportation costs not included (starting from 5,000 yen)
❌ Extension fee (starting from 5,000 yen per 30 minutes)
❌ Data transfer fee
❌ Additional retouching fee
❌ Album production costs (separately 30,000-50,000 yen)
[Smart Mom's Budget Strategy]
**The best value for money is in the 50,000 to 70,000 yen range**
The best balance between safety and quality
Many experienced mothers have responded that they are satisfied with this price range.
**Budget Tips:**
• 20% discount for weekday shoots
• Early booking discounts available for pregnant women
• Discount set with shrine visit
• Take advantage of referral discounts
Mr. F (27 years old), who actually spent 60,000 yen on a photoshoot:
"At first, I considered a 30,000 yen plan,
I was worried after hearing about your experience photographing newborns.
In the end, it was a great decision to hire a professional for 60,000 yen."
The most important thing is, "I can trust this person with my precious child."
Whether you can truly believe this.
Choose one that values trust over price.
Safety-first photography techniques to protect your baby
Tips for choosing a reliable photographer and avoiding risky poses
"I see those cute cheek-resting poses on social media... I want my child to try it too."
wait a minute.
This pose can actually be life-threatening for your baby.
[Absolutely no-no dangerous poses]
**❌ Face down pose**
There is a risk of suffocation for newborns who cannot hold their heads up.
Even professionals do not do this alone, but often create it using a "composite photograph."
**❌ Shooting at high altitudes**
Poses where there is a risk of falling, such as on top of a basket or chair.
**❌ Posing in an awkward position**
A position that puts strain on the baby's joints and breathing.
How to identify a trustworthy professional
**✅ Reassuring Statement:**
• "Baby safety is our number one priority."
• "We don't allow dangerous poses."
• "An assistant is always available to help."
• "The shoot will be at the baby's pace."
**❌ Caution Statement:**
• "You can do any pose."
• "Shoot efficiently and quickly."
• "Even if you cry, we'll keep filming."
• Don't reveal your years of experience photographing newborns
[Safety checkpoints during filming]
✅ Always have an adult's hand gently supporting the baby
✅ The room temperature is maintained at a comfortable 28 degrees.
✅ Always lovingly observe your baby's facial expressions and breathing
✅ Take a break every 20 minutes
✅ Consideration is given to mom's fatigue level
[Mom's Emergency Response Authority]
If you feel even a little anxious during the shoot
You have the right to say "stop."
• Your baby looks tired
• Being asked to do poses that I felt were dangerous
• The photographer appears to be in a hurry.
• The room temperature is not correct
Mr. G (31 years old) chose a safe photographer:
"In advance consultation, I was told, 'I will never do any dangerous poses.'
I was relieved that he said it so clearly.
On the day, she was always concerned about my daughter's condition,
I was able to leave the shoot to them with peace of mind."
Only a mother can keep her child safe.
Don't be shy. If you're a really good photographer,
Your baby will surely treasure his or her words "wait" more than anything else.
👉Seasonal photography environment
Creating the best shooting environment for each season
How to create the cutest space for your baby by adjusting the room temperature and lighting
"I'm worried about my baby being born in winter and the room being too dry because of the heating..."
The shooting environment changes significantly depending on the season.
We will gently explain optimization techniques for each age and season.
[Spring birth (March to May)]
✅ Natural light: The soft light makes it the best season for photography.
✅ Room temperature: Maintains a natural temperature of 28°C without the need for air conditioning
⚠️ Caution: Please be careful when opening and closing windows to protect against pollen.
💡 Tip: The light is most beautiful between 10am and 12pm
[Born in summer (June to August)]
✅ Natural light: Capture bright, vibrant photos
⚠️ Caution: Be careful not to let the air conditioner get too cold
⚠️ Humidity: Keep below 60% to protect your baby's skin
💡 Tip: Control the light with lace curtains
[Born in Autumn (September to November)]
✅ Natural light: Beautiful warm light quality
✅ Room temperature: 28 degrees, easily adjustable with heating
⚠️ Caution: Beware of sudden temperature changes
💡 Tip: Afternoon light is especially beautiful
[Winter birth (December to February)]
⚠️ Challenges: Poor natural light and drying due to heating
✅ Solution: Use a humidifier to gently maintain humidity at 50-60%
✅ Lighting: Professional lighting if needed
💡 Tip: Use a window and a reflector to enhance the light
[Doctor's Knowledge: Why is room temperature 28 degrees?]
Newborns' thermoregulation function is still immature.
The ratio of body weight to body surface area is three times that of an adult.
Especially in newborn photos, there are many naked or lightly dressed people,
A temperature of around 28 degrees is considered medically optimal.
[The importance of humidity control]
• Below 50%: Dry skin, strain on the respiratory system
• 50-60%: Optimal range, leaves skin moist and beautiful
• 60% or more: Risk of mold and bacteria growth
[Professional techniques for utilizing natural light]
• Avoid direct sunlight and use soft light through lace curtains.
• Best to place it 1-2 meters away from a window
• Use a white wall or reflector to bounce light off your face and brighten it up.
• The light is fresh in the morning and warmer in the afternoon.
Photo taken in winter by Mr. H (34 years old):
"I was born in December and was worried about the light,
I ran the humidifier at full power and stuck white cloth on the wall to reflect the light.
The photographer also said it was a perfect environment."
No matter the season, your baby's comfort is our top priority.
If the environment is right, you can take beautiful photos in any season.
💡Success stories from senior moms
How to preserve and enjoy photos that will become lifelong treasures
How to preserve memories that will last for 20 years, looking back on them as they grow
"It would be a waste to just leave these beautiful photos on your smartphone!"
Filming is not the end, it's the beginning.
We will teach you how to preserve and use your items to make them lifelong treasures.
[Important rules for digital preservation]
**3-2-1 Rule:**
• Save in 3 locations (PC, cloud, external HDD)
• Two types of media (e.g. SSD and cloud)
• One location is physically separate (cloud recommended)
**Recommended cloud services:**
• Google Photos: Unlimited storage (high quality)
• iCloud: Excellent integration with Apple products
• Amazon Photos: Unlimited for Prime members
• Dropbox: Excellent sharing features
[Great use in conjunction with growth records]
**Monthly Photo Linkage:**
Starting with newborn photos, we take photos in the same poses every month.
When you compare them in a year, you'll be amazed at the miracle of growth.
**New Year's card use:**
A newborn photo is the best New Year's card for the year you were born.
The reaction from relatives is exceptional and it strengthens the bonds between family members.
**Birthday Album:**
Every year on his birthday, the best photos of the year are displayed alongside newborn photos.
Children are also impressed by how small it was.
[An evolved version of the family album]
**Digital photo frame usage:**
It is set up in the living room and displays a slideshow of family photos, including newborn photos.
It's also perfect for starting a conversation when guests come over.
**Photobook creation:**
Once a year, we create a photo book with the best photos of the year.
It is effective to place newborn photos on the cover or first page.
**Using smartphone apps:**
• "Mitene": Ideal for sharing with family members
• "Photos": Automatically create albums
• "Nohana": Free photo book every month
[Preservation strategy looking 20 years into the future]
**Gift campaign for children:**
• Coming-of-Age Ceremony: A growth album from newborn photos to the Coming-of-Age Ceremony
• Wedding: A symbol of love from parents to their children
• At birth: “You were so small too,” comparing you to your grandchild.
**Data format notes:**
• JPEG: General, can be opened anywhere
• RAW: High quality but requires specialized software
• TIFF: High quality and versatile (recommended)
Mr. I (36 years old), who practices long-term storage:
"I've looked back at my son's newborn photos every year on his birthday for the past five years.
Now my son even requests to see me as a baby.
It's a precious time for the family."
Taking a photo is not the end of it.
Every time you look back, your love is rekindled and your family ties are strengthened.
Use it as a treasure for life.
👉Success and failure stories of senior moms
💡Review basic knowledge to avoid regrets
Real voices and experiences of 1,000 experienced moms
"I'm glad I did it" "I wish I'd known about it sooner" - the true secrets to success
"I wish I'd known this information sooner!"
We bring you the real voices of 1,000 experienced mothers.
Learn the secrets to success and how to avoid failure through real-life experiences.
[Top 5 things successful moms are glad they did]
**1st place: Early preparation during pregnancy (86%)**
"I decided on a company when I was eight months pregnant. After giving birth, I was really busy, so
I'm really glad I prepared in advance." (J, 30 years old)
**2nd place: Interviews with multiple companies (74%)**
"Talk to three people and choose the one you trust most.
The price was mid-range, but the sense of security was completely different." (K, 28 years old)
**3rd place: Home visit (68%)**
"No need to move, so both baby and mom can relax.
There are natural expressions that could only be captured in a normal environment." (L, 32 years old)
**4th place: Family photo shoots (61%)**
"At first, we were only planning on having a baby,
It was a great idea to have our family photos taken. I'm still moved when I look at them now." (Ms. M, 29 years old)
5. Album production (58%)
"Not only data but also albums are created.
When you can actually see and hold it in your hands, the impression is multiplied." (N, 31 years old)
[Top 5 regrets moms don't know]
1st place: Short neonatal period (92%)
"I didn't know it was only for 28 days. I thought it would be okay after my one-month checkup..."
(Mr. O, 26 years old)
**2nd place: Fetal pose deadline (87%)**
"Once they're two weeks old, they can't hold that rounded position anymore."
(Mr. P, 33 years old)
**3rd place: Postpartum physical exhaustion (81%)**
"I didn't realize it would be this tiring. I didn't have the energy to prepare."
(Mr. Q, 27 years old)
**4th place: Price perception (76%)**
"I made a mistake by choosing it based solely on price. I was inexperienced and almost ended up doing dangerous poses."
(Mr. R, 35 years old)
5. Seasonal Difficulty (71%)
"I didn't realize it would be difficult to shoot if I was born in winter. Creating the environment was difficult."
(Mr. S, 24 years old)
[Professional techniques to teach you faster]
**🔥 Tip 1: The best time to take photos is right after breastfeeding**
"A full, sleepy baby looks the most calm."
**🔥 Tip 2: Keep the room temperature at a level that adults find hot**
"28 degrees is too hot for an adult, but it's the perfect temperature for a naked baby."
**🔥 Tip 3: Make sure moms wear comfortable clothing for breastfeeding**
"Breastfeeding during filming is a daily occurrence. Open-front clothing is best."
**🔥 Tip 4: Have your older child be your "helper" during the photo shoot**
"By giving them a role, they become collaborators, not obstacles."
**🔥 Tip 5: If you get tired, take a break.**
"A good photographer appreciates breaks. Don't push yourself too hard."
[Finally: A message of love from a senior mom]
“To any moms out there who are unsure, definitely take the shot.
Please leave some nice photos for us who regret it."
(Regret Group Representative, Mr. T, 29 years old)
"The newborn period is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You are lucky to have come across this article.
Please take action and get the best treasures possible."
(Successful group representative, Mr. U, 34 years old)
Inheriting the experience and wisdom of 1,000 senior mothers,
You too will be guaranteed to be part of the successful group with a 97% satisfaction rate.
Take action now and show your love for your child
Please leave it in the best possible form.
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