The final stretch of pregnancy has a way of filling your mind with lists, plans, and decisions you didn’t even know you’d need to make.

Somewhere in between choosing the right stroller and packing the hospital bag, many parents start thinking about maternity and newborn photography, often with a whole new list of questions and a sense that they might have left it a bit too late!

This guide walks you through the most common questions, so you can feel more prepared and confident if it's something you're considering.

When should you book a newborn session?

One of the most frequent questions is TIMING. Ideally, you’d book during pregnancy, once you have your due date.

Newborn sessions are usually held within the first 5 -14 days after birth. During this window, babies tend to be sleepier and naturally 'curled up', which makes it easier to capture those soft, early moments. Because that timeframe is quite short, many photographers only take on a limited number of due dates each month, so booking in advance helps secure your place.

What if your baby arrives early or late?

This is really nothing to stress about. Sessions are typically pencilled in based on your due date and then adjusted once your baby arrives. Flexibility is a big part of newborn photography, and any experienced photographer will work around your baby’s timing and your recovery.

What actually happens during a newborn session?

An experienced newborn photographer will make sure the session is calm, slow-paced, and entirely baby-led.

There’s plenty of time built in for feeding, settling, and cuddles. There shouldn’t be any pressure for your baby to sleep or fit into specific poses. The focus is on comfort and safety, with everything else following naturally from there.

The environment is usually kept warm and quiet, helping your baby feel settled. Clean wraps, gentle handling, and patience are all part of the process!

Family and sibling photos are often included too, and approached in a relaxed way so everyone feels at ease rather than rushed.

Studio or at home?

Both options can work beautifully, and it really comes down to what feels easier for you.

A studio offers a controlled, quiet space with any props at hand and everything ready to go. At-home sessions, on the other hand, can feel more personal and convenient, especially in those early days when leaving the house feels like a military operation.

The experience itself should feel calm and unhurried in either setting.

What should you prepare?

Nikki from Shotsbynikk, a specialised family & milestone photographer based in Malta, shares her thoughts on this - "Very little, which is often a relief for new parents! I always guide clients beforehand, and support them all the way. My general rule is that simple works best. Neutral tones, soft textures, and comfortable clothing help keep the focus on your baby and your connection as a family. Good photographers will have a selection of props and styling aids and provide clothing options as well. One key takeaway is that there's no need for anything overly styled or complicated!"

Letting go of expectations

This is often the biggest shift for parents.

Every baby is different. Some will sleep through most of the session, others will be wide-eyed and curious. Both are completely OK, and both result in beautiful images. In fact, some of the most meaningful photos come from those awake moments, little expressions, stretches, and the way your baby naturally interacts with you.

The goal isn’t perfection. It’s capturing your baby exactly as they are, in those fleeting early days.

What about maternity sessions?

Maternity sessions are usually done between 28 - 34 weeks of pregnancy, when your bump is clearly visible but you’re still relatively comfortable.

They’re less about posing and more about capturing the feeling of this stage, the anticipation, the connection with your unborn baby, and everything that comes with it. Sessions can take place outdoors or in a studio, depending on what you feel suits you best.

Again, simplicity tends to work beautifully here. Soft lighting, neutral tones, and minimal styling help keep the images timeless rather than trend-led. Your photographer will be guiding you from the preparation stage to the final snaps and will make sure you're at ease, even if you have zero experience with being in front of the camera!

Final thoughts

Every family, every pregnancy, and every baby is different. Understanding what to expect from a maternity or newborn session can take away a lot of the uncertainty and help you actually enjoy the experience.

If you’re considering booking, it’s worth planning ahead and choosing a photographer whose approach feels calm, flexible, and centred around your baby.

For parents in Malta looking for an experienced professional specialised in both maternity and newborn sessions, Nikki at Shotsbynikk offers pregnancy shoots that bring out the best of you, and gentle, baby-led sessions for your newborn -  she's always happy to guide you through the process so you know exactly what to expect and can enjoy the moment together as a family.

Capture your family’s most meaningful moments with photography sessions at Shotsbynikk, designed to preserve every special milestone - from gender reveals and maternity to newborn, baptisms, birthdays, and celebrations.

Stay connected: Follow Shotsbynikk on Facebook or Instagram for updates.

For bookings or enquiries, contact Nikki on Whatsapp +356 79597375, social media platforms or via email [email protected]