The Best Time and Locations for Newborn Photos in Wausau Wisconsin
Welcoming a new baby into the world is one of life’s most precious moments, and capturing those early days is something you’ll never regret. As a Wausau newborn photographer, one of the questions I’m asked most often is: “When is the best time to book newborn photos, and where should we do them?”
The good news? You have options. And even better news? I’m here to make the entire experience easy, relaxing, and meaningful for your family.
Below is everything you need to know about choosing the right timing, the best location, and what to expect from your session.
When Is the Best Time for Newborn Photos?
The sweet spot: 2–14 days old
This window tends to be perfect for newborn photos because babies are extra snuggly, sleepy, and curled up; making those timeless newborn images effortless and natural. We can also capture those details that are distinctly newborn features and characteristics that tend to change by around the 1 month mark.
But here’s the thing I want all parents to hear: there’s no wrong time to capture your baby. Whether your little one is two weeks or two months old, I document them exactly as they are: with authenticity, connection, and love.
Book early to secure your date
Most families book during the second or third trimester so they can reserve their spot. Since babies come on their own timeline, your session date is flexible. I leave room in my calendar in case we need to adjust our date based on when they arrive. Once your little one arrives, we touch base and evaluate if our original date still works or if we need to shift it slightly. We find the perfect day and time.
Why In-Home Newborn Sessions Are My Favorite (and Why Parents Love Them Too)
While outdoor and studio sessions can be beautiful, nothing compares to the comfort, meaning, and ease of photographing your newborn right at home.
Here’s why in-home newborn photography is ideal:
1. No packing or rushing out the door
You don’t have to load the diaper bag, remember extras, wake a sleeping baby, or worry about the weather. You simply stay home and let me come to you.
2. Your home becomes part of your family’s story
I document the place you brought your baby home to; the nursery, your cozy living room, the rocking chair where you’ve spent hours bonding, the quiet corners that hold so much emotion. These are the priceless memories you’ll want to remember.
3. A calm and flexible environment
At-home newborn sessions move at baby’s pace, not a clock.
I never put a strict time limit on newborn sessions. Babies need breaks for feeding, changing, cuddling, and settling, and that’s completely normal. I typically plan for 1.5–2.5 hours, but there is always time and space for whatever baby needs.
4. The perfect lighting, no matter the weather
Rain, snow, clouds? Doesn’t matter.
Wausau weather can be unpredictable, but in-home sessions allow for soft, beautiful lighting year-round. I help you choose the best spaces in your home, usually using rooms with natural light.
5. Late morning or early afternoon is ideal
These times usually offer the best lighting and match a newborn’s natural rhythms. Your home feels quiet, warm, and peaceful; which creates the best atmosphere for stunning images.
What About Outdoor Newborn Photos?
Outdoor newborn photos can be gorgeous, especially during Wausau’s warm summer months, but they require ideal weather and careful timing. Outdoor settings like Rib Mountain State Park, Eau Claire Dells, or a quiet field at golden hour can work beautifully when the weather cooperates.
However, for most families, in-home sessions offer the safest, smoothest, and most enjoyable experience; especially with a very new baby.
How to Make Your Newborn Session Smooth and Stress-Free
I guide you through everything from preparation to outfit suggestions to calming your baby. A few things I do to make your session relaxed and enjoyable:
I send a prep guide beforehand so you feel confident and ready.
I help choose outfits for the whole family and offer styling guidance.
My client closet is available. I have classic and timeless newborn outfits and outfits that are beautiful and comfortable for postpartum mom.
I work slowly and intentionally to create a peaceful atmosphere for your baby.
I document your family naturally; no stiff posing, no pressure.
I capture the connection between you, your partner, older siblings, and your baby.
You don’t need a spotless home or a perfectly sleepy baby. You just need to show up exactly as you are.
What Newborn Photos With Me Feel Like
Parents often tell me how surprised they are by how easy and enjoyable their session feels.
There’s no rushing, no pressure, no timelines, just genuine connection and beautiful moments captured in the comfort of your home.
Your newborn session becomes a memory in itself: slow, peaceful, and full of love.
Client Thoughts
Here’s what clients have said about our newborn sessions:
“She was FANTASTIC with my 3 yo, who was less than enthusiastic about having photos done. She was also super great with my 5 yo, who was overly enthusiastic about the sessions. Newborn photos were wonderful. She was patient when baby needed breaks, didn't try to contort the baby into a bunch of bendy positions, and from the photos, you couldn't even tell that he was having a fussy afternoon. Kelly is a master at utilizing natural light, had fantastic rapport with us as well as the kids, her photographs were stunning, she was VERY responsive to emails and text messages, and is overall a lovely human being. I would highly recommend Kelly” - Andrea S
“Kelly took the first pictures of our family when we had our 4th baby. I am so happy we have these pictures! I always loved those days...learning about them and studying every inch of them. Even now a year later, I get all the feels when I look back at those newborn pictures of our last baby.” - Jackie M
Final Thoughts: The “Best Time and Place” Is the One That Feels Right for Your Family
While the 5–14 day window is ideal and in-home sessions are my favorite, the truth is: every baby and every family is different. My job is to help you create images you will treasure forever, images that reflect the real, beautiful story of your baby’s earliest days.
If you’re expecting and would love newborn photos that are heartfelt, authentic, and completely stress-free, I would love to connect with you.