We waited until 3 weeks and while I loved the shots I got, they weren't the typical "newborn" shots...she wouldn't go on her tummy and her eyes were open for most of them.

Within the first 10 days is best for new born photo shoots

We had our newborn photos done at 11 days old. Our photographer suggested the first 2 weeks since babies sleep more then.

We are having his Easter pics done this weekend at 6 weeks old. I'm a little nervous because he's awake more now and a little colicky so it could be either a good or bad experience.

I planned the shoot for right after a bottle feed hoping he'll be happy/content or asleep for pics. That helped at his newborn shoot.

I was told by my photographer 4-10 days old for "newborn" photos. They go to sleep so much easier. If you are wanting awake & smiling then later I think would be better.