Yes, newborn babies often smile naturally during sleep or when they are content and comfortable.

These early smiles are not necessarily a response to something in their environment, but rather a reflection of their natural development and changing brain chemistry. As babies grow and develop, they will begin to smile in response to stimuli such as the sight and sound of a caregiver’s face or voice. However, it’s important to note that every baby is different, and the timing and frequency of smiling can vary widely from one child to another. Some babies may smile more frequently than others, while some may take longer to develop this skill. It’s also worth noting that newborns may sometimes make facial expressions that resemble smiles, but are not actually intentional smiles. These may be the result of involuntary muscle movements or reflexes.

There have been several studies conducted on newborn smiles and their development.

One study found that newborn babies begin to smile at around 6 to 8 weeks of age, with the frequency of smiling increasing over the first few months of life. Another study found that newborns tend to smile more during the first few weeks of life when they are in a state of quiet alertness, and that these early smiles are often accompanied by other positive behaviors such as cooing and vocalizing.

Research has also shown that newborns are more likely to smile in response to certain stimuli, such as the sight and sound of a caregiver’s face and voice. This suggests that newborns are capable of recognizing and reacting to familiar people and sounds even at a very early age.

In addition to these findings, research has also shown that smiling can have a number of positive effects on newborn development. Smiling can promote social and emotional development, help babies to feel more secure and comfortable, and may even have a positive impact on brain development.

It is not uncommon for newborn babies to smile during a photoshoot

…although it is important to note that every baby is different and the timing and frequency of smiling can vary widely from one child to another. Some newborns may smile more frequently than others, while some may take longer to develop this skill.

As a newborn photographer there are some things that I do to create an environment where a newborn smile is more likely to happen 🙂

I create a comfortable environment making sure that the room is warm and the lighting is soft. A comfortable environment can help your baby relax and feel more at ease.

I use many soothing techniques like gently rocking or patting your baby, or making soft cooing noises help to relax them and make them more likely to smile.

Photographing thousand of babies over the entirety of my newborn career I know the signs when the baby will spontaneously smile. There are a few things they do that cue me into the time that they baby is about to smile!

Every baby has their own unique personality even at this young age and is different from one another. If your newborn doesn’t smile that is ok also! There are so so so many smiles to come as they grow!

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