Welcoming a newborn into the world is a magical time, and capturing those first precious days through photography is a cherished experience for many families. To ensure your newborn session goes smoothly, a little preparation can go a long way. Here are some essential tips to help you and your baby get ready for a stress-free, heartwarming photoshoot.

Reserve in the third trimester

I always recommend contacting a photographer at the beginning of your 3rd trimester to begin the planning process. I take a limited number of due dates each month to provide flexibility for scheduling sessions whenever your little one decides to join us. Once baby is born, reach out and we will schedule an exact date.

Aim for the 14 day window

Newborn sessions are typically scheduled when your baby is between 5 and 14 days old. During this time, babies tend to be sleepier and easier to pose, allowing us to capture those adorable curled-up positions. For premature babies or those who have spent time in the NICU, timelines can be adjusted to accommodate their unique needs. Be sure to communicate any special circumstances with me, I am always more than happy to accommodate. 

Give baby a sponge bath the night before

A clean, fresh baby photographs beautifully. Give your little one a gentle sponge bath the evening before the session to keep them relaxed and fresh. This will also help reduce any skin irritations or milk residue that could appear in close-up shots.

dress baby in loose clothing

About an hour before the session, dress your baby in loose-fitting clothing and a slightly looser diaper. This helps prevent marks or creases on their delicate skin. Simple onesies work best so it’s easy to undress them without disturbing their calm state.

Be ready for breaks

Newborns run the show during these sessions, and that’s perfectly okay! We’ll take as many breaks as needed for feeding, soothing, and cuddling. Keeping your baby content and happy is the priority, and those quiet feeding moments can even make for beautiful candid shots.

Bring props and special items

If you have specific props, outfits, or sentimental items you'd like included in the photos, bring them along! Whether it’s a handmade blanket, a family heirloom, or a favorite toy, these personalized touches make your photos unique and meaningful. Before the session, we’ll discuss your vision and ensure everything is seamlessly incorporated.

Decide on Family Involvement

Think about whether you’d like the session to focus solely on your baby or if you’d like to include family photos. Either option is perfectly fine! If parents or siblings are joining, consider coordinating outfits in neutral or pastel colors to keep the focus on your newborn.

Feed baby Before the Session

While we will definitely take feeding breaks, starting off with a well-fed sleepy baby will help the session start off smoothly. Try to time a feeding right before the session begins, and bring extra bottles or be ready to nurse if needed. 

Keep the Environment Warm

Newborns are happiest when they’re warm and cozy. I typically bring a heating pad to help keep them warm, but I also recommend turning the heat up a bit to keep the room toasty overall.