How to Prep for Your Newborn Session
Tips for a Calm, Sleepy, and Happy Baby
Your newborn session is all about capturing your little one in their tiniest, sweetest stage—curled up, sleepy, and oh-so-new. While we’ll take care of the posing, safety, and cozy setup, a little prep on your end can make all the difference for a smooth, peaceful experience.
Here are our top tips to help you (and baby!) get ready
Keep Baby Awake Before the Session
We know—this can be tricky! But if you can keep your baby awake for 30–60 minutes before the session, they’ll be more likely to sleep soundly once they’re all wrapped up and warm. Play, talk, bathe, or gently stimulate them with some movement and light.
Feed Baby Right Before the Session
A full belly = a happy, sleepy baby. Try to time your feeding for just before we start (or right when you arrive at the studio). If you’re nursing or bottle-feeding, plan a full, unrushed feed and burp to help baby settle into a deep sleep.
Don’t stress if baby needs to feed again during the session—pauses for soothing, feeding, or changing are 100% expected.
Dress Baby in Something Easy to Remove
Skip anything with lots of buttons, tight sleeves, or complex layers. A simple zip-up sleeper or onesie is perfect; ideally nothing we have to put over baby’s head. We’ll handle the wraps, blankets, and outfits during the session!
Bring the Essentials
Here’s a quick list of what to pack:
Extra diapers & wipes
A pacifier (if baby takes one; the green soothie the hospital often provides is perfect as it does not leave marks on baby’s face)
Your pump if you are pumping (sessions can often last 2-3 hours as they are baby-led)
A backup bottle (if you’re bottle feeding)
Any special item you’d like to include (heirlooms, outfits, name signs, etc.)
Special snacks and books for siblings who are being included (we have a fun
Keep the Studio (or Home) Warm
Babies are most content when they’re warm and cozy—especially if they’ll be photographed without clothes. We’ll keep our space toasty, but if we’re doing an in-home session, turn up the heat (to about 80 degrees) just a bit beforehand to help baby stay comfy.
Relax—We’ve Got You
We are trained to soothe, swaddle, and pose newborns safely and gently. It’s completely normal for babies to fuss, need breaks, or take a little time to settle. You’re not on a timer—we follow baby’s lead.
Let’s Capture the Calm
Newborn photos aren’t just about poses—they’re about connection, love, and capturing the stillness in the middle of this beautiful chaos. With just a little prep, we’ll create a peaceful, baby-led session that leaves you with timeless images you’ll treasure forever.
