How To Prepare For Your Newborn Photography Session

Capturing the first few days of your baby's life is a priceless experience. A newborn photography session ensures you have beautiful, timeless images of your little one to cherish forever. To make the most of your session, proper preparation is key. Here’s a few things you need to know to get ready for a smooth and successful newborn photoshoot.

Tip 1: Schedule Your Session Early

Newborn photography is best done within the first two weeks of life, ideally between 6-14 days old. During this time, babies are sleepier and more likely to stay curled up in those adorable poses. Newborns can be photographed up to 6 weeks old in curled up poses with an experienced photographer like myself so don't panic if your newborn is already here and you are trying to find a newborn photographer. You're in the right place!

To secure your due date, book your session before your baby arrives, typically during the second trimester. This ensures you have a spot on my calendar. 

Tip 2: Keep Baby Comfortable and Sleepy

A sleepy, content baby is ideal for a newborn session. Here’s how you can help:

• Keep your baby awake for 30-60 minutes before the session to encourage a deep sleep during our shoot.
• Feed your baby right before the session, ensuring they have a full belly and are satisfied.
• Dress them in loose clothing (like a zip-up sleeper) to make outfit changes easier and keep the diaper on loosely to avoid marks on the skin.
• Use a pacifier, if possible, to help soothe your baby between poses. Even if you are 100% against using a pacifier, this can make or break a session. 

Tip 3: Create a Cozy Environment

Newborns are used to the warmth of the womb, so keeping them comfortable is essential.

• If it's a studio session, I will keep the room warm. Your baby will be wrapped for most of the session and a heater will be nearby for added warmth.
• If it’s an in-home session, raise the thermostat to 75-80°F for a cozy atmosphere.
• White noise or soft music can help keep your baby calm and relaxed. I have a soothing device that I use for every newborn session to keep your baby calm and sleepy.

INTERESTED IN A NEWBORN SESSION? LEARN MORE! 

Tip 4: Dress For The Session

For classic, timeless portraits for lifestyle sessions for your newborn:

• Opt for neutral colors like beige, white, soft pastels, or muted earth tones.
• I will bring 1 to 2 wraps for your session for one or two studio type posing; however, an in-home newborn photography session is geared to more natural posing and baby clothing.

For classic, timeless portraits in studio for your newborn:

• Studio wraps and outfits are provided for your convenience
• Neutral colors like beige, white, soft pastels, and muted earth toned wraps are used. 

Tip 5: Prepare Yourself and Siblings

Family and sibling portraits are often included in newborn sessions, so be sure everyone is prepared:

• For parents: Wear simple, neutral outfits to keep the focus on the baby. I offer several neutral colored outfits that mothers are welcome to wear.
• For siblings: Choose soft, coordinating colors. Avoid distracting prints or graphics. I have a growing closet of little girl dresses that my clients are welcome to use.
• I provide snacks and drinks for everyone and toys for siblings. You are welcome to bring anything you like to help entertain siblings or a helper to take them to the park or home after their portion of the session is finished. 
• Your children are welcome to go outside and play basketball, kick a soccer ball or play on the yard.

Tip 6: Bring the Essentials

Pack a small bag with must-haves for a stress-free session:

• Extra diapers and wipes
• A change of clothes for baby and parents (just in case of accidents!)
• Burp cloths
• Baby hair brush
• Pacifier
• Baby lotion (for dry skin)
• A favorite swaddle or special heirloom item. You are welcome to bring anything that you wish to have your baby photographed with. Providing this information ahead of time allows me to prepare a set specific to what you plan to bring.

Tip 7: Relax and Enjoy the Experience

Newborn sessions can last 2-3 hours to allow time for feeding, soothing, and capturing those precious moments. Trust me, your photographer, stay patient, and enjoy this special time with your little one. Newborns are my specialty. I hold your hand throughout the entire experience so that you know exactly what to expect from start to finish.

Final Thoughts

With the right preparation, your newborn photography session will be a relaxing and enjoyable experience. By following these tips, you’ll ensure beautiful, timeless images that you and your family will cherish for a lifetime.

If you're looking for a professional newborn photographer in Winston Salem, contact me by clicking the link below today!

If you're on the fence about which style of newborn session you want, check out my previous post about lifestyle or posed newborn session