Newborn Session Tips for Parents

Planning your newborn photo session? Here’s what you need to know to make the experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Unlike adult sessions, newborn photography requires patience, time, and flexibility—it can take up to 3 hours to capture those perfect shots. While I may need a little help from you during the session, most of the time you can sit back, relax, or even take a nap! After the session, I’ll perform detailed skin retouching for the baby, which means extra post-processing time to perfect the images.

To prepare, you can choose 1-3 photo scenes from my portfolio that you love, and I’ll work them into the session. These tips will help you feel prepared and ensure a successful session!

Before the Session

1. Prepare Your Baby:

   • Gently clean flaky skin and eye boogers with a washcloth.

   • Trim your baby’s fingernails and toenails with baby-safe trimmers.

   • Remove any band-aids (from heel pricks or vaccines) early enough for imprint marks to fade.

2. Stick to Your Baby’s Diet:

   • Don’t change their diet before or during the session—whether breastfeeding, formula feeding, or both.

   • Babies will eat more often during the session, so be prepared for extra feedings.

3. Encourage Sleepiness:

   • Keep your baby awake for 2-3 hours before the session. Give them a bath, let them kick in just a diaper, tickle their toes, or let them fuss a little (without a pacifier).

   • Enlist family members to help with these tasks if needed.

4. Feed and Burp Before You Leave:

   • A full tummy helps ensure your baby is comfortable and ready for those adorable sleepy poses. The car ride to the studio often helps lull them into a deep sleep.

At the Session

• Dress in Layers: The studio will be warm to keep the baby cozy. Wear layers so you can stay comfortable.

• Stay Calm: If your baby is fussy or alert, don’t stress—they can sense your anxiety. A relaxed environment is key to a successful session.

What to Bring

• Pacifiers (most important!) and an extra bottle of milk or formula.

• Entertainment, snacks, and water for yourself and siblings.

• All diaper-changing essentials, including creams and wipes.

• Any toys or props you’d like included in the photos.

• Additional outfits or accessories for the baby (let me know in advance so I can coordinate colors).

• An extra set of clothing for yourself—accidents happen during newborn sessions!

Wardrobe Suggestions

1. Mom:

   • Keep makeup subtle to soften your skin and accentuate your features.

   • Opt for neutral, simple outfits. Tidy, clean nails are a must.

2. Dad:

   • Be freshly shaved or neatly groomed. Use aftershave to avoid redness or irritation.

   • Trim nails and facial hair for a polished look.

3. Siblings:

   • Ensure they’re clean—nails, hair, and teeth!

   • Dress them in solid colors and avoid patterns to keep the focus on the baby.

   • Bring snacks (that won’t stain teeth or mouths) as bribes, and avoid colorful drinks or lollipops 24 hours before the session.

   • Since newborn sessions can last up to 3 hours, we’ll photograph young children at the beginning (about 30 minutes). Please arrange childcare for them afterward, as they may struggle with long sessions in unfamiliar environments.

Additional Tips

• Babies are unpredictable but incredibly adorable models! If you have any concerns or suggestions, don’t hesitate to share them with me.

• Remember, some of the most beautiful moments happen naturally—so relax and let the magic unfold.

Let’s Create Memories!

By following this guide, you’ll help create a smooth and stress-free experience. Together, we’ll capture images you’ll cherish for a lifetime!