15 Tips for a Stress-Free and Beautiful Newborn Photoshoot
Capturing your newborn’s first few weeks is an experience you’ll cherish forever, but preparing for the session can feel a little overwhelming. By following these tips you can ensure your session is relaxed, stress-free, and results in stunning images.
1. Schedule the Session Early
Newborn sessions are best done within the first 5-20 days after birth. During this time, babies are sleepier, more flexible, and easier to pose. This early window allows for those dreamy, curled-up poses that parents love.
2. Feed Baby Right Before the Session
A full belly equals a happy, sleepy baby! Plan to feed your baby just before the session begins to help them settle into a deep sleep. If your session is in-studio, enjoy sitting in the rocking chair or comfy couch to feed them in a quiet, comfortable space. If your session is in your home then you can start while I am setting up. A well-fed baby will be more relaxed and easier to pose. Also remember if you are breast feeding that if you eat any spicy or gassy foods that will translate into your milk. We don’t want a baby with a unhappy belly for the session.
3. Keep the Studio or Home Warm
Newborns love warmth, and a cozy environment helps them stay comfortable while being photographed. If you’re having an in-home session, consider increasing the thermostat slightly to keep baby comfortable. In my studio, I always maintain a warm, soothing atmosphere with a space heater if needed.
4. Dress Baby in a Loose Onesie
Avoid tight clothing or anything that needs to be pulled over the baby’s head right before the session. Snaps or zip-up outfits are ideal, making it easy to transition baby into their first swaddle or outfit without waking them.
5. Choose Soft, Neutral Tones for Family Outfits
For parents and siblings, soft, neutral colors work best in newborn portraits. Avoid bright colors and busy patterns that may distract from the baby. Light earth tones, creams, and pastels create a timeless and cohesive look.
6. Be Prepared for Messes
Babies are unpredictable, and accidents happen! Whether it’s a diaper mishap or a little spit-up, it’s completely normal. I always have extra wraps and blankets on hand, and you’re welcome to bring an extra outfit just in case.
7. Bring a Pacifier (Even If Baby Doesn’t Use One Yet)
A pacifier can be a lifesaver during a newborn session. Even if your baby doesn’t regularly take one, it can provide just enough soothing to keep them relaxed and comfortable while we capture those adorable poses. I also carry a sound machine to mimic the parents heartbeat and other tones.
8. Plan for Family & Sibling Photos First
If you’re including older siblings in the session, we’ll start with those photos first. Young children have short attention spans, so capturing them early helps keep them engaged. Afterward, they can relax, play, or even head home with a family member while we focus on baby-only shots. If they aren’t ready then we just take our time and can do them in the middle or end. Ultimately the session is flexible to what your baby and/or other children need.
9. Stay Calm—Baby Feeds Off Your Energy
Babies are incredibly intuitive and can sense stress. If parents are anxious, the baby may become fussy too. Take a deep breath, relax, and trust the process. Even if the baby needs extra time to settle, we’ll work patiently to capture beautiful moments.
10. Simple and Natural Is Best
While props can be fun, the best newborn photos often feature simple, timeless setups that focus on baby’s natural beauty. Soft wraps, delicate textures, and neutral backdrops create classic, heartfelt images that won’t feel outdated over time.
11. Trust the Posing Techniques
As a newborn photographer, I’ve been trained in safe and gentle posing techniques to keep your baby comfortable at all times. Some poses take a few extra minutes to perfect, but safety always comes first. If baby isn’t comfortable in a certain pose, we simply move on to something else.
12. Relax While I Work
One of the biggest perks of an newborn session is that parents get to relax while I handle everything! Sit back on the couch, enjoy a coffee, scroll through your phone, or simply soak in the peaceful moment. Many parents tell me it’s one of the most restful experiences they’ve had since their baby arrived! I will take care of everything. Plus get baby snuggles. My kids are now grown so I LOVE when I get baby snuggles!
13. Bring Meaningful Heirlooms or Accessories
If you have a sentimental blanket, a tiny hat, or a special stuffed animal, bring it along! A meaningful prop can add a personal touch to your baby’s photos and make the session even more memorable.
14. Plan for a Mid-Session Feeding or Cuddle Break
Even if baby is fed before the session, they may need a little top-off halfway through, and that’s completely normal. I always allow time for feeding breaks, diaper changes, and extra snuggles as needed to keep baby happy and content. The more we touch and redress the baby the more active they can get.
15. Enjoy the Moment—These Days Go by Fast
Most importantly, remember that this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The newborn stage is fleeting, and these photos will be cherished for years to come. Trust me, embrace the process, and enjoy capturing this beautiful time in your baby’s life.
By following these tips, you’ll help create the perfect environment for a relaxed, beautiful newborn session. Whether you’re in my studio or having an at-home session, my goal is to make this experience easy, enjoyable, and filled with heartfelt memories.
