Newborn Prep Guide

Prepping for a successful newborn session

I provide everything needed for your baby’s session—wraps, outfits, backdrops, and props—so there’s no need to bring anything for them to wear. Your only job is to arrive, relax, and enjoy the experience.

When to Schedule

Newborn sessions are best done within the first two weeks when babies are sleepiest and most naturally curled up. After two weeks, babies become more alert, and certain classic newborn poses may be more difficult to achieve. That said, I photograph newborns up to six weeks old, and while the session may look a little different, we’ll still create beautiful images.

For twins or preemies, I’ll be in touch to plan the best approach for their unique needs.

How to Prepare

Before Your Session

✔ Feeding & Comfort

• If you’re breastfeeding, try to avoid foods that may cause gas* for 24 hours before your session to help keep baby comfortable.

• *Foods that may cause gas in babies include:

  • Dairy (milk, cheese, yogurt, pudding, cream, or foods containing whey, casein, or sodium caseinate)

  • Spicy foods (hot sauce, salsa, spicy seasonings)

  • Caffeinated drinks (coffee, tea, soda, energy drinks)

  • Peanuts and tree nuts

  • Chocolate

  • Beans (black beans, kidney beans, lentils, chickpeas, etc.)

  • Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, Brussels sprouts)

  • Onions and garlic

• Plan to feed baby right before you leave or feed as soon as you arrive at the studio. A full tummy means a sleepy, content baby, which helps us get those peaceful, curled-up poses.

• If bottle-feeding, bring extra milk (formula or breastmilk) since babies tend to eat more than usual in the warm studio.

✔ Keeping Baby Comfortable

• Dress baby in a loose-fitting sleeper (avoid onesies or anything that goes over the head). This prevents skin lines and makes outfit changes easier.

• If your baby uses a pacifier, please bring one—it can be a big help during transitions. Even if they don’t typically take one, having it just in case can make a difference.

✔ Sleep & Stimulation

• No need to keep baby awake before the session, but if they’re naturally awake, engaging with them can sometimes help them sleep more soundly later.

✔ For Parents

• The studio will be warm to keep baby cozy, so dress in layers for your own comfort.

• Sessions can last 2-3 hours, depending on baby’s needs. Some little ones require more breaks, and that’s completely normal.

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Family & Sibling Portraits

Parent Portraits

• If you’ve chosen to include family portraits, we’ll typically do them about an hour into the session (or earlier if young siblings are involved).

• I offer a full client closet for moms, and dads should bring a neutral button-down shirt and a black t-shirt. If you prefer your own outfit, keep it soft and neutral.

Sibling Portraits

• If older siblings are joining, we’ll capture their photos at the beginning of the session.

• Light, neutral clothing (cream, ivory, white) works best. No logos, patterns, or bright colors.

• I have a studio wardrobe for girls (newborn to age 10) if you’d like to use it.

• Siblings will be barefoot, so no need to worry about shoes.

• After sibling portraits, I recommend having a parent take them home or out for an activity so we can focus on the newborn portion of the session.

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Additional Things to Know

✔ Safety FirstYour baby’s safety is always my top priority. I have photographed over 100 newborns and have the training and experience to ensure your little one is always safe, comfortable, and well-supported in every pose.

✔ Attention to DetailNewborn photography is an art, and I take my time perfecting every little detail—down to tiny fingers, toes, and eyelashes. It’s not unusual for me to spend 20 minutes adjusting just one pose to get it just right.

✔ Accidents Happen!Babies pee and poop—a lot—during sessions, and it often happens while they’re being photographed. No worries at all! It’s part of the process, and I’m fully prepared.

✔ Keeping Everyone Comfortable

• If your partner or older kids tend to get restless, feel free to bring something to keep them entertained—I have great WiFi if that helps!

Circumcision Considerations

If you’re planning to circumcise your baby, I recommend scheduling the session before the procedure or waiting a few days afterward to ensure they are comfortable and healing well.

Props & Special Requests

• I provide all wraps, backdrops, furniture, hats, and headbands, with a style focused on classic, timeless portraits that highlight your baby.

• If you have specific poses or ideas, I’m happy to discuss them! However, every pose depends on baby’s comfort and flexibility, and I will never attempt anything that isn’t safe or natural for your little one.

• I do not use props that could be unsafe or controversial, however if you have something you would like incorporated such as a cultural item or heirloom piece please let us know on your questionnaire so we can incorporate it into your session.

  
  

Final Thoughts

I want this experience to be as relaxed and enjoyable as possible for you. Newborns have their own little schedules, and I work at their pace, allowing plenty of time for snuggles, feeding breaks, and soothing when needed.

If you have any questions before your session, just reach out—I’m happy to help! I can’t wait to create beautiful images of your sweet little one.