Welcoming a newborn into the world is one of the most special moments in a parent’s life, and capturing those early days through photography is a wonderful way to preserve those memories forever. However, newborn photography sessions require a little preparation to ensure everything goes smoothly for both the baby and the parents. At Ashley Jo Photography, I want to make the experience as stress-free and enjoyable as possible. Here are some helpful tips on how to prepare for your newborn photography session!
Book Your Session Early
Newborn sessions are best scheduled within the first two weeks of life when your baby is still very sleepy and flexible. To guarantee availability, it’s a good idea to book your session during your pregnancy, ideally in the second or third trimester. This gives you plenty of time to plan ahead and ensures you get the best possible time for capturing your newborn’s first photos. I will put your due date on the calendar as a guideline, and then schedule the specific session date once your little one has made their arrival.
Most sessions are booked 10-21 days postpartum and typically are done in the morning, starting around 9:00 or 10:00 am.
What to Expect During the Session
Newborn photography sessions typically take between 2 to 3 hours, depending on your baby’s needs. Some babies need lots of breaks for feeding, changing, and comforting, so I’ll take our time to ensure your baby is happy and relaxed. Our goal is to create a calm, cozy environment for your newborn.
During the session, I’ll guide you through different poses and setups. If you’re hoping for certain shots, let us know, and I’ll do our best to accommodate your wishes. Trust that I am experienced in handling newborns safely and gently, so you can relax and enjoy the process.
Newborn Prep-List: What to Bring and How to Prepare
Here’s everything you’ll need for your baby’s first photo session. These tips will help ensure that everyone stays comfortable and happy throughout the shoot!
- Dress Your Baby in a Button-Down or Zipper Sleeper
When you arrive, please have your baby dressed in a soft, simple button-down or zipper sleeper. This makes it easy to take clothes off without disturbing your baby or pulling anything over their little head. Less jostling helps keep them relaxed and sleepy—perfect for those precious, peaceful shots! - Get Ready for a Warm Studio
The studio will be a cozy 80+ degrees Fahrenheit to keep your baby nice and comfortable during their session. Since it can get a little warm, I recommend that parents wear lightweight, breathable clothing to stay cool and comfortable. - Choose Simple, Neutral Outfits
Neutral tones and soft colors work best for both parents and siblings during a newborn shoot. These colors tend to photograph beautifully and ensure the focus stays on your baby, not on busy patterns or bright colors. Think soft whites, creams, grays, or pastel shades for a classic look. - Pack a Spare Change of Clothes for Yourself
Accidents happen! It’s always a good idea to bring a spare change of clothes for yourself just in case—whether it’s from a little spit-up or baby mess. It’s better to be prepared! - Bring a Pacifier (If You Use One)
If your baby uses a pacifier, I recommend bringing it along. It can be really helpful for soothing your little one and keeping them calm between shots, especially if I need to gently move them into a different pose. - Bring Snacks for Yourself
Newborn sessions typically take about 2-3 hours, so having a snack on hand is a great idea—especially for parents who might get hungry during the shoot. It’ll keep you energized and comfortable throughout the session! - Extra Bottles for Feeding
If you’re formula feeding or pumping, don’t forget to bring extra bottles or milk with you. We want your baby to feel relaxed and full, and a little snack before or during the session can make a big difference in keeping them sleepy and calm. - Feed Baby Before the Session
Try to feed your baby just before you leave for your session. A full tummy usually means a sleepy baby! If your baby needs a little extra snack when you arrive, don’t worry—I’ll give them a quick “top-up” to help keep them content for the session. - Bring Gripe Water or Gas Drops
If your baby uses gripe water or gas drops to help with tummy discomfort, feel free to bring them along. Sometimes babies can get a little fussy during a photoshoot, and these little remedies can work wonders to soothe your baby back into a calm, sleepy state. - Toys or Books for Older Siblings
If you have older children who will be joining in for a few family or sibling shots, bring along their favorite toys or books to keep them entertained during the session. If they get restless, consider having a family member pick them up after their part of the shoot is done. I typically start with family and sibling poses to get them involved early, so this can make the process smoother. - Plan for a 2-3 Hour Session
Newborn sessions usually take around 2 to 3 hours, as we want to make sure we get all the perfect shots and allow for plenty of breaks for feedings, changes, and comfort. It’s important to have some extra time in your schedule to avoid feeling rushed.
Relax and Enjoy the Moment
I know this is a big milestone, and I want to make sure it’s an enjoyable experience for you, your baby, and the whole family. My goal is to create a relaxed environment where everyone feels comfortable and at ease. By preparing ahead of time, you’ll be able to focus on the sweet moments with your little one while I will take care of the details.
I can’t wait to capture these precious memories for you at Ashley Jo Photography! If you have any questions or need any help preparing, don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m here to help make this experience as wonderful as possible. You’ve hired a professional photographer, so trust that I know how to capture the best moments while keeping your baby safe and happy. I’ll make the session stress-free and fun!
Ashley Jo Photography 