Newborn Photography with Family Session

Tips for successful newborn photography with family! A newborn session can be a full family affair with big sibling(s), extended family members and pets. Here are a few ways I help out as a newborn photographer to create a smooth photo session experience together:

• Recommend photo spots beforehand.

If you’re planning an in-home newborn session, I will have you send me a quick video tour of your home. This is so we can plan where to take the photos before your session so you know which areas to declutter, and you don’t have to stress about cleaning the entire house while postpartum.

• Help tidy when I arrive.

With your permission, I am happy to help clear off visible counters, wrap cords away, move trash cans and baby wipes so they are not in the background of your photos. Little things like this are a quick and easy way for me to help out and make sure your photos are as beautiful as possible.

• Offer free reschedules.

Birth and early postpartum can be so overwhelming and unpredictable. I offer complimentary reschedules for newborn photography with family when needed.

• Expect lots of milk breaks and pauses.

Newborn sessions are baby-led, meaning we go at your baby’s pace and comfort. Timelines range from 40 minutes to 2 hours in length. Extra time is always buffered in so that we are not rushed and have plenty of time for feeding and rocking your baby.

• Play with older siblings.

I love kids and will totally play with and read books with your older kiddos while you take a break to feed your newest addition. I’m here to give you a helping hand and a wonderful experience, in addition to keepsake-worthy photos.

These are things you can do to have successful newborn photography with family:

• Choose camera-ready clothes.

I recommend wearing outfits that you don’t have to fuss with, so everyone can be camera ready while you’re engaging in regular family activities. Think tickle fights, snuggling, playing chase, piggyback rides etc. For example, use plain white diapers or diaper covers on anyone wearing a dress, make sure shirts aren’t too short while they’re moving their arms, make sure bust lines stay in place with tape or otherwise, make sure pants aren’t too tight for sitting and kneeling down.

• Have an extra set of hands.

It can be nice to have an extra set of hands, like a nanny or grandparent to watch older sibling(s) before and during the session. That way you can squeeze in a shower before the session and also focus on your newest addition during the session. Consider having a separate session later on for extended family, and limit your newborn session to helpful (keyword: HELPFUL) extended family or friends.

• OPTIONAL snacks + toys

This tip is very optional and specifically for older siblings. Having favorite snacks or a new camera-ready toy can help them feel special and excited for the session. Bonus points if the toy can be shared with the new baby, like a book they can read together or a choo choo train that can gently drive on baby.