Preparing for Your Newborn Photography Session


Welcoming a new baby into your family is such a special time, and capturing those early moments with a newborn photography session is a wonderful way to preserve those memories. To ensure a smooth and stress-free experience, here are some tips on how to prepare for your in-home newborn session.

Getting Your Home Ready


  1. Choose the Best Spaces: Natural light is key for beautiful newborn photos. Identify rooms in your home that get the most light during the morning or early afternoon, as that’s when sessions typically take place. Large windows and open spaces help create a soft, natural glow that enhances the beauty of the images.
  2. Declutter, but Don’t Stress: You don’t need a spotless home! Focus on clearing surfaces in the rooms we’ll be using (like the master bedroom, nursery, or living room) to minimize distractions in the photos. Removing unnecessary items from nightstands, dressers, and coffee tables can help create a clean, simple backdrop.
  3. Adjust the Temperature: Babies love warmth, so keeping your home slightly warmer than usual (around 75-80°F) can help keep your newborn comfortable during the session. If your baby is comfortable, they are more likely to remain calm and sleepy throughout the shoot.
  4. Have Neutral and Soft Bedding: If we’ll be photographing on a bed, neutral or lightly colored blankets and sheets work best for a soft, timeless look. Light grays, whites, or pastels create a calming atmosphere that ensures your baby remains the main focus in the images.
A young family relaxes together on a grey tufted sofa, tenderly sharing a quiet moment with their newborn baby.
Baby wearing navy blue outfit stretches out arms while being held near window during daytime.

Preparing Your Baby


  1. Feed Your Baby Before the Session: A full baby is a happy baby! Try to feed your little one right before I arrive so they are sleepy and content. If they need a top-off during the session, that’s perfectly fine—we want them to be as comfortable as possible.
  2. Dress in Simple, Easy-to-Remove Clothing: A snug onesie or a swaddle makes for adorable, classic newborn portraits. Avoid anything with bright colors or busy patterns, as they can be distracting in photos. Soft, neutral fabrics photograph beautifully and keep your baby looking cozy and natural.
  3. Keep Diaper Changes and Burp Cloths Handy: Babies are unpredictable! Having essentials nearby can help with quick cleanups so we can get back to capturing those sweet moments. Keeping wipes, extra diapers, and a fresh onesie within reach ensures minimal disruptions.
  4. Let Them Set the Pace: Newborn sessions are baby-led, meaning we’ll work around their needs for feeding, changing, and soothing. If they need a break, we take it. These sessions are designed to be as relaxed as possible so that both baby and parents can enjoy the experience.


Preparing Siblings


  1. Talk to Them About the Session: If you have older children, let them know that we’ll be taking special pictures of their new sibling and that they’ll get to be involved, too. Setting expectations and making them feel important helps create excitement and cooperation.
  2. Have a Favorite Toy or Snack on Hand: Keeping little ones engaged (or offering a small break when needed) can make for happier sibling photos. A beloved stuffed animal or a small treat can be a great motivator to keep their energy up.
  3. Let Them Be Themselves: Sometimes the best photos come from candid moments—hugs, kisses, or even just watching their baby sibling. No need to force perfect poses! Letting siblings interact naturally results in heartwarming and authentic images that truly reflect their bond.


Small child in a white shirt smiling while leaning on a wooden bed frame in a bright bedroom setting.

Preparing Yourselves


  1. Wear Neutral, Soft Colors: Light, neutral tones photograph beautifully and keep the focus on your baby. Soft textures like knits or flowy fabrics can add warmth to your images. Try to coordinate with your partner and family in complementary colors without being too matchy-matchy.
  2. Relax and Enjoy the Moment: I know the early newborn days can be overwhelming, but trust that I will guide you through the session so you can soak in these precious moments. The more relaxed you are, the more natural and heartfelt your images will be.
  3. Don’t Worry About Perfection: Life with a newborn is messy and beautiful. Some of the most touching images come from real, unscripted moments. A little spit-up, yawns, or sleepy stretches can add to the charm of your photos, so embrace the imperfection!


A sleeping baby swaddled in a dinosaur print blanket is lovingly gazed upon by their parents against a white background.
A peacefully sleeping newborn wearing a soft brown hat and swaddle blanket lies on patterned white bedding.

Additional Tips


  • Gather Meaningful Items: If you have special blankets, heirloom outfits, or sentimental items, have them ready so we can incorporate them into your session. A handmade quilt from grandma or a beloved stuffed animal can add personal significance to your images. And they will love seeing those photos.
  • Be Flexible: Babies have their own schedule, and that’s okay! If we need extra time for feeding or soothing, we’ll take it. These sessions are designed to accommodate your baby’s natural rhythms.
  • Keep It Simple: The best newborn photos often come from a minimalist approach. Soft lighting, neutral tones, and natural moments will make for timeless images you’ll cherish forever.

I can’t wait to capture these precious memories for you!


If you are in the market for a Treasure Coast Newborn Photographer, I'd love to help photograph your newest additions! Fill out the contact form here.