07 Apr Your Newborn Photography Session Checklist
Bringing your tiny bundle of joy in for their first professional photoshoot is an exciting milestone! To help make your newborn session as smooth and stress-free as possible, I’ve put together this simple checklist covering everything you need to do beforehand and what to bring along on the day.
Before Your Session: How to Prepare
1. Schedule Your Session Early
Newborn sessions are best held within the first two weeks after birth when babies are at their sleepiest and easiest to pose. If you haven’t already, book your session in advance to secure a spot!
2. Give Baby Some Awake Time Before the Session
A tired baby is a sleepy baby, which is exactly what we want for those curled-up, dreamy poses! Try giving baby some awake/play time before you leave for the session. Baby may fall asleep in the car on your way to the studio and that’s completely ok.
3. Feed Baby Right Before the Session
A full tummy helps keep baby content and settled. I suggest feeding baby upon arrival at the studio unless you live within 20 minutes of the studio. If you’re bottle-feeding, please bring extra formula or expressed milk just in case.
4. Dress Baby in Something Easy to Remove
A simple zip-up onesie (without a singlet underneath) is perfect for easy undressing without disturbing them too much.
5. Check Your Nails (and Partner’s, Too!)
Your hands will likely be in some photos, so make sure your nails are clean and free of chipped polish.
6. Keep Your Outfit Simple and Neutral
Soft, neutral tones photograph best. Avoid busy patterns, logos, or bright colours that can reflect onto baby’s skin.
7. Pack Light Makeup and Hair Essentials
If you’d like to freshen up before parent portraits, bring some light makeup, a hairbrush, and lip balm.
What to Bring to Your Session
For Baby:
✔️ Extra nappies and wipes
✔️ A spare dummy
✔️ A favourite blanket for comfort
✔️ Extra formula or expressed milk if bottle-feeding
✔️ A change of clothes in case of accidents
For Parents & Siblings:
✔️ A spare top for mum & dad (accidents happen!)
✔️ Snacks & water – newborn sessions can take a few hours
✔️ Entertainment for siblings (colouring books, iPads, etc.)
✔️ A sentimental item if you’d like it included in the photos
By preparing in advance, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy the experience of capturing your baby’s first precious moments. If you have any questions leading up to your session, feel free to reach out—I’m always happy to help!
Would you like to book a Maternity, Newborn or Milestone Photography session?
Don’t forget to book in advance to ensure availability as sessions are limited.
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