Preparing for Your Newborn Photo Session
A Thoughtful, Effortless Experience
The first few weeks with your newborn are a blur of soft sighs, delicate stretches, and the quiet rhythm of early days together. It’s a time that passes too quickly—but through thoughtful, fine-art photography, you can hold onto these fleeting moments forever.
If you’re here, you already value high-quality, timeless imagery—portraits that feel effortless and elegant, designed to be displayed in your home for generations. My approach is centered around creating a seamless, luxurious experience where every detail is taken care of, so you can simply be present with your baby.
Here are my best tips on preparing for your newborn photo session so it feels as seamless and meaningful as the images we create, and ensuring a relaxed, beautiful experience.
The Best Time for Newborn Photos
If you’re wondering, “When should I book a newborn photographer?”, the ideal time for your session is within the first 14 days after birth (with a magical sweet spot within the first 48 hours). At this age, babies are still naturally curled up and sleepy, allowing us to capture those dreamy, peaceful portraits.
Since availability is limited, I recommend preparing for your newborn photo session to be during your second trimester. That way, we can reserve time around your due date and adjust as needed once baby arrives. If you’re also considering a maternity photoshoot, we can plan a cohesive experience that flows beautifully from pregnancy to newborn portraits.
How to Prepare Your Baby for a Relaxed Session
A calm, content baby makes for the most beautiful, natural images. A few simple steps can help ensure a smooth baby photoshoot:
✔ Keep baby awake for 30–60 minutes before your session to encourage deeper sleep.
✔ Feed baby right before we begin so they’re cozy and settled.
✔ Dress baby in a simple, loose-fitting onesie (no tight elastic or zippers) to avoid red marks on their skin.
Every session is unhurried and baby-led. If we need to pause for a feeding or extra snuggles, we will—this time is about embracing the natural rhythm of these early days.
What to Bring (or Let Me Handle It All)
I provide a curated selection of luxurious swaddles, heirloom-quality blankets, and soft, neutral wardrobe options to create a timeless aesthetic. However, if you’d like to incorporate personal touches, consider bringing:
✨ A meaningful heirloom (a family blanket, a delicate bonnet, or a favorite stuffed animal).
🍼 A pacifier (even if baby doesn’t regularly use one, it can help soothe between poses).
👶 Extra diapers, wipes, and, if bottle feeding, a backup bottle.
Rest assured-there’s nothing you need to bring unless it holds special meaning for you—this full-service newborn photography experience is designed to be completely effortless.
What to Wear: Soft, Neutral, and Timeless
The key to effortless, elegant newborn photos? Soft, neutral tones and natural textures that complement your baby’s delicate features.
✔ Moms: A flowing dress or relaxed knit in ivory, beige, or soft pastels (think Nothing Fits But, Reformation, Needle & Thread, or Doen).
✔ Dads: A linen button-down or fitted sweater in light, earthy hues.
✔ Siblings: Simple, neutral outfits in soft fabrics (Rylee + Cru, Noralee, Jamie Kay).
Not sure what to wear? I offer Client Wardrobe with a selection of carefully curated pieces to make choosing effortless for moms, babies, and children up to age 5. During our planning call, we will go over wardrobe styling, and I will have recommendations for your entire family. You can also learn about color coordination here.
Creating a Cozy, Peaceful Atmosphere
A warm, inviting space helps your baby feel safe and comfortable. My newborn photography studio is softly lit, kept at the perfect cozy temperature, and filled with gentle white noise to mimic the womb. If you prefer an in-home newborn session, I’ll bring everything needed to create a beautiful, serene setting in your space.
Your only job? To relax and enjoy the experience. Feel free to sip a coffee, soak in the moment, and let me take care of the rest.
What to Expect During Your Session
Newborn sessions typically last 2–3 hours, allowing plenty of time for feeding, soothing, and capturing a mix of:
🌿 Beautifully swaddled, sleepy portraits
🌿 Natural, emotive family moments
🌿 Delicate details—lashes, fingers, toes, the little things you never want to forget
There is no rush, no rigid posing—just a gentle, organic approach that highlights the deep connection between you and your baby.
A Thoughtful Experience, Designed for You
This is more than a photoshoot—it’s a way to preserve the beauty of this season in a way that feels effortless and meaningful.
From wardrobe styling to custom artwork design, my goal is to eliminate the stress of planning and create something truly special for your family. If you’re looking for a stress-free newborn photoshoot that results in heirloom-quality newborn portraits, I’d love to connect.
If you have questions or would like to book your session, I’d love to connect. Let’s create something beautiful together.
Inquire about availability here.
Now booking newborn photography in Newburyport, Portsmouth, Newmarket Wellesley, and surrounding areas.
