Preparing your newborn for a successful newborn photoshoot can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. With the help of an experienced newborn photographer and some simple preparation, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free newborn session for both you and your baby. Read below to make sure you can prepare for a successful newborn photoshoot.

1) Choose the right photographer

When it comes to planning a stress free newborn photoshoot, one of the most important things you can do is choose the right photographer. You’ll want to decide whether you prefer an in home session or an in studio session. I highly recommend studio sessions as they take the stress out of having to clean your home before the photographer arrives.
Another factor to consider is the style of photos, editing, and poses that you like. Research potential photographers and view their portfolios to see if their style aligns with your vision for the shoot. This will help ensure a stress free session because you’ll feel confident in your photographer’s abilities and know what to expect.
Overall, the key to a successful newborn photoshoot is preparation, so take your time when choosing a photographer. With the right photographer and a little bit of planning, you’ll be on your way to capturing beautiful memories of your new baby without any added stress.

2) Plan your wardrobe

Planning your wardrobe is an important step in ensuring a stress-free session for your newborn photoshoot. When choosing your outfits, it’s important to consider what will photograph well and what will complement the theme of the photoshoot. To make the process easier, many photographers offer wardrobe options for both mom and baby.
As a photographer, I offer a carefully curated wardrobe with options for moms of all sizes, from XS to XXXL. I also have a selection of outfits for newborns and young siblings, depending on their age and size. These options are carefully chosen to ensure that your photos will look amazing and complement the overall theme of the shoot.
If you’re unsure of what to wear, don’t worry! I can work with you to choose outfits that will work best for your family and your photoshoot theme. Simply contact me to set up a wardrobe planning session before your shoot.
By taking the time to plan your wardrobe, you can eliminate any potential stress of not knowing what to wear and ensure that your photoshoot runs smoothly. With a little bit of preparation, you can sit back and relax, knowing that you and your family will look great in your photos.

3) Plan for siblings if needed

One of the key things to consider when preparing for a newborn photoshoot is whether you have other children to think about. While it can be a great idea to involve siblings in the session, it’s important to plan for this in advance to ensure a stress-free session for everyone involved.
One thing to consider is whether you’ll need to arrange separate transportation for your older children. If your newborn session is going to take 2-3 hours, it’s unlikely that your toddler will be happy sitting still in a car seat for that long. Driving separately may help to ensure that everyone arrives at the studio feeling calm and relaxed.
Another thing to think about is how you’ll involve your other children in the photoshoot itself. Depending on their age and temperament, you may need to have a plan in place to keep them occupied and entertained while your newborn is being photographed. Bringing along some snacks or toys can be a good way to keep them happy and engaged.
Ultimately, the key to preparing for successful newborn photoshoot with siblings is to be flexible and patient. It’s important to remember that things may not always go according to plan, but with a bit of preparation and a positive attitude, you can still have a stress-free session that results in beautiful photos of your growing family.

4) Have plenty of milk for baby during the session

During a newborn photoshoot, it is crucial to have plenty of milk on hand for your baby. Babies at this age are still adjusting to the outside world and may need to feed more often than usual. This is especially true if the shoot takes longer than anticipated or if your little one becomes fussy and needs to be calmed down.
As a parent, it is important to remember that a well-fed baby is a happy baby. Bring extra milk to the session or be prepared to nurse more often than you normally would. Your photographer will likely understand and work with you to ensure your baby is comfortable throughout the shoot.
It is also important to remember that a nursing-friendly environment is essential during a newborn photoshoot. A reputable photographer will understand this and work with you to create a comfortable space for both you and your baby.
If you are comfortable with it, your photographer may even be able to capture some nursing photos during the session. These can be a beautiful reminder of this special bonding time between you and your little one.
In summary, make sure to plan for your baby’s feeding needs during the session. Bring extra milk or be prepared to nurse more often than usual. Remember, a well-fed baby is a happy baby, and this will lead to a successful and stress-free newborn photoshoot.

5) Relax and enjoy the process!

It can be easy to get caught up in the details of a newborn photoshoot, but remember that this is a special moment to capture your baby’s first few weeks of life. Take a deep breath, trust your photographer, and let them do their job. You’ve done everything you can to prepare for a successful newborn photoshoot.
Remember that babies can be unpredictable, and that’s okay. Allow your photographer to take breaks when needed, and don’t worry if your baby needs to be soothed or fed during the session. In fact, some of the most beautiful photos can come from these tender moments between you and your little one.
Try to let go of any expectations or pressures you may feel, and just enjoy being in the moment with your baby. Take the time to admire their tiny hands and feet, and soak in the memories of this fleeting stage.
A successful newborn photoshoot doesn’t just mean having a bunch of beautiful photos to show off. It means having a positive experience that you’ll cherish for years to come. So relax, trust the process, and enjoy the journey with your new little one.

More Resources:

• https://figandolivephotography.com/2023/01/24/what-is-a-rainbow-baby/
• https://figandolivephotography.com/2022/12/07/the-importance-of-hiring-a-trained-newborn-photographer/