Preparing for Your Newborn Photoshoot: A Detailed Checklist

adelemorris
Apr 23
9 min read

As a parent, one of the most exciting and cherished milestones is the arrival of your newborn baby. From their tiny hands and feet to their soft, delicate features, it’s no wonder that so many parents want to capture these precious moments with a newborn photoshoot. These photos serve as lasting memories, helping to preserve a time that passes all too quickly.

However, while newborn photoshoots are beautiful, they can also feel overwhelming if you're not prepared. From choosing the right photographer to managing feeding and napping schedules, there are several things to think about to ensure a smooth, stress-free experience.

In this blog post, I’ve created a comprehensive checklist to guide you through the entire process, from booking your session to preparing your baby and ensuring your comfort during the shoot. This way, you’ll feel confident and ready, and your photoshoot will be a relaxed, enjoyable experience.

1. Book Your Session Early

Newborn photography is a specialized art, and many photographers, especially those with experience, book up well in advance. Ideally, you should aim to book your newborn photoshoot when you're around 20-30 weeks pregnant. This gives you plenty of time to secure your spot, allowing you to plan for the session without the added stress of last-minute availability.

When booking, be sure to discuss your photographer’s policies. Some may ask for a deposit to hold your spot, while others may have specific guidelines on when you should schedule your photoshoot for the best results. It's important to note that newborn sessions are typically best held within the first 14 days of life, as babies are generally sleepier and more flexible during this time.

2. Choose Your Photographer Carefully

Selecting a photographer with experience in newborn photography is essential. Newborns require gentle handling, special care, and an understanding of their needs. You want a photographer who is not only skilled in posing babies but also trained in safety techniques.

Look for someone who has a certification in newborn safety posing or has undergone specialized training. Don’t hesitate to ask your photographer about their experience with newborns and whether they are trained in infant CPR and first aid. Additionally, check if the photographer has a portfolio of previous newborn photoshoots that showcases their skill and style.

I personally take great pride in my newborn safety certification, having undergone extensive training in safe posing techniques. This ensures your baby will be comfortable and safe throughout the entire session.

3. Timing is Everything

Choosing the right time for your photoshoot is key to a successful session. As mentioned earlier, the best time to photograph your newborn is within the first two weeks of life. During this time, babies are usually still very sleepy, and they tend to curl into the fetal position, which is perfect for those classic newborn poses.

However, it’s not always possible to photograph a baby within this window. If your baby is born prematurely or has a medical condition, your photographer may advise waiting until your baby is healthy and strong enough. It’s best to discuss any timing concerns with your photographer beforehand to ensure they can accommodate your needs.

4. Prepare Your Baby’s Feed and Nap Schedule

A well-fed and well-rested baby is key to a successful photoshoot. Babies often sleep deeply during their first few weeks, but they can also get hungry and need to feed frequently. To help ensure your baby is calm and content, try to schedule the photoshoot around your baby's feed and nap times.

Here are a few tips to help:

Feed your baby
right before the session. A full tummy can help your baby sleep soundly during the shoot.
Keep your baby awake
for a short time before the session to make them more likely to sleep during the photoshoot.
Bring extra bottles or breastfeed
during breaks, especially if your baby tends to get fussy between shots.

Additionally, some babies are very sensitive to disruptions in their routines, so try to keep their schedule as normal as possible leading up to the shoot. This will help your baby feel comfortable, and they’ll be more likely to cooperate.

5. Dress Your Baby in Simple, Soft Clothing

For newborn photoshoots, simplicity is key. The focus should be on your baby’s sweet face, tiny hands, and feet, not on complicated outfits. Avoid clothes with busy patterns, logos, or tight elastic bands. Instead, dress your baby in soft, stretchy fabrics that won’t leave marks on their skin.

If you have specific outfits you’d like your baby to wear for certain shots, bring those along. Many parents love to include special pieces such as blankets, headbands, or hats. However, less is more when it comes to clothing during a newborn session. Keep it simple, soft, and comfortable for your baby.

As part of my newborn photoshoots, I also provide props, wraps, and outfits that are specifically designed for newborns. These are all gentle on your baby's skin and chosen to complement the soothing, minimalistic aesthetic of the session.

6. Pack Essentials for the Photoshoot

A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to newborn photoshoots. Here’s a checklist of essential items to bring to the session:

Baby essentials:
Diapers, wipes, extra clothing (just in case of accidents), pacifiers, and any comfort items (such as a soft toy or blanket).
Feeding supplies:
If you’re bottle-feeding, bring enough formula or pumped milk. If you’re breastfeeding, be prepared to nurse during the session.
Snacks and drinks for you:
Don’t forget to take care of yourself! You’ll likely be spending a few hours at the photoshoot, so having snacks and a drink on hand is a great idea.
Relaxation items:
If it helps you feel comfortable, bring a pillow, blanket, or anything else that will allow you to relax during the shoot.

7. Prepare Your Home or Studio

If you’re having the photoshoot in a studio, you won’t need to worry too much about preparing the space. But if your photographer is coming to your home, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Choose a quiet, well-lit area:
Natural light is ideal for newborn photos, so choose a room with plenty of soft, natural light. If you don’t have a room with great light, let your photographer know so they can bring lighting equipment.
Keep the room warm:
Newborns can get cold easily, especially when they’re undressed for photos. Ensure the room is warm and comfortable so your baby stays relaxed.
Clear any clutter:
Tidy up the area where you’ll be taking photos so the focus stays on your baby. It’s always nice to have the background clean and free of distractions.

8. Be Ready to Relax and Enjoy the Experience

The most important tip for a successful newborn photoshoot is to relax and enjoy the experience. Your photographer is there to guide you through the session, making sure everything goes smoothly and capturing the sweet, fleeting moments of your baby’s early days.

While it’s natural to feel a little nervous or worried about how the session will go, remember that your baby is in good hands. Most newborn sessions take two to three hours, which allows time for feeding, soothing, and adjusting poses. Take this time to enjoy being with your baby, knowing that you’ll leave with beautiful memories to cherish forever.

What Other Parents Have Said About Preparing for a Newborn Session

As a photographer, one of the most fulfilling parts of my job is hearing from parents about their experience preparing for and enjoying their newborn photoshoots. Every family’s journey is unique, and it’s always heartwarming to hear how much parents appreciate the planning process and the results of their sessions.

Here’s what a few parents have shared about preparing for their newborn photoshoots:

Sarah & Tom, parents to baby Lucy:

"I was so nervous about the photoshoot at first. I had heard stories about how hard it can be to get a newborn to cooperate. But from the moment we walked in, Adele made us feel completely at ease. She walked us through the entire process beforehand, explaining what to expect and how we could best prepare. It was great knowing that we didn’t have to stress over every little detail, everything was taken care of. The photos turned out absolutely gorgeous, and I’m so grateful for how smooth the experience was. The checklist really helped me prepare and feel ready, especially with the feeding and napping tips."

Laura & James, parents to baby Theo:

"The biggest concern I had was making sure Theo was comfortable during the shoot. I had heard that newborn photoshoots can take a while, and I wasn’t sure how we’d manage feeding and keeping him calm. But Adele’s guidance made all the difference. She told us how to time everything to keep him well-fed and sleepy, which helped the session go smoothly. It was so reassuring to know we had all the essentials packed, and we didn’t have to worry about any last-minute rush. It was a lovely experience from start to finish. I would recommend this to any parent."

Charlotte & Liam, parents to baby Noah:

"I never realized how important the details of the photoshoot were until I started preparing. Adele’s checklist was a lifesaver, it was so thorough, and it helped us think of everything we might need. From dressing Noah in the right clothes to planning around his feeding and nap schedule, everything fell into place. Adele was so understanding and patient with us. She knew exactly how to work with Noah’s natural sleep patterns, and that made the session feel stress-free. I was able to just relax and enjoy the process."

Emily & Mark, parents to baby Mia:

"Preparing for a newborn photoshoot felt a little overwhelming at first, but after speaking with Adele and reading her checklist, I felt so much better. She explained the entire process in detail and gave us great tips on how to manage Mia’s routine for the session. She also took the time to answer all our questions about posing and how we could best interact with Mia during the shoot. The results were breathtaking, every photo was so natural and beautiful. It was clear that Adele really knows her stuff. It’s so important to work with someone who understands newborns and knows how to make both the baby and the parents feel comfortable."

Hannah & Michael, parents to twins Sophie & Oliver:

"We were a bit anxious about having a photoshoot with twins, but Adele was amazing. She made sure everything was perfectly set up to ensure both babies were comfortable and safe. Her guidance on timing feedings and naps made the session feel much more manageable. The checklist really helped us get organized, and having everything ready for the shoot took so much stress off our shoulders. We’re so glad we booked with Adele – the photos are more than we could have imagined."

Grace & Adam, parents to baby Lily:

"The photoshoot was a wonderful experience, and it was all thanks to Adele’s expertise. She helped us plan everything so that Lily was fed and settled before we started, which meant she was calm and sleepy during the session. It was so nice to feel like we were in the hands of someone who truly understands newborns. Adele’s professionalism and the way she handled Lily with such care made all the difference. I felt like I could really trust her to capture the best moments."

These heartfelt testimonials are just a glimpse of what parents say about their experience preparing for and enjoying their newborn photoshoots. The process can feel daunting, but it’s always worth it when you have a trained and experienced photographer guiding you every step of the way. It’s not just about creating beautiful photos—it’s about ensuring the experience is stress-free, comfortable, and tailored to your baby’s needs.

Remember, every newborn is unique, and each session is designed to fit your baby's temperament and comfort. By following the tips in this checklist and working with an experienced photographer, you’re setting yourself up for a beautiful and memorable photoshoot that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

About Me

I’m Adele Morris, a multi-award-winning newborn photographer with years of experience capturing the beauty and innocence of newborns. As a mum of three myself, I understand how precious these early moments are, and I am committed to providing a safe, comfortable, and personalized experience for both you and your baby.

I’ve undergone specialized training in newborn safety posing and hold a Licentiate qualification in photography, which ensures that every session is conducted with the utmost care and attention to detail. It’s not just about capturing a photograph; it’s about telling your unique story through timeless, high-quality images.