How to prepare for your newborn photoshoot

Thank you for trusting me to capture this incredibly special season for your family. I photograph both sleepy newborns and older babies, and each session is designed to be calm, slow, flexible and completely baby-led. This guide will help you feel prepared and relaxed on the day of your session.

When to Schedule

Traditional newborn sessions are typically photographed within the first 7–21 days after birth. During this time, babies are sleepier and more comfortable being gently posed. However, beautiful newborn-style images can still be created with older babies.

Preparing Your Baby

Feed baby right before the session (ideally in studio). A full tummy helps baby settle into a deeper sleep.

Keep baby awake beforehand. Try to keep baby awake for 1–2 hours prior with a bath, diaper change, or gentle play.

Dress baby loosely. Avoid tight clothing or socks that may leave marks on the skin.

Mess is normal. Accidents happen and are completely expected during newborn sessions.

What to Bring (Studio Sessions)

• Extra diapers and wipes

• Feeding supplies (bottle, formula, pumped milk, pacifier if used)

• Burp cloth

• Any sentimental items you would like included

What to Wear

For a timeless and cohesive look, choose neutral tones such as white, cream, beige, soft gray, or muted pastels. Avoid bold patterns, logos, and bright colors. Soft textures like knits and linen photograph beautifully.

Moms: Light, natural makeup and loose-fitting tops are recommended.

Dads: Solid tops or long sleeves create a clean, classic look. NO HATS

Preparing Your Home (Lifestyle Sessions)

Warm the room, open curtains for natural light, and lightly tidy main spaces. No need for perfection—your home should feel comfortable and lived-in.

Relax & Enjoy

Newborn sessions are intentionally unhurried. Time is built in for feeding, soothing, and cuddles. Your only job is to relax and enjoy these first moments together.

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How to prepare for in home Newborn Photoshoot?

Having a brand-new baby is the most beautiful thing in the world that we are blessed to experience in life. But this blessing is also one of the hardest few months in your life. Believe me, as a mom of two I still remember all the struggles of newborn stage and postpartum. That's why I want you to feel prepared for what to expect during the session with newborn. Either at home or a studio there is a few things you can do get ready.

Book your session ahead of time to make sure there will be available slot.

Once booked please take your time to fill out my questionnaire. All the answers are only for my information so I can provide safe environment during the session and be prepared for any medical emergencies that could happen.

My newborn sessions take place always in the morning between 8am-12pm. Photoshoot should last about 3 hours, but I won't be rushing the baby. He/she is the BOSS and I will always respect that. We are dealing here with the tiniest little people and sometimes it takes a little longer for them to settle down. They are new to this world and learning and growing every day! DO NOT STRESS if baby is getting fussy. They feel your energy. Please trust the process and let me do the magic.

Please keep your baby awake at least an hour before the session. Change the diaper, put on an outfit you want baby to wear during the session and plan your feeding to be done right before your session starts. I should arrive by the end of your feeding, approx. 15 minutes prior the photoshoot. You will still need to take time to burp the baby. If you are having in studio session - please arrive early to feed baby on the spot.

After I arrive, I will need to quickly see the rooms where I will be shooting to assess the amount of space I'm working with and if it's safe environment for the baby. Then I will bring in the equipment, props and set up. Everything should take no longer than 15 minutes, so I will be ready to start our session.

1. During the session we will do lifestyle and posed pictures, unless there was a different request. I highly recommend you to send me pictures of your inspiration to make sure that we're on the same page.
2. I am providing props based on the questionnaire I sent you and all of the information/inspiration you had provided. I am always providing wraps - need to know your colors.
3. In Studio session posed pictures are taken on beanbag.
4. During at home session, posed pictures are taken on the couch, master bedroom bed, crib in the nursery - depending on amount of natural light we are working with.

The Space

Do not worry about pile of laundry in the living room or overflowing sink. Newborn stage is hard, and you need to focus on the baby - I really do understand that. No judgement here.

We need a little bit of uncluttered space and nice big window to provide natural light. It would be great to have master bed emptied of stuff and the crib.

What to wear?

The answer is - Anything comfortable. Keep rule "LESS IS MORE''. Keep the colors neutral if possible. Great idea would be family matching pajamas or white/black shirt, mom could even use a cute robe.

Please avoid flashy/big jewelry pieces, it could harm the baby.

Having a second outfit for everyone would be a great idea in case of any accidents.

Keep in mind the type of bra or tank top you will be wearing in case you would like more intimate, skin to skin pictures.

Please avoid anything with graphics and words. Please do not wear hats - they block the light which is essential for great photos.

Please put the baby in the outfit you would like to take pictures taken in. Then feed the baby. When I arrive - after the feeding and burping is done - I will swaddle baby and we will begin the session with wrapped pictures.

Helpful items to prepare:

• Boppy pillow
• Large neutral color blanket, white sheet
• Space heater
• Baby white noise machine
• Yoga ball
• Bottle ready for a baby to snack if necessary
• Pacifier if baby takes it
• baby brush

Please let me know if you can't provide any of the above items, I will do my best to provide what's necessary.