Welcoming a newborn into your life is one of the most beautiful and life-changing moments. As a photographer, one of my favorite things to do is capture those early days—those tiny hands, the soft snuggles, and the sweet expressions that you’ll treasure forever. But newborn sessions come with a little preparation to ensure everything goes smoothly and that you get the best portraits possible. If you’re wondering how to get ready for your newborn session, here are some essential tips to ensure your baby is happy, calm, and ready to create beautiful memories.
1. Keep Baby Awake for at Least One Hour Before the Session
I know this might sound crazy, but keeping your newborn awake for at least an hour before our session will help tremendously! Babies often sleep deeply in the comfort of their home environment and in parent's arms. However, when they sleep right before a session, they can be unsettled when it’s time to start their session. By keeping your little one awake for an hour, you’ll help them be tired enough to fall into a nice, peaceful sleep once we begin. This also ensures that we can capture those calm, dreamy moments when they are peacefully being posed.
2. Give Baby a Bath to Help Keep Them Awake
If your baby tends to be a little too sleepy before the session, a lukewarm bath can work wonders to help keep them awake and alert. Not only will it help wake them up a bit, but it also provides a great bonding moment before the photoshoot begins. A bath can soothe your little one while helping them stay awake long enough to ensure they’re ready to pose for photos when we start.
3. Give Your Baby a Big Feed Before Leaving
A well-fed baby is a happy baby—and a happy baby makes for much smoother photos! Giving your little one a big feed right before leaving for the session helps keep them calm, satisfied, and ready to snuggle. Babies will often fall alssep on the drive over which is perfect for when we begin! But don't worry, we always have lots of time for feeds throughout the sessions and snuggled with mama as well!
4. Why a Sleepy Baby at Home Might Be a Challenge
Even if your baby is the sleepiest little one at home, the unfamiliar environment and new experiences can tend to wake them. Babies are used to the comfort of their own space, and when they’re taken to a new place for a session, they may be more alert. If your baby sleeps deeply at home right before the session, they will likely be awake and unsettled once we start—especially since they’re not used to being undressed and posed for photos. Even though they may be sleepy at home, the change in environment and routine can cause them to feel a little more alert and fussy than expected. This is why keeping them awake beforehand helps ensure that they’re tired enough to sleep peacefully during our session. It’s all about creating the right balance of rest and alertness!
5. Trust Me, It Works!
I know these tips might sound a little crazy, but I promise, they really do work! I’ve worked with many families, and I’ve seen firsthand how these preparations make all the difference in getting the calm, dreamy portraits we’re after. While it may seem like a lot to do just before the session, keeping your baby awake, fed, and relaxed will help everything go smoothly—and lead to the best possible results!
6. Your Personalized Guide
To help you feel fully prepared for your newborn session, I provide a detailed guide to each of my clients. This guide outlines everything you need to know to ensure the session goes smoothly—from what to wear to tips on how to create the perfect environment at home. You’ll also get a breakdown of what to expect during the shoot so you’re not caught off guard. I’m here to guide you every step of the way so you can focus on enjoying this special time with your little one!
Final Thoughts
I want your newborn session to be a relaxing, memorable experience, and a little preparation can go a long way in making that happen. By keeping your baby awake for at least an hour, giving them a big feed, and using a bath to help them stay alert, you’re setting up the perfect foundation for a peaceful and successful session. I’m here to help you create beautiful, timeless memories that you’ll treasure forever.
If you have any questions or need more details on how to prepare, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m so excited to capture these special moments for you and your family!
All my love,
Joanna xxoo
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