How to Prepare for Your Newborn Photography-Newborn Photography Session Preparation

A Complete Guide for Parents

Welcoming a newborn is one of life’s most beautiful moments—and those first days pass by faster than anyone expects. Preparing properly for your newborn photography session helps ensure a calm experience and timeless, heartfelt images you’ll cherish forever.

As a newborn photographer, my goal is not only to create beautiful portraits, but to guide you every step of the way so you feel confident, relaxed, and fully taken care of. Below is everything you need to know before your session.

What to Expect From Your Newborn Session

Newborn sessions are slow, gentle, and baby-led. Most sessions last 2–3 hours, sometimes longer if your baby needs extra time for feeding or soothing. There is absolutely no rush—your baby’s comfort always comes first.

The studio is kept warm and cozy to help your baby sleep comfortably, so parents should plan to dress in layers.

Preparing Your Baby for the Session-newborn photography session preparation

The biggest key to those soft, squishy, sleepy newborn images is a well-fed and awake baby.

Before You Arrive

• Feed your baby 2–3 hours before your session

• Do your best to keep baby awake beforehand

• No pacifiers for a few hours prior if possible

• Tickling toes and letting baby fuss briefly is perfectly okay

Don’t worry if your baby falls asleep during the drive—this is completely normal and expected.

When You Arrive

Plan on feeding your baby as soon as you get to the studio. Sometimes babies don’t want to eat right away, and that’s okay—we’ll simply begin and follow your baby’s cues.

Sessions naturally include:

• Feeding breaks

• Diaper changes

• Snuggles and soothing time

💡 Tip: If you have the green/blue/orange Soothie pacifier from the hospital, please bring it. It’s flexible and won’t leave marks on baby’s face.

What Parents Should Wear (Mom & Dad)

You are an important part of your baby’s story, and parent images are always encouraged.

For Dads

• Solid-colored shirt or long-sleeve sweater

• No logos or prints

• Jeans or neutral pants photograph best

• Clean, trimmed nails (hands will be visible!)

For Moms

• Neutral colors and simple designs work beautifully

• Studio wardrobe options are available, or feel free to bring your own

• Avoid chipped nail polish

• Dresses are styled to photograph like flattering tops

• I photograph using flattering angles and light—most parent images are from the chest up

The goal is timeless, natural, and authentic—nothing trendy or distracting.

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Including Siblings in Newborn Photos

Sibling images are a beautiful way to document this season of your family’s life.

For Sisters

• Neutral colors

• Snug-fitting tank tops or provided wraps

• Natural hair (no large bows or headbands)

• No chipped nail polish

For Brothers

• Snug jeans with no shirt preferred

• If uncomfortable shirtless, a fitted white t-shirt works well

• For family images, a plain fitted t-shirt is perfect

The more neutral the styling, the more timeless your images will remain.

Studio Location & Arrival Information

Studio Address:20788 Holyoke Ave, Lakeville

Parking & Entry

• Street parking or the lot between the studio and Ace Hardware

• Handicap ramp leads directly to the studio door

• Studio entrance is located behind Tapestry Coffee

• Look for the logo on the door

• Enter, turn left, head up the steps, and come right in

If the door is locked for any reason, please call:📞 952-426-0051

You may park anywhere in the lot.

Trust the Process

Many parents arrive saying, “My baby slept all morning!”—and yet newborns almost always settle beautifully once undressed, fed, and warmed. Trust me, this time of day is magic for newborn photos.

Your only job is to relax, love on your baby, and let me take care of the rest.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for your newborn photography session doesn’t require perfection—just a little planning and a willingness to slow down. These images will become treasured heirlooms, preserving details you’ll never want to forget.

If you’re expecting or have recently welcomed a baby, newborn sessions are best scheduled early—availability is limited.

✨ I can’t wait to document this fleeting, beautiful chapter for your family.