EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT OUR NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHY SESSIONS - A step-by-step guide from the first inquiry to receiving your portraits

Welcoming a newborn into the world is a magical experience—tiny fingers, sleepy yawns, and cuddles that melt your heart. It’s no surprise that many parents want to freeze those first few days forever. That’s where newborn photography comes in. But what exactly does a newborn session involve? How do you prepare? And what happens after the shoot?

Whether you're a first-time parent or simply curious, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about our newborn photography sessions, step by step, in plain, simple language. Ready to learn more? Let’s dive in!

1. What Is Newborn Photography?

Newborn photography is a specialized type of portraiture that focuses on capturing a baby’s earliest days—usually within the first two weeks of life. Think of it as storytelling through images, freezing those fleeting, sleepy, curled-up poses before your baby starts growing (way too fast, might we add!).

2. Why Choose Professional Newborn Photography?

Sure, your phone has a great camera. But professional photographers bring a special touch—experience, creativity, and a trained eye. With over 15 years of experience and hundreds of babies photographed, we know how to soothe a newborn, work with natural and studio lighting, use props and accessories safely, and capture every tiny detail from their button noses to their wrinkly toes. It’s the difference between a quick snapshot and a timeless work of art.

3. When Is the Best Time to Schedule a Session?

The ideal window for newborn photography is between 8 to 14 days after birth. Babies are still sleepy, more flexible, and less sensitive to touch, which helps us achieve those classic poses you see in galleries. Of course, we understand life happens—if your baby is older, we can still capture beautiful images, just with a slightly different style.

4. How to Book a Newborn Photography Session

Booking is easy! We recommend contacting us during your second or third trimester to reserve your spot. We pencil in your due date and adjust the session as needed once the baby arrives. Booking early also gives us time to plan the session style and discuss your preferences.

5. What to Expect Before the Shoot

Before your session, we’ll have a quick consultation—either over the phone or via video call or in person in the studio. We’ll go over:

• Themes and colors you love

• What to bring and wear - we will style the whole family's outfits

• Any props or keepsakes you’d like to include

• Who’s coming to the shoot (parents, siblings, grandparents)

• How you would like to present your portraits - we will go through the options for printed art

You’ll also receive a preparation guide with tips on feeding and dressing the baby, and what to bring.

6. What Happens During the Session?

Imagine a cozy, calm room with soft music, warm blankets, and a lot of patience. The session is completely baby-led, meaning we go at their pace. If the baby needs feeding, cuddles, or a break—we pause. It’s a relaxed experience that prioritizes your newborn’s comfort and safety above all. You are welcome to take your time in our comfortable family room every time the baby, you, or small children need it.

7. How Long Does a Newborn Session Last?

Expect to spend 2 to 3 hours with us. Yes, it sounds long—but those cuddly poses take time! Babies often need breaks, and we allow space for feeds, diaper changes, and lots of soothing. Think of it as a little spa day for your baby!

8. Safety Comes First – Always

This can’t be stressed enough: your baby’s safety is our top priority. We use sanitized props, safe posing techniques, and always have a spotter nearby. We never force a pose. If baby says “nope,” we listen. We’re trained to ensure every session is gentle, respectful, and safe.

Before each newborn session, we clean and sanitize the studio and all other rooms the studio has: bathroom, hall and family room. We also clean and sanitize all the props and accessories and set them all up by the time you arrive so we can get started when your baby is ready.

9. Props, Outfits, and Themes

We provide a gorgeous collection of blankets, wraps, headbands, bonnets, baskets, and more. Want a nature-themed session? Or Harry Potter, or music, or teddy bears? Do you simply like classic white? A whimsical fairy tale vibe? We tailor the setup to your style. You’re also welcome to bring sentimental items like a family heirloom or a special toy or outfit knitted by grandma or auntie.

We generally don't limit the number of props, outfits, and accessories used during your session, but keep in mind that a newborn baby usually has the patience for a maximum of 5 different props and up to 3 different family portrait setups.

10. Can Siblings and Parents Join In?

Absolutely! Including parents and siblings makes the session even more special. We’ll guide you through easy, heartfelt poses that show connection and love. These become treasured family portraits you’ll pass down for generations.

We don't limit the number of family members present at the session, we just need to know it in advance, to be able to prepare and plan the session. We don't charge for extra persons present in the studio.

11. What to Wear for Family Portraits

Simple, soft-toned clothing works best—think whites, creams, pastels, or light greys. Avoid logos or busy patterns. Most importantly, choose comfort over fashion. We’re capturing emotion, not a fashion show. Bare feet, natural smiles, and genuine connection shine the brightest. Please be prepared with darker-toned outfits as well (it doesn't have to be black) for our popular dark hand-painted background, to create fine art style portraits.

12. In-home Newborn Sessions

We understand if you feel more comfortable in your own home with your newborn baby. We are more than happy to go to you and capture memories in the comfort of your home. We would bring some props, accessories, and lights with us to make sure that the images turn out perfect. Please note that there is an extra charge for this.

13. Choosing Your Final Images

After your session, you’ll be invited for a viewing appointment, about a week after your portrait shoot. We’ll present the best images from the shoot and help you choose your favorites. Whether you want a wall-worthy framed print, a keepsake album, or digital copies, we’ll guide you through the options.

14. The Magic of Editing and Retouching

Once your choices are finalized, the magic continues. We carefully edit each selected image to remove flakes, redness, or minor blemishes, while keeping the baby’s natural features intact. The goal? Polished, dreamy images that still feel real and true to life.

Editing your images will take us 1-2 weeks.

14. Prints, Albums, and Wall Art Options

Photos aren’t meant to live on hard drives. We offer luxurious print products designed to last a lifetime—fine art albums, canvas wall art, matted prints in beautiful portrait boxes, mounted and framed fine art wall portraits, and digital collections. These pieces are not just images, but heirlooms you’ll cherish forever. Please ask for our detailed pricing guide for options and prices.

Once your printed art is ordered, please allow 2-4 weeks for them to arrive.

15. Final Thoughts – Capturing Fleeting Moments

Newborns change daily. One moment they’re curled in your arms, and the next they’re crawling across the room. A newborn photography session is more than just pictures—it’s about preserving a moment in time you’ll never get back. These images will become part of your family story, told over and over again.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I bring to a newborn photography session?

Bring extra diapers, a pacifier (even if baby doesn't usually take one), a favorite blanket, and any personal props you'd like to include.

2. Can we reschedule if the baby is fussy or unwell?

Absolutely. We understand babies can have off days, and your session can be rescheduled at no extra cost if necessary.

3. Are newborn sessions done at home or in your studio?

Most sessions take place in our cozy studio, designed for comfort and safety. Home sessions may be available upon request.

4. How soon will we receive our final photos?

Typically, your images will be ready within 2-4 weeks, depending on the editing and product options you choose.

5. What if my baby doesn’t sleep during the shoot?No problem! We’re experienced in capturing both awake and sleepy newborns. Some of the most beautiful shots come from wide-eyed wonder.