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How to Prepare Older Siblings for Their New Baby Brother or Sister’s Newborn Photography Session
- Janette Osvay
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
Welcoming a new baby into the family is an exciting and emotional time—especially for older siblings. At our studio, one of our favourite parts of a newborn session is capturing the bond between the new baby and their big brother or sister. Those first cuddles, sweet smiles, and tiny hands wrapped around fingers become some of the most treasured images for families.
To help you get the most out of your newborn session, here are our top tips for preparing older siblings so the experience is smooth, enjoyable, and full of genuine connection.
1. Talk to Them About What Will Happen
Children feel more comfortable when they know what to expect. A day or two before the session:
Explain that they’ll be taking special photos with their new baby.
Let them know that the studio is a calm, quiet place and that they’ll get to hold or sit close to their sibling.
Reassure them that they don’t have to “perform”—we simply want them to be themselves.
Keeping it simple and positive helps minimise nerves on the day.
2. Allow Plenty of Time Before the Newborn and Family Session
Rushing can increase stress for both parents and siblings. If possible:
Wake up with a relaxed morning routine.
Give siblings time for breakfast, cuddles, or quiet play before coming in.
If they attend school or daycare, consider scheduling the session on the weekend or taking them out for the day, if it is possible. The most important thing is to make sure that they are not tired and don't feel like they are supposed to be at school or daycare instead. Avoid timing your session for after school or daycare. Newborn babies and small children tend to be more unsettled later in the day.
Children who feel unhurried are far more cooperative and confident during photos.
3. Bring a Few Familiar Comforts
A favourite toy, book, or snack (mess-free, to keep clothes clean) can help siblings feel at ease in the studio. These familiar items give them something positive to hold or enjoy during breaks.
We also love when children bring a gift they prepared for the baby—like a drawing or a soft toy—because it makes for a beautiful storytelling moment in their portraits.
4. Keep Their Outfit Simple
Neutral, soft colours work best for sibling portraits. Avoid busy patterns and logos so the focus stays on the connection between your children.
If you’re unsure what works well, we’re always happy to guide you. We also have a selection of outfits in the studio that photograph beautifully and keep the sibling portraits looking classic and timeless.
5. Prepare Them to Be Gentle with the Newborn Baby
Younger siblings sometimes don’t understand how fragile newborns are. Before the session:
Show them how to touch the baby gently.
Practise safe holding positions while you support the baby.
Explain that the photographer may guide them with poses to keep everyone safe.
Safety is always our priority, and we’ll never ask a child to do something they are not comfortable with.
6. Manage Expectations (Theirs and Yours!)
It’s completely normal for siblings to feel a mixture of excitement, confusion, or even jealousy during the newborn stage. They may not want to pose at first—and that’s okay.
Our sessions are designed around patience. We work at their pace, engage them with small tasks, and make them feel like they have a “big job” to do.
Some of the most heart-melting images come from candid moments, not perfectly posed ones.
7. Plan for Their Attention Span
Children usually do best at the beginning of the session. We’ll start with sibling and family photos before moving on to the baby-only part.
This allows older siblings to relax afterwards with a parent, enjoy some snacks, or even head home with Dad if needed.
8. Stay Positive and Encourage Them
Children feed off the energy of the adults around them. A calm, positive atmosphere helps the session run smoothly. Avoid pressure, bribes, or threats—they often work against genuine expressions.
Instead, use praise such as:“You’re doing such a great job being a big brother!”“The baby loves when you’re near them!”
It makes siblings feel important and included.
9. Trust Your Photographer
With more than 15 years of experience working with families, we’ve photographed every type of sibling dynamic—from shy toddlers to super-energetic preschoolers and proud older kids.
We know how to guide them gently, keep them engaged, and create beautiful images that highlight their bond with the new baby. Your job is simply to relax and enjoy the experience.
Final Thoughts
Preparing older siblings for a newborn photoshoot doesn’t have to be stressful. With a bit of planning and the right guidance, the session becomes a beautiful experience for the whole family. The images captured during these moments will become priceless heirlooms—celebrating not only the arrival of your new baby, but the beginning of a lifelong relationship between siblings.
If you have any questions or would like advice tailored to your children, feel free to contact us. We’re here to make your newborn session a joyful, memorable experience.
If you would like to see more of our newborn work, please visit our newborn gallery.
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