How to Prepare for Your Newborn Photography Session: A Complete Guide for Parents

Preparing for your baby's first professional photoshoot is an exciting milestone, but it's completely normal to feel a little nervous too. Many parents worry about whether their baby will sleep, what they should wear, what to pack, or whether everything will go according to plan.

The good news is that you don't need to stress.

At Papillon Photography, every newborn photography session is designed to be calm, relaxed and completely baby-led. Babies set the pace, and there's always plenty of time for feeding, cuddles and comforting whenever it's needed.

To help you feel prepared, I've put together this guide covering everything you need to know before your newborn photography session. Not only that, I will also provide you with a full pdf on preparing for your session when booking, that includes everything you need to know, including what to eat when you are a breastfeeding mom to ensure baby is in their best possible state for a smooth successful session.

Before Your Session

One of the best ways to ensure a relaxed experience is simply arriving without feeling rushed.

Try to leave home a little earlier than you think you'll need to. Babies often decide they need one last feed or nappy change just before leaving, and that's completely normal.

If you've already booked your session during pregnancy, your date will usually be confirmed once your baby arrives. Newborn photography sessions are typically scheduled within the first 5–14 days after birth, when babies are naturally sleepier and curl comfortably into those beautiful newborn poses.

Don't Worry If Your Baby Doesn't Sleep

This is by far the biggest concern I hear from new parents.

"What if my baby won't sleep?"

Please don't worry.

Years of experience have taught me that every baby is different. Some sleep for almost the entire session, while others prefer to stay awake for a little while before settling. Some babies are just to curious and will watch me work the entire session.

Your baby's comfort will always come first.

There is never any pressure, and sessions are never rushed. We simply allow plenty of time for feeding, cuddling and settling your little one naturally.

Some of my favorite photographs have actually been of wide-awake babies making beautiful eye contact with the camera.

Feed Your Baby Before the Session

A full tummy usually helps babies feel content and sleepy.

If possible, try to feed your baby shortly before arriving at the studio or once you arrive if needed.

Please don't worry if feeding doesn't go exactly to plan. We always allow time for additional feeds throughout the session whenever your baby needs them.

Whether you're breastfeeding, bottle feeding or combination feeding, your baby's needs always comes first.

Dress Baby in Loose, Comfortable Clothing

Loose-fitting clothing that opens from the front is ideal.

This makes changing your baby much easier without disturbing them too much once they're asleep.

Avoid clothing with tight socks or elastic waistbands immediately before your session, as these can leave temporary marks on your baby's delicate skin.

What Should Parents Wear?

Parents are an important part of the story, and I always encourage you to be included in a few photographs.

Soft neutral colours such as white, cream, beige, oatmeal, light grey and muted earth tones photograph beautifully and keep the focus on your family rather than your clothing.

Simple outfits without large logos, bold patterns, text or bright colours create timeless images you'll love for years to come. Avoid them if possible.

The most important thing is choosing clothing that feels comfortable and reflects your family's style.

Can Brothers and Sisters Join?

Absolutely!

Including siblings creates some of the most meaningful images from your session.

Young children sometimes need a little extra time to warm up, and that's perfectly okay. We work at their pace, keeping the experience fun and relaxed while capturing those precious first moments together. My favorite phrase has to be that Kids will be Kids.

What Should You Bring?

Most parents are surprised by how little they actually need.

I provide a carefully selected collection of wraps, blankets, bonnets, headbands and beautiful newborn props, so there's no need to bring your own unless there's something special you'd like included.

I'd recommend bringing:

• Extra nappies

• Bottles if bottle feeding

• Formula if required

• Dummy (even for babies that normally don't take them)

• Extra milk

• Burp cloths

• A spare outfit for baby

• Any sentimental item you'd love included in your photographs

Everything else is taken care of.

Relax and Enjoy the Experience

Your newborn photography session isn't just about creating beautiful photographs.

It's about slowing down.

Taking a breath.

Soaking in those tiny fingers, sleepy stretches and little yawns that change so quickly in the first few weeks of life.

These moments pass faster than any of us expect, and my goal is to preserve them in a way that feels natural, timeless and full of love.

You don't need to worry about posing, calming your baby or making everything perfect.

That's my job.

You simply get to enjoy this special chapter with your newest family member. All happy tears are welcome here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my baby cries?

Babies cry—it's completely normal. We simply pause, feed, cuddle and settle them before continuing if necessary, also do know that your baby will most likely cry, it's a baby.

What if my baby has baby acne or flaky skin?

Please don't worry. These are incredibly common in newborns and can be gently retouched during the editing process while still keeping your baby's skin looking natural.

What if we're running late?

Just let me know. I completely understand that life with a newborn is unpredictable, and we'll work together to make your session as stress-free as possible. However, please do plan on leaving your home earlier than you think is needed. Being too late for your session could impact our workflow or even lead to cancelling / forfeiting depending how late you run, so it is important to be in communication with me.

Can we include special items?

Of course. Whether it's a handmade blanket, a sentimental teddy bear or a family heirloom, I'd be honoured to include meaningful items whenever possible.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for your newborn photography session doesn't need to be complicated.

The most important thing is simply arriving ready to enjoy these precious first moments with your baby.

Everything else—from keeping your little one comfortable to creating timeless portraits—is taken care of.

If you're expecting or your little one has recently arrived, I'd love to welcome you to Papillon Photography and help you preserve these memories for generations to come.

I can't wait to meet your growing family.