Newborn Session Guide
A huge congratulations, and thank you so much for letting me capture these special moments with your little one! I can’t wait to create photos that you’ll love looking back on with your family for years to come. My style is super laid back and "lifestyle focused," which just means I’ll be capturing you being yourselves. I’ll give you a few gentle prompts to get those natural, real moments but most of the time, it’s all about you enjoying your baby and your family as you are.
Take a few minutes to check out the info below to help you prep for your session, it’ll make things feel super easy and relaxed!
WHAT TO WEAR
The big question for every session: "What do we wear?" Don’t stress I’m here to help! The most important thing is to wear something that feels like you. When you look back at these photos in 10 years, I want you to see yourself and feel like it’s a true reflection of who you were, not someone you barely recognise.
I love layers, textures and comfy clothes that let you relax and be present. Neutral or soft tones are perfect for newborn sessions because they keep things timeless and avoid any funky color casts on baby’s skin. If you can, skip deep black tops for parents, dark tones are totally fine, though! And yes, leggings are 100% okay. comfort is key.
If you need a second opinion or want ideas, just ask. I’m happy to help pull it all together!
Lighting
Good natural light is probably the one thing that makes the biggest difference in an in home session. Big windows in a bedroom, nursery, or lounge are ideal but every home is different and I'll always find something to work with.
When I arrive I'll have a scout around and guide you on the best spot. You don't need to stress about the light situation at all, that's my job!
Session length & booking
Newborn sessions can vary in length, and that’s totally okay. I only book one session a day so we can take our time and keep things calm and stress free. My top priority is making sure you feel relaxed and never rushed.
Most sessions last about two hours, which gives us plenty of time for feeding and changes etc. If it takes longer, thats totally fine and if baby is super sleepy, we might even wrap up a bit quicker.
This is such a special moment in your life, and I want the experience to feel just as perfect as the photos we create.
Lifestyle newborn sessions are best scheduled within the first two weeks, ideally between days 7-10. Around 10 days, babies tend to be more alert and easier to startle. Since those early days are when your baby is sleepiest, let me know within 2-3 days of their arrival so we can chat about how you’re feeling and find a time that works for you. I always recommend taking a few days to settle in, get to know your baby and ease into your new routine. This also gives me time to adjust my schedule, as newborn sessions are my priority.
Preparing for your session
Newborns love being in warm, cozy environments, so I recommend turning up the heat to a comfy level before I arrive. This helps your little one stay nice and warm while we work through the session and it also makes nappy changes easier (no worries in the hot summer months, of course!). If you’ve already picked out an outfit, it’s best to have baby dressed in it when I get there. Outfits with toes exposed work great for capturing those adorable little baby feet It’s always easier to wrap baby on top of their outfit than to undress them and make them cold!
A fed baby is usually a happy baby! If you can feed your little one about an hour before I arrive and again right when I get there, it’ll help keep their tummy full for most of the session. If you feed them in an outfit you want in the photos, we can jump right into the session as soon as I arrive or when baby falls asleep. If baby doesn’t feel like feeding before I arrive, no worries at all we will have plenty of time!
Before I arrive, please open all your blinds and curtains to let in as much natural light as possible. There’s no need to deep clean the entire house, I’m not here to judge! I’m a Mum of three, so I totally get it. However, if you can, try to declutter the spaces where we’ll be shooting, like clearing counters and floors. The less clutter, the better for these types of sessions. Also, when it comes to bedding, while colorful and patterned sheets are beautiful, I recommend sticking with something white or cream. Bright, bold colors can cast a tint on skin, which we want to avoid for the most flattering, clean shots. Simple whites or creams are always the best for a soft, timeless look.
FAQs
My baby is so fussy, I’m afraid she’ll cry the entire time you’re here
No need to worry! The beauty of in home sessions is that we can take things at your baby’s pace. We can stop whenever needed for breaks. Babies cry, it’s totally normal and it’s ok. We’ve got plenty of time to relax and regroup whenever you need.
My son/daughter is afraid of the baby or wants nothing to do with them
That’s totally normal, it’s a big adjustment for them. I never force kids to be in the photos and sometimes a little game like “can you show me baby’s nose?” works wonders. Other times, we just let them be. The goal is to keep it stress free for everyone.
My house isn’t Pinterest perfect
Same here! And it definitely wasn’t when I had little ones. The goal of an in home session is not about having a picture perfect house, it’s about capturing your family and the connection you share. All I really need is one room with good natural light, and we’re good to go.
We don't have a nursery set up, where will you photograph?
A nursery isn’t necessary for a beautiful session. We can use your couch, your bed or even the floor. It’s all about what feels right in your space.
Do you use or bring props?
I prefer to keep things simple. My focus is on capturing your family naturally and authentically, so I don’t bring props along. Less is more for these sessions!
We feel so awkward in front of the camera. Will you help pose us?
Absolutely! I totally get that feeling, I’m awkward in front of the camera too! I’ll guide you into poses and then help you interact with your family so the moments feel real and relaxed. We’ll make it fun, I promise!