What to Expect at Your Newborn Session
What to expect at your newborn session
Over the years, I’ve found that the best time to schedule your newborn’s first professional photo session is within the first three weeks. During this window, babies sleep more deeply, curl naturally into those adorable poses, and haven’t yet developed baby acne or infant colic that can make sessions more challenging. Between days 6 and 20, babies retain that wonderful flexibility from the womb, sleep more soundly, and haven’t yet developed the startle reflex that makes posing more difficult. I always recommend booking your Newborn Photography session while you’re still pregnant, ideally during your second trimester, so we can reserve a spot on my calendar based on your due date.
Schedule your session during the time of day when your baby is typically most settled. For many newborns, this falls between late morning and early afternoon, after a feeding. Avoid scheduling during their fussiest time of day, which for many babies occurs in the evening hours. The session itself typically lasts 1.5-2 hours, though I never rush families through the experience. Babies need time to eat, be soothed, and settle between poses.
One of the most important preparation steps is ensuring your baby arrives at the studio with a full tummy. I recommend feeding your newborn approximately 30-45 minutes before we begin photographing. A well-fed baby is a content baby, and content babies sleep more soundly during those posed shots that require careful positioning.
Plan to feed your baby again during the session. Most newborns will need to eat at least once, sometimes twice, during a 1.5-3 hour photo shoot. Bring everything you need for feeding, whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. Having your baby’s preferred feeding method readily available helps them stay calm and comfortable throughout our time together.
Newborns haven’t yet developed the ability to regulate their body temperature effectively, which is why I keep my studio quite warm during sessions—typically around 80-85 degrees Fahrenheit. While this might feel uncomfortably warm for adults, it’s perfect for keeping your baby cozy during those adorable poses.
Dress your baby in loose, comfortable clothing for the drive to the studio. Avoid outfits with tight elastic bands around the wrists, ankles, or waist, as these can leave marks on your baby’s delicate skin that may take 20-30 minutes to fade. Simple sleepers or kimono-style tops work beautifully. Remember, I provide all the props, wraps, and adorable outfits we’ll use during the session, so there’s no need to bring elaborate clothing.
Give your baby a gentle bath the evening before or morning of the session. Clean, fresh skin photographs beautifully and helps your newborn feel more comfortable. Use only mild, unscented baby soap to avoid potential skin reactions. Pat your baby dry gently rather than rubbing, which can irritate delicate newborn skin.
Avoid applying lotions, oils, or creams on the day of the session unless medically necessary. These products can create unwanted shine in photographs and may stain the delicate fabrics I use for wraps and backdrops. If your baby has dry skin that requires moisturizer, apply it sparingly the night before rather than on session day.
While I provide everything needed for the actual photo shoot at my Union Bridge, Maryland Newborn Studio, there are several items you might want to bring for your baby’s comfort!
Pack plenty of diapers and wipes—you’ll need more than you think. Bring a pacifier if your baby uses one, as it can be helpful for soothing between poses. Have a change of clothes available in case of diaper accidents.
For yourself, bring a light sweater or cardigan with a tank top or t-shirt underneath. Since I keep the studio warm for baby, you may want something to help you stay comfortable. Bring water and light snacks for yourself too. New parents often forget to take care of themselves during sessions, but staying hydrated and energized helps you enjoy the experience more fully!
Maryland Newborn Photographer | Frederick Maryland Newborn Photographer | Westminster Maryland Newborn Photographer
“Carrie is an incredibly talented photographer with a special touch for newborns. Her studio is warm, dim and cozy for her littlest clients, and she has a stunning collection of props and outfits.
I especially appreciated how calm and soothing she was with our daughter, and how efficiently she works. We were on borrowed time with a napping newborn, and we ended up with way more photos than we were anticipating. My only problem now is I’ll never be able to choose which ones to print!
I will recommend Carrie to all of my expectant friends, and hope to have another little tiny client for her in the future!” ~Leslie N, Facebook Review
Maryland Newborn Photographer | Frederick Maryland Newborn Photographer | Westminster Maryland Newborn Photographer