08/28/2026
Here are my 5 tips for a calmer newborn session:
1. Preparation starts BEFORE session day.
A pre-session consultation allows us to plan ahead. I guide my parents through what to expect, how to prepare baby, and what weâll do once they arrive. The less we have to figure out on session day, the calmer the experience can be.
2. A little awake time can help.
On the morning of the session, I may recommend a bath, some diaper-only time, talking to baby, and gentle interaction to encourage a little awake time before the session. We never force baby to stay awakeâif baby needs to sleep, we follow their cues.
3. Plan feeding around the session.
A comfortably full baby is often a content baby. Depending on babyâs normal feeding schedule, I guide parents on when to feed before arriving or once theyâre at the studio. We never delay a hungry babyâs feeding just for photos.
4. Have a workflow ready.
This one is for the photographer! Before baby arrives, my sets, wraps and props are already planned and ready. I organize poses and transitions to minimize unnecessary handling and keep baby warm and comfortable throughout the session.
5. Follow BABY, not the schedule.
This might be the most important one. Every newborn is different. If baby needs to eat, we feed. If baby needs to be held, we pause. If a pose isnât working, I move on. A calm newborn session comes from patienceânot rushing to complete a shot list.
And remember: these tips can help us prepare, but every baby is different. My goal is never to force a âperfectâ sessionâitâs to create beautiful images while keeping babyâs comfort at the center of the experience.
