There is no greater joy in this world than welcoming a new baby! You’ve spent months preparing for your little one’s arrival, and now it’s time to document this special season. At Savvy Shoots Photography, I specialize in creating images of your newborn in a comfortable, safe environment. To help you get the most out of your newborn photoshoot, here are some tips and instructions for how to prepare for your newborn photoshoot.

What to Expect during your Newborn Photoshoot

I love to focus on capturing photos of your newborn and your family. There are so many emotions that come with bringing a new baby home. Most newborn sessions include a mix of solo baby photos as well as family photos. I have taken multiple newborn photography classes to learn safe and effective poses for your family to make sure the session runs as smoothly as possible!

Babies tend to be happiest when they are all wrapped up, so I like to do these photos first. Using wrapping techniques, I can help pose your baby in a way that keeps them comfortable and supported. These wrapped shots are also great to help us get some detail shots.

I focus on capturing a mix of natural life-style poses as well as wrapped photos of baby. Whether we are meeting in your home or at a studio, I will bring a few props to include in your session. If you have a color preference, please let me know so I can plan accordingly!

Click here to see an example of a studio newborn session.

When to Book Newborn Photos

Newborn photography works best when your baby is between 5 to 14 days old. This is when they tend to sleep the most and are still flexible enough for those classic sleepy poses. It’s essential to book your photoshoot while you’re still pregnant. This gives us time to schedule your shoot around your baby’s arrival, ensuring we capture those delicate first days. Once your baby is born, reach out to confirm a date for the session.

Newborns are often most calm and sleepy after a full feeding, so it’s best to schedule your photoshoot during the morning when babies tend to be a bit more settled. Aim to avoid scheduling your session too late in the day, as babies can become fussy as they grow tired.

What to Wear for Newborn Photoshoot

Neutral-colored or pastel-toned clothing are ideal for you and baby. Avoid anything too busy or distracting.I provide a variety of wraps, hats, and blankets in soft, natural colors for your baby to wear. If you want to include any special items like a family heirloom or a personal touch, feel free to bring them along!

During a newborn session, we often begin with the solo poses of baby. Wrapping the baby nice and snug keeps them warm and happy, it makes for the sweetest photos!

For parents, simple, coordinating outfits is key. Opt for solid, neutral colors and avoid bright patterns or clothing with logos that can take attention away from your newborn. You’ll want to be in the photos too, and classic outfits will make the images timeless. Moms, you may want to consider a flowy dress to stay comfortable. A cute maternity dress may be the most comfortable!

Click here for some outfit ideas from my Amazon Storefront!

Preparing for Newborn for Photos

A well-fed, comfortable baby makes for the best photos. Be sure to feed your newborn just before the session to help them stay content and sleepy during the shoot. If you’re breastfeeding, take breaks as needed, and if you’re bottle-feeding, bring extra formula or breast milk to ensure you’re prepared for any mid-shoot feedings.

Wraps typically work best without a onesie. Bringing baby in an outfit that completely zips down can help us to easily undress baby down to the diaper for wrapped poses. Bring a pacifier along (even if your baby does not love it), as it can help soothe them between shots.

We want a sleepy baby for newborn photos. If you can keep the baby awake for a longer period of time before photos start, that is ideal. We will also work together to plan photos according to baby’s natural feeding/sleep schedule as much as possible.

Create a Calm Environment

A calm, quiet environment is essential for a successful newborn photoshoot. Babies are sensitive to their surroundings, so please plan to minimize distractions. 

For in-home newborn photoshoot, you’ll want to crank up the heat to at least 72 to keep the baby comfortable. For studio sessions, the studio heat will be cranked up. If we don’t feel overly warm, then the room isn’t warm enough! I often use a white noise machine to help comfort the baby. Between warmth and white noise, babies tend to feel calm during our photoshoot.

Newborn Photo Posing

When it comes to posing your newborn, don’t worry about a thing! I am experienced in handling newborns safely and gently, and I’ll guide you through the entire process. I use soft props and blankets to ensure your baby’s comfort and safety while I get those precious shots. My goal is to capture those adorable, curled-up poses and tender moments that reflect your baby’s personality, so you can sit back and enjoy the session.

If you have any specific ideas for poses or setups, I’d love to hear them ahead of time, but trust that I will take the lead to create a series of beautiful, natural photos.

Patience Is Key

Newborns tend to work on their own schedule, and sometimes they need breaks for feeding, diaper changes, or soothing. It’s important to approach the session with patience, as newborn photoshoots often take longer than other types of photography sessions. Often newborns eat a little bit more during their session since they are not used to all the movement, so be sure to bring extra formula if needed!

Prepare for Sibling Photos (If Applicable)

If you’re including older siblings in the photoshoot, I recommend scheduling them at the beginning or end of the session, as young children can become restless or bored during longer shoots. 

Prepare your older child with a small snack, toy, or book to keep them entertained while we capture the perfect sibling shot. I always strive to create a fun, relaxed atmosphere so that everyone feels comfortable and enjoys the experience.

Booking Local Newborn Photography

Lastly, remember that this photoshoot is all about celebrating the new life you’ve created. Take a deep breath, relax, and enjoy the experience. It’s a chance for you and your baby to bond while we capture beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.

As a metro Detroit newborn photographer, I love working with you and your family! I have taken newborn photography classes to understand newborn safety and wrapping techniques so you can res assured you’ll be taken care of!

I can’t wait to help you capture these precious moments! If you have any questions or concerns before your newborn photoshoot, don’t hesitate to reach out. At Savvy Shoots Photography, I’m here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring your session is smooth, enjoyable, and full of beautiful memories.