8 Tips to Prepare for your Newborn Portrait Session | Saratoga Springs Newborn Photographer

I know this whole "planning a newborn session" thing can feel a little overwhelming—after all, it’s your first time and there’s so much to think about! But don’t worry, you’re in good hands. I’ve had the pleasure of guiding hundreds of families through their newborn portraits over the past 12+ years in my Saratoga Springs studio. I’m here to make this as stress-free and enjoyable as possible. From choosing the right outfits to prepping your little one (and yourself) for the session, I’ll walk you through every step. Here’s my top tips to prepare for your studio newborn session so that you can enjoy this truly special process! 

Before Your Session

Plan your outfits for the family portraits before the baby is here. 

Once you’re home with a newborn, you’re not going to have time to run to the store and try a bunch of tops or dresses on. Figure out what everyone is going to wear ahead of time to make it that much easier when it comes to the week of your session. I recommend considering working with a photographer who offers a client closet where moms can choose from gorgeous dresses in flattering cuts and fabrics that look amazing on postpartum mamas. Being able to make your session even more stress-free is one of the main reasons I love being able to offer my baby and mama wardrobes! 

Preparing Your Baby for Portraits

Your little one is the star of the show, so we want them to be comfortable during your time in the studio! To help them stay cozy, I wrap newborn babies in the variety of wraps, hats, and headbands I have in the studio. But there’s a few things you can do at home to help your little one feel sleepy and ready to curl up for us:

Give your baby a sponge bath before our session. Don’t forget the lotion after you’re done! I recommend dressing your little one in a onesie that has a zipper or snaps up the front, so we don’t have to disturb them if they’re asleep when you arrive. 

What to do 2-3 Hours Before Your Session

A few hours before your session, it is essential that you help your baby get sleepy enough to pose for us. Feed your little one 2-3 hours before arriving for your session. Keep your baby awake and alert during that time too. Try not to bundle your baby up or they’ll fall right asleep! Once you arrive, plan to give your baby another feeding. They should be ready to slip into the famous “milk coma” once you’re done and nice and sleepy for our posing! 

Bring a Pacifier

Even if you don’t plan to use a pacifier regularly at home, I recommend having one on hand for your newborn session. “Soothies” (the green pacifiers) are great for newborns! They can work wonders for soothing your baby during portraits, so consider grabbing one one for your time in the studio. 

During Your Newborn Portraits 

Sit back & relax

As soon as your little one is asleep, I will ask to take over with your baby. Sit back, relax, and just enjoy some quiet time. Don’t worry about anything! One of the reasons I ask to take over moving your little one is because babies can smell their moms, which can unsettle them. They pick up on stress, so it’s important to just take a deep breath. I’m a mom of two and have been photographing babies for over 12 years, so I promise I know what I’m doing! The reality is that babies will fuss and cry during our time in the studio. Clients have dubbed me “the baby whisperer” and I’ll use my many techniques to help soothe and calm your little one. 

Your little one’s safety is my top priority and I will never put your baby into an unsafe position - just for a portrait. I may ask you to help hold their head or support them. It’s a fun opportunity for us to create images you’ll treasure forever. 

Cleanliness

Pee and poop will happen during your newborn session. It happens and I’m always prepared for it. Please don’t be embarrassed! It’s natural and I promise you, I’m ready for it. 

Leave your cameras at home

To ensure that I can capture the best images for your family, I respectfully ask that you leave your cameras at home. Trust me to capture your portraits - and the ones that will beat any cell phone photo you could take. I truly want you to be able to relax in our warm and cozy studio while I document your precious little baby! (PS. The studio WILL be warm! I keep it nice and toasty for your little one so they’re comfortable - so just be prepared!).

After Your Session

If you know me at all, you know that I love the part after your session most of all, because going through your baby’s portraits is a truly magical process! I love seeing how we’re going to turn in whatever we captured into heirloom artwork that your family will treasure forever. You can expect a sneak peek online within a few days of the session. Please feel free to share it and tag me - but do not screenshot or alter the image in any way. 

Within 2 weeks of your session, I will come visit you at home. Together, we’ll design your birth announcements, as well as any heirloom keepsakes you’ve chosen. I love helping you figure out where you might want to display your new portraits! 

I hope this guide has helped take some of the guesswork out of planning your newborn session! Remember, this is a special time, and I’m here to help make sure you have beautiful, timeless images to cherish for years to come. There’s no need to stress about the little details—I’ve got the experience to make sure everything runs smoothly so you can focus on your sweet baby. If you have any questions or need any additional tips, feel free to reach out. I can’t wait to capture these precious moments for you and your family!

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