A Checklist of What to Bring to Your Newborn Session

Preparing for your newborn session shouldn’t be a stressful experience! One of the reasons I love offering in-studio newborn portraits at my Saratoga Springs studio is that I’m able to take care of so much for my families. I want their newborn session to be something joyful, low stress, and enjoyable. So today, I’ve put together a quick checklist of what you should bring to your newborn sessions! You might be surprised that it’s just a few items…

Here’s what to bring to your newborn session:

A zip-up sleeper. Dress your little one in a zip-up sleeper (no snaps) so that it is easy to undress them when you arrive.

Pacifiers… Avoid a wub-a-nub or any pacifier with a stuffed animal attached to it, and just bring a plain pacifier. I like the Soothies brand, the green ones that the hospital uses because they’re easy to use and won’t leave any marks around baby’s face as they’re using them!

Milk! Be prepared to nurse or feed a bottle during the session, and bring whatever you need to be comfortable.

Comfy clothes for mom & dad to change into after we finish family portraits. I recommend light layers because we keep the studio toasty for the baby, who is used to a constant 98 degrees inside of you!

Diapers. Most babies go through 2-3 diapers during their portrait session. Sometimes less, sometimes more. I keep newborn diapers in the studio that you are welcome to use, but it doesn't hurt to keep your diaper bag is well-stocked, too.

Patience. We work around the baby's mood and if they need breaks to eat, get changed, and be soothed, we take our sweet time and keep your little one comfortable. Some babies calm more easily than others, and some babies need a little extra time and attention to settle into the poses. Eventually all babies give in to the white noise, the shushing, the heat, and the power of a good swaddle, and I guarantee you that we will capture the most beautiful portraits of your little one even if they need a little longer to feel comfortable. Be patient and just remember that your baby is in good hands!

That’s it - that’s all you need to bring to your newborn session. I have everything else on site that you might need including both a baby and mama wardrobe, carefully chosen props and setup pieces, and even spaces for families to rest during our portraits. Being a new parent can be hard, but having a successful newborn session is easy!

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