Tips to Prepare for Your Newborn Session
Here are my top tips to help you prepare for a calm, beautiful newborn session that captures your family just as you are with love, tenderness, and timeless connection.
Welcoming a new baby is one of the most beautiful and emotional seasons in life and documenting those first few days is a gift you’ll treasure forever. As an experienced newborn photographer in Oklahoma City and Edmond, I know how important it is for parents to feel prepared and relaxed when the day of the session arrives.
1. Book Early
To ensure availability, it’s best to reserve your session during your second trimester. Once your baby arrives we will finalize the exact session date. My calendar fills quickly, so don’t wait!
2. Keep Baby Awake Before Your Session
Try to keep your baby awake for 1–2 hours before the session to help them sleep more deeply once we start. A bath often does the trick! Sleepy babies equals smoother posing and more peaceful portraits.
3. Feed Baby Right Before the Session
A full belly is key to a happy baby! Plan to feed your baby immediately before the session begins. I always allow time for feeding breaks as needed, so there’s no need to rush. Bring extra bottles or be prepared to nurse during the session. We’ll follow baby’s lead.
4. Dress Baby Simply
If possible, bring your baby in a loose simple zip-up sleeper to avoid clothing lines on their skin. Avoid onesies with tight socks or elastic. Most of the time, your little one will be wrapped or gently undressed for those timeless, natural photos. Don’t worry about outfits. I provide everything you need, including wraps and bows.
5. Prepare Siblings (if applicable)
If big brother or sister will be part of the session, let them know what to expect. I’ll make it fun, quick, and stress-free for them, think snuggles, kisses, and gentle sibling moments. Bringing along a favorite toy or snack can help, too! Sibling shots are often family favorites, nothing sweeter than a first cuddle!
6. Relax! You Don’t Need to Do a Thing
This might be the most important tip: You don’t have to do it all. I take care of every detail—from posing and wrapping baby safely to guiding your family through natural, connected moments. My goal is to create a peaceful, joy-filled experience for you.
7. Consider Your Artwork
Before the session, think about how you’d love to enjoy your images. Do you imagine a framed gallery wall? A handcrafted heirloom album? Let’s talk through your vision so I can photograph intentionally with your final artwork in mind. Together, we’ll turn your images into printed pieces you’ll treasure for generations.
Final Thoughts
Newborn photography is about more than cute poses—it’s about preserving the connection, the love, and the tiny details you’ll never want to forget. With intentional planning and guidance, your session will be relaxed, meaningful, and full of moments worth remembering. I hope these tips to prepare for your newborn session have been helpful!
Ready to book your session or have questions? Contact me I’m here to walk with you every step of the way.
If you would like to read other newborn blogs check them out here.
