preparing for your studio session


Can a newborn photo shoot actually be stress-free? Absolutely! With just a little bit of prep, your baby will be warm, cozy, and ready to snooze through their session. Here is everything you need to know to sit back, relax, and enjoy a seamless studio experience.

Close-up of a newborn baby sucking their fingers with rosy cheeks and soft skin.
Close-up of tiny newborn baby feet peeking out from a soft brown knit blanket on a white surface.

timing + environment


Arrive sleepy & fed: Try to give your baby a full feed right before you leave the house or immediately upon arriving at the studio. A full belly equals a sleepy, content baby.


Keep baby awake beforehand: If possible, try keeping your baby awake for 45 to 60 minutes prior to your session time (a warm bath or quiet playtime works wonders).


Expect a warm studio: The studio will be kept at a cozy 75°F–78°F to keep your unswaddled baby comfortable and warm. Dress in light, breathable layers so you don't overheat!

outfits



Your wardrobe sets the tone for your entire studio session. Opt for light neutrals for a bright, airy gallery, dark neutrals for something rich and moody, or mix darks and lights for gorgeous depth and contrast.

A quick note on color: I strongly recommend sticking to neutrals or very soft, muted tones. Vibrant colors tend to bounce off my bright studio lights and cast unnatural color reflections onto your baby’s delicate skin. 


To keep your gallery looking timeless and true-to-life, follow these tips:


Shoot for a neutral/earthy palette: Cream, soft beige, taupe, camel, warm gray, or muted olive pair beautifully with my neutral studio style.


Keep it simple: Soft knits, linen shirts, simple tees, and flowy dresses work best. Avoid bold patterns, logos, and stiff collars.


Texture Over Prints: Visual interest comes from waffle weaves, ribbed knits, and soft fabrics rather than busy graphics.



Go Barefoot: Bare feet (or socks!) look natural and cozy on studio rugs and furniture.

Sleeping newborn baby wearing a brown bonnet hat, wrapped in a white textured blanket.

What to pack in your bag


Extra diapers and wipes (pack double what you think you need!)


Extra formula/bottles if bottle-feeding, and burp cloths for stray spit-up incidents.


A pacifier, if your baby takes one.


A change of clothes for toddlers (if applicable).


Props, if any, you'd like to include in our session (I've had parents bring month placards, special blankets and stuffed animals).

Arrival


Build in a buffer: If there is one universal truth about life with a newborn, it's that last-minute blowouts happen. Give yourself an extra 15-minute padding so you aren't rushing.


Come right on in: If we are shooting at my home studio, just knock on the front door when you pull up and I'll welcome you in!


Deep breath- you made it: Getting out the door is unironically the hardest part of the entire session. The second you step through my entryway, you can officially relax, take a breath, and let me take over "babysitting" duty while you sit back.

Happy family with young daughter laughing together in bed under cozy blanket in bright white bedroom.
Close-up of tiny newborn baby feet resting on a soft beige knit blanket.
Young father in white t-shirt gently holding newborn baby in diaper, sharing a tender moment at home.
Newborn baby in white giraffe print pajamas lying on a soft white blanket, sucking on their hand.

What to expect during our session


Baby runs the show: If baby needs to nurse, cuddle, or get a diaper change mid-session, we pause. There is zero rush—the session is entirely built around your baby's cues.


Sit back & relax: Once you arrive, hand the heavy lifting to me! Take a seat, relax, and use this time to rest while I handle swaddles and posing.


Safety first: I will never force a pose. Every movement is gentle, natural, and prioritized around your baby's safety and comfort.

What i provide


I have a curated collection of soft swaddles, bonnets, bows, and minimal props ready for your baby’s big shoot. Simply choose your preferred color palette in your prep questionnaire, and I’ll have perfectly coordinated setups styled and waiting the moment you walk through the door.


(And don't worry if you forget the diaper bag—I keep basic baby essentials like extra diapers and wipes stocked at all times!)

Extra tips:


  • Expect a warm studio! The studio will be kept at a cozy 75°F–78°F to keep your unswaddled baby comfortable and warm. Dress in light, breathable layers so you don't overheat!
Newborn baby lying on a soft knit blanket, looking up with bright eyes in a peaceful nursery setting.

Preparing for a newborn session can feel overwhelming (to say the least)! But take a deep breath, trust the process, and let me handle the rest once you walk through the door. Hang in there and get ready for a GORGEOUS gallery!