Knowing how to prepare for a newborn photography session can make the day feel much easier and more relaxed. You don’t need to bring a huge bag or change your baby’s normal routine — a few simple preparations are usually enough.
Here is what I recommend before visiting my studio for your newborn session.
If you’re still planning your session, you can find more information about my newborn photography in London before your visit.
Dress Your Baby in Something Comfortable
Before coming to the studio, dress your baby in something soft, comfortable and easy to remove.
Clothes that fasten at the front are best. A zip or poppers make changing much easier and mean we don’t need to pull several layers of clothing over your baby’s head when you arrive.
Try to avoid clothes with buttons on the back or around the shoulders, as these can be uncomfortable when your baby is lying down.
For warmer weather, a simple bodysuit is usually perfect. On cooler days, choose a comfortable sleepsuit or babygrow.
Your baby’s outfit for the journey doesn’t need to be photogenic — comfort is much more important.
When thinking about how to prepare for a newborn photography session, start with keeping your baby comfortable on the journey to the studio.
Bring Nappies, Wipes and a Muslin Cloth
Please pack around 4–5 nappies and your usual baby wipes.
I also recommend bringing a small muslin cloth. It’s useful during feeds and for gently wiping milk or little dribbles from your baby’s face.
Small accidents are completely normal during newborn sessions, so don’t worry about them.
Bring a Dummy If Your Baby Already Uses One
If your baby normally uses a dummy, please bring it with you.
It can sometimes be useful when settling your baby between photographs.
There is absolutely no need to introduce a dummy especially for the photoshoot. Simply bring one if it is already part of your baby’s normal routine.
Pack Extra Milk for Bottle-Fed Babies
If your baby is bottle-fed, please make sure you bring enough milk for the session, with a little extra if possible.
Newborn sessions don’t always follow an exact timetable. Your baby may want an additional feed or need more time to settle than they normally would at home.
Feeding and cuddling aren’t interruptions to the session. We simply stop whenever your baby needs you.
You can also read about how long a newborn photoshoot takes and why every baby’s session can be slightly different.
Bring Something for Yourself Too
Newborn sessions can take a few hours, so please remember yourself when packing your baby’s bag.
Bring a snack and your favourite drink or a bottle of water.
There’s no need to sit hungry while we wait for your little one to finish feeding or settle into a lovely deep sleep.
Bring Something Meaningful for the Photographs
You’re very welcome to bring a small sentimental item that you’d like me to incorporate into your photographs.
It might be your baby’s first teddy, a special gift, something handmade or a family keepsake.
Small personal details can make an image completely unique to your family.
Jewellery can also be used creatively. Something as simple as Mum’s rings can become a beautiful way of showing just how tiny your baby was.
Knowing how to prepare for a newborn photography session is mostly about bringing a few familiar essentials your baby already uses every day.
Don't Worry About Making Your Baby Sleepy
You don’t need to arrive with a perfectly sleeping baby.
Some newborns settle within minutes. Others need feeding, cuddling or simply a little more time.
Please follow your baby’s normal needs rather than trying to create a completely different routine just for the photoshoot.
For general information about newborn sleep, parents can also read the safer sleep guidance from The Lullaby Trust.
How to Prepare for a Newborn Photography Session Without Stress
The most important thing is not to overthink it.
Dress your baby comfortably, pack the everyday essentials they normally need and bring a little extra milk if you’re bottle-feeding.
Add a snack and drink for yourself and, if you’d like, bring one or two meaningful items we can try to incorporate into the photographs.
You don’t need to prepare your baby to perform for the camera.
Bring your baby exactly as they are — and we’ll take it from there.
The best advice for parents wondering how to prepare for a newborn photography session is to keep things simple and follow their baby’s usual routine.
If you have any questions before your newborn session or you’re unsure what to bring, get in touch and I’ll be happy to help.