How to Prepare Your Baby for a Newborn Photoshoot
Below are my top ten tips for a smooth and stress-free newborn session.
Welcoming a new baby into the world is one of life’s most magical moments — and capturing those early days with a newborn photoshoot is a beautiful way to freeze time while your little one is still tiny, sleepy, and oh-so-snuggly.
But let’s be honest — life with a newborn can be a bit of a blur. The good news? Your newborn session doesn’t need to add any stress. I come to you — whether that’s at the hospital in those first 48 hours, or in the comfort of your home — so you and bub can stay relaxed in your own space. With just a little prep, your session can be calm, meaningful, and genuinely enjoyable.
Here are my top ten tips to help you prepare for a beautiful, stress-free experience:
1. Timing is everything
The first two weeks after birth are ideal for a newborn photoshoot. During this time, babies are generally sleepier and more settled, making it easier to capture those dreamy, curled-up poses. If you’re after a hospital session (also known as a “Fresh 48”), these are best done within the first two days after birth — raw, real, and full of emotion.
2. Keep baby cosy and sleepy
Try to feed your baby about 20–30 minutes before the session to help them feel full and content. A warm, relaxed baby is usually a sleepy baby, which helps us get those peaceful, snuggly shots. Don’t worry if bub needs a top-up during the session — we follow their lead.
3. Have a few essentials handy
At home or in hospital, it helps to have a few basics within reach — nappies, wipes, a dummy (if you're using one), a wrap your baby loves, and a spare outfit just in case. I’ll bring everything else needed for the session, including swaddles, blankets, and some extra cute cardigans.
4. Go with the flow
Babies are beautifully unpredictable — and that’s completely okay. If they need to be fed, cuddled, or changed during the session, we simply pause. I allow plenty of time so that nothing feels rushed, and often, the in-between moments are the most magical.
5. Keep it simple
When it comes to baby’s outfit, less is more. A neutral onesie or just a wrap works beautifully to keep the focus on bub. If you and your partner are joining in some photos, choose soft, earthy tones or neutrals — they photograph timelessly and won’t distract from the connection in the image.
6. Feed on arrival (if needed)
Even if your baby fed recently, they may want a quick top-up once I arrive. That’s totally normal. A full tummy helps your baby feel settled, and it gives us a calm starting point.
7. Trust your photographer
It’s completely normal to feel unsure or vulnerable in those early days. You don’t need to have a tidy house or know exactly what to do — I’m here to guide you. My style is gentle, natural, and baby-led, and I’ll make sure you feel supported every step of the way.
8. Get in the frame — really
I know you may not feel camera-ready just days or weeks after giving birth, but I gently encourage you to be part of a few photos. These moments with your baby are so fleeting, and I promise — you’ll treasure seeing yourself in them one day.
9. Let siblings be themselves
If older brothers or sisters are around, we’ll include them too — whether they’re excited, unsure, or full of beans! I keep it relaxed and fun so we can capture natural sibling moments without pressure or forced poses.
10. Relax and soak it in
This is your time to pause, breathe, and simply be with your baby. Don’t worry about cleaning the house or having everything perfect — I’m there to document real love, real life, and the beginning of your new chapter.
Thinking of booking a newborn session at home or in hospital? I’d love to hear from you — let’s create something beautiful together.
- Al McTavish | Sydney, Australia
