How to Prepare Your Baby for a Newborn Photoshoot

A relaxed baby makes a relaxed session — and the two things newborns love most are being warm and being full. Everything you'll read below is really just a variation on those two ideas.

The day before

• Keep baby awake for a little longer than usual before bedtime — a nap-friendly session is a happy session
• Have a warm bath ready for the morning to help settle them
• Charge your phone — parents always want to take behind-the-scenes photos
• Wash any baby outfits you'd like used so they smell like home

Feeding

Try to give a full feed just before I arrive, and don't worry if we need to top up mid-session. Feeds are welcome, expected, and often produce some of the loveliest images of the day.

Keeping the room warm

Newborn skin needs to be warm to relax into curled poses. I bring a small heater and warm wraps, but if we're photographing at your home please crank the thermostat up to around 24–26°C in the room we'll use — it makes a huge difference.

What to have to hand

• Extra dummy / pacifier (even if you don't normally use one)
• Muslins and a change of clothes for baby (and for you!)
• Anything meaningful — a knitted blanket from grandma, a tiny toy

The most beautiful newborn sessions are the ones where the parents let go of the schedule and let the baby lead.