How to Prepare for Your Newborn Photography Session
The first week or two with a newborn is a lot.
You're running on little sleep, figuring out feeding, and trying to adjust to a completely new version of your life.
The last thing you need is a complicated to-do list before your photo session.
Good news: preparing for a newborn session at my studio is genuinely simple. Here's everything you need to know.
What to Do Before the Session
Feed your baby right before you leave. This is the single most important thing you can do. A full, sleepy baby is a photographer's dream. Try to time a feeding so that your baby finishes eating just before you head out the door. That will get them good and drowsy, which means a calmer, smoother session for everyone.
Don't stress about the house. You're coming to my studio in North Seattle, which means your home doesn't need to be clean or "photo ready." Just show up with your baby and I'll take care of the rest.
Give yourself extra time. New parent math is different from regular math. What would normally take 20 minutes can take an hour when there's a newborn involved. Build in extra time so you don't feel rushed getting out the door.
That said, if you do find yourself running late to your session, just send me a quick email at sandra@sandracoan.com to let me know!
What to Wear
For parents and siblings, I recommend keeping it simple:
Plain clothing in white, cream, gray, or soft neutral tones
No logos, bold patterns, or busy prints
Something that makes you feel comfortable and like yourself
The goal is for the focus to stay on your baby and the connection between your family. Simple, neutral clothing helps with that without requiring you to go buy anything new.
If you have older kids joining the session, the same guidance applies — simple and comfortable. Well-fed, well-rested kids make for much happier photo sessions, so if you can time snacks and naps accordingly, it helps.
For what it's worth, I have a Pinterest board of outfit inspiration for studio sessions if you want some visual ideas. Just follow this link to check it out.
What about the baby? Newborns are typically photographed in just a diaper or a simple swaddle. The less on them, the better for showing off all those tiny details.. I'll handle everything else.
What to Bring
You don't need much. A few things worth packing:
Extra diapers and wipes — though my studio is stocked with both, just in case
A change of clothes for yourself — babies sometimes pee on parents during sessions. It happens at least once a day in my studio and it is absolutely no big deal. Everything is washable, including me. But having a fresh shirt for yourself is always smart.
Anything sentimental you'd like to include — a special blanket, a stuffed animal, a family heirloom, a meaningful outfit. These personal touches can make a session feel really special. Just let me know in advance if there's something specific you want to incorporate.
You do not need to bring props, wraps, backdrops, or anything else. My studio is set up with everything we need.
What to Expect During the Session
My sessions are baby-led, which means we follow your baby's cues. If they need to eat, we pause. If they need soothing, we soothe. Nothing is forced or rushed.
Most sessions last about an hour, though we build in flexibility for feeding and settling.
The studio is always warm and quiet.
Siblings are absolutely welcome. I love photographing growing families and have a little toddler play zone in the studio to keep older kids entertained during the baby-focused portions of the session. Bring snacks as a well fed toddler is a happy toddler.
One Thing to Keep in Mind
A lot of new parents come in a little anxious, wondering if their baby will cooperate, if they'll look exhausted in the photos, if everything will go smoothly.
I've been photographing newborns for 27 years. I've seen every variation of a newborn session, the fussy babies, the wide-awake babies, the parents who haven't slept in days. It all works out. That's my job: to make sure it works out.
You don't need to be "ready." You just need to show up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I feed my baby before the session?
Yes — a full feeding right before you leave home is the best thing you can do to help the session go smoothly.
What should I wear for newborn photos?
Plain, neutral clothing in white, cream, gray, or soft tones. No logos or bold patterns. Comfort matters most.
Do I need to bring props or wraps?
No. My studio has everything we need. Just bring your baby and anything sentimental you'd like to include.
What if my baby cries the whole time?
It happens, and it's okay. We pause, feed, soothe, and try again. After 27 years, I know how to work with babies at every temperament.
Can my toddler or older child come?
Absolutely. I love including siblings. The studio has a play area for little ones and I always incorporate sibling photos into the session.
Have more questions about what to expect? See the full newborn photography FAQ →