Everything You Need to Know Before Your Newborn Photoshoot


Bringing a new baby into the world is such a special time, and capturing those early days is something you’ll treasure forever.


In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know before your newborn photoshoot — from when to book and what to expect on the day, to helpful do’s and don’ts to make sure your session is calm, relaxed, and full of beautiful memories. Whether you’re a first-time parent or adding to your growing family, this guide will help you feel totally prepared and excited for your session.

Newborn Photography - Sleeping baby nestled among bright orange sunflowers and soft pink fabric creates a peaceful newborn portrait.
Newborn Photography - Adult hands gently cradle tiny newborn baby feet against a soft white blanket in a series of tender poses.

Capturing Those First Precious Days

Those early days with your baby go by in such a blur — feeds, cuddles, sleepy smiles, and tiny yawns that you wish you could freeze in time. That’s exactly what a newborn photoshoot is all about: capturing those fleeting moments so you can look back and remember just how small they once were.

My sessions are calm, baby-led, and full of love — no pressure, no posing stress, just natural, heartfelt images that tell your story. Every session is designed to be relaxed and enjoyable, giving you time to soak up those first magical moments as a family.

Newborn Photography - A sleeping newborn baby rests peacefully on a soft white textured blanket in a dark setting.

When to Book

The best time to get in touch is while you’re still pregnant — ideally during your second or third trimester. This allows me to pencil in your due date and make sure I have flexibility around that time (as babies love to keep us guessing!).


Newborn sessions are usually held when your little one is between 5–14 days old, when they’re still super sleepy and curled up — perfect for those soft, snuggly photos.


If your baby arrives early or late, don’t worry! I always keep space in my diary for my newborn families so we can adjust your session easily once baby makes their arrival.


Check out my FAQs on my website


What to Expect from your Newborn Photoshoot

When you arrive for your newborn session, the most important thing to remember is: there’s no rush. Everything is baby-led, meaning we take our time with feeds, cuddles, and changes whenever needed.

You’ll have access to a wide range of props, wraps, and outfits in the studio — but I also love to include personal touches, like a blanket, teddy, or outfit that means something special to you.

Sessions usually last around 2–3 hours, giving plenty of time for everyone to relax and settle in.

Helpful Guide to Prepare


I know coming out with a newborn can feel like a big task, but this guide should help things run smoothly. Most importantly, come relaxed and ready to enjoy the experience – we’ll create beautiful, natural memories of your little one that you can treasure forever. 

What to Wear?


My studio is always lovely and warm, so baby feels cosy and settled. I’d suggest wearing layers so you can take a jumper off if you get too warm. - Choose clothes that are comfy and easy to wear – the more relaxed you feel, the more natural the photos will be. Simple outfits work best.


  • Don’t worry about shoes – most photos are taken from the waist up, so bare feet or socks are absolutely fine.
  • Solid colours are always best, and I’d recommend avoiding busy prints or logos as they can distract from your little one.
  • Neutral, earthy tones such as creams, whites, browns, greys or blacks always look timeless and really complement baby’s soft newborn features.


Feeding


Babies often feed more during a shoot – the studio is warm and they’re doing a lot of “hard work” modelling! Please don’t worry, we’ll take as many breaks as your baby needs.


  • If bottle-feeding, please bring extra bottles as babies can get through more milk than usual during the session.
  • If your baby is on formula, try not to switch brands right before the session, as this can upset their tummy and make them unsettled.
  • If breastfeeding, you might want to avoid particularly strong or gassy foods the day before, as sometimes these can make babies a little uncomfortable.


The main thing is that baby feels full, happy, and settled so we can capture those sleepy, snuggly shots. 

Dummies


(For the baby, of course!)


I’ll never ask you to use a dummy if it’s not something you’re comfortable with.


Every parent has their own preference. However, from experience, sometimes a dummy can really help settle baby between poses and keep them relaxed.


If your baby already uses one, please bring it along – it can make the session much smoother. 

On the day of...


If you can, try to feed baby once you arrive at the studio – a full tummy usually helps them settle and get sleepy, ready for photos.

Dress baby in something easy to take off, like a zip-up romper, so we don’t need to disturb them too much at the start.


Aim to arrive on time – I know babies run on their own schedule, but being prompt helps us make the most of the session.

I have a selection of outfits for the babies, but if you’d like to be in the photos, please bring clothes that fit the style above (neutrals and simple colours). 


Newborn Photography - tender family moment shows parents cradling with their sleeping newborn baby in a series of intimate photos.
Newborn Photography - A tender moment between parent and baby in white against a light background, shown in three sequential poses.
Newborn Photography - Intimate family portrait session in soft lighting shows tender moments with a sleeping newborn baby.

Do's


Do book while you’re still pregnant.

Newborn sessions are best done when your little one is 5–14 days old, so getting in touch early means I can pencil in your due date and keep space around that time.

Do keep baby comfy before you arrive.

A full tummy and a cosy outfit make all the difference! Feeding your baby right before the session helps them feel sleepy and content for those adorable snuggly shots.

Do bring any special items.

If you have a favourite blanket, teddy, or outfit with sentimental value, bring it along — I love including personal touches that make your session unique to your family.

Do dress comfortably.

My sessions are relaxed and baby-led, so wear something you feel good in (and that you don’t mind cuddling a milk-dribbly newborn in!). Neutral tones work beautifully in photos.

Do relax and trust the process.

Babies cry, need feeding, or want cuddles — that’s all completely normal! I plan extra time for feeds and changes, so there’s no rush. I’ll guide you through everything and make sure we capture your baby just as they are.

Don'ts


Don’t stress if your baby doesn’t “cooperate.”

There’s no such thing as a “bad” newborn session — I work entirely at baby’s pace, and every tiny stretch, yawn, and cuddle makes for beautiful, natural images.

Don’t worry about a spotless house (if I’m coming to you).

If we’re doing a lifestyle session at home, I’ll help you find the best light and background. No one will notice a pile of nappies or a half-drunk coffee on the counter — promise!

Don’t overpack.

I have plenty of wraps, props, and outfits in the studio. You just need your essentials — baby bag, milk, and whatever keeps you and baby comfy.

Don’t forget to enjoy it.

These moments are fleeting — take a deep breath, soak it in, and enjoy watching your baby’s first portraits come to life.

Why choose me?

As a mum myself, I know how special (and sometimes overwhelming!) those first few weeks can be. My goal is to create a calm, welcoming space where you can slow down, soak in the love, and leave with photos that make you smile for years to come.

If you’re expecting and thinking about booking your newborn session, I’d love to hear from you — get in touch to reserve your space. Let’s capture those first memories together.

Contact
Newborn Photography - Black and white portrait of a tender family moment as parents embrace their sleeping baby in a warm, intimate setting.
Kind Words

Lauren Alice

"We had such a lovely morning with Meg on our Newborn shoot. Super happy with our photos! Meg was so patient, took extra time and care, and went above and beyond to capture the best photos of our little one. She made the morning such an easy process, and captured some wonderful memories for us. Thank you so much!"