Lifestyle Newborn Session Prep Guide
How to get your baby + home ready for your photo session
Preparing Baby
Keep baby comfy + sleepy.
Try to feed baby right before the session starts so they’re full and sleepy. A little extra snuggle time before I arrive can also help!
Dress baby simply.
A solid-colored onesie, swaddle, or neutral footed sleeper (without logos or graphics) is perfect.
Have extras nearby.
Diapers, wipes, burp cloths, a pacifier (if they use one), and a backup onesie or swaddle — just in case.
Don’t stress about a schedule.
I expect feedings, changes, and pauses. I’m here for the real, beautiful, in-between moments — no rush at all.
Preparing Your Home
Let the light in.
Open blinds + curtains in rooms with the best natural light — usually we will photograph in the living room, master bedroom, and nursery.
Tidy just the spaces we’ll shoot in.
No need to deep clean. Just declutter nightstands, make the bed, and tuck away anything you don’t want in photos. (Laundry baskets are magic — you can toss everything in one and hide it!)
Turn off overhead lights.
Natural window light is soft and flattering — we’ll use that instead of lamps or ceiling lights.
Make the bed.
Neutral bedding (like white, beige, or soft tones) photographs best and keeps the focus on your family.
What to Wear
Stick to soft, neutral tones.
Whites, creams, taupe, soft blues, muted greens, dusty pinks — anything cozy and timeless. Avoid busy patterns, bright colors, or logos.
Choose comfort.
Wear what makes you feel good. Flowy dresses, oversized sweaters, or jeans and a soft tee — anything that feels like you and allows movement with baby.
Coordinate, don’t match.
Think in tones and textures, not identical outfits. Soft layering looks great!
For baby:
A simple swaddle, plain onesie, or knit set is perfect. I recommend avoiding clothes that are too big or stiff (like jeans or collared shirts). I’ll bring some swaddles and outfits as well.
Bonus tips:
Bare feet are totally okay (even encouraged).
If breastfeeding and comfortable, skin-to-skin photos are beautiful.
Dads look great in neutral tees, henleys, or soft button-downs.
What to Expect During the Session
We’ll start the session with posed photos of your newborn alone, curled up and cozy. Once we have those sweet solo shots, we’ll ease into a relaxed lifestyle session with the rest of the family. These moments are all about connection and cuddles — no stiff poses, just real life and love.
Final Thoughts
Lifestyle newborn sessions are relaxed and unposed — we’re capturing your family as you are, in your real space, soaking in those first sweet days together. Don’t worry about perfection. The love, connection, and quiet magic of this chapter is what we’re here to preserve.
I can’t wait to meet your little one!
