Preparing for Newborn Photo Session: FAQ

How long will the newborn photo session last?

Every baby is different, so session lengths vary. Some take two hours, others may last up to four. Newborn sessions cannot be rushed. Please avoid scheduling anything else that day to keep things calm and stress-free.

Your baby may need a feeding or a diaper change or perhaps just needs some comforting. Take the necessary time to soothe and care for your baby during the session.

Tending to your baby’s needs helps them stay relaxed—and makes the session more enjoyable for everyone.

During an in-home newborn photo shoot in Upper Marlboro, MD, a newborn baby girl in a swaddle lies on her mother's outstretched legs. The mother touches the baby's tiny pursed lips. Parents prepared for newborn photo session by having different swaddles available.

How can I prepare my baby for the newborn session?

Though newborns aren’t on schedules yet, please try to feed your baby right before I arrive. A full, sleepy baby is more likely to stay calm when moved or changed during setup.

Don’t worry if your baby stays awake throughout the session. As long as they’re content, I’ll keep photographing and capture beautiful images. With every newborn, I adjust to their rhythm—whether they’re sleeping or wide awake.

If your baby uses a bottle or pacifier, please have them ready. A pacifier can be a tremendous help to soothe your baby and get through the session with greater ease.

How can I prepare myself for the newborn session?

Keep your hair and makeup simple. I often take close-up photos of parents’ hands holding the baby, so try to make sure your nails look clean and neat.

I’ll help soothe your baby as needed. Sometimes, your scent may make your baby eager to feed again. If needed, I may ask you to step away briefly so your baby can settle. Use this time to rest!

It isn’t unusual for baby to feed at some point during the session. Feeding or soothing your baby is never an inconvenience—take whatever time you need to keep them content. A calm, happy baby makes the session smoother and more enjoyable for everyone—including you.

A baby laying on a bed with orange and white pillows. Parents can prepare for a newborn photoshoot by straightening the master bedroom and making the bed.

What should we wear for our newborn’s photos?

I usually photograph newborns in just a diaper, with or without a diaper cover. We can wrap your baby in a simple swaddle, drape a blanket over them, or place them on top of a soft fabric. If you have a special blanket, heirloom outfit, or hat, feel free to bring it—we can try to include it. Dress your baby in something easy to remove without waking or disturbing them. Make sure the clothing is loose to avoid leaving red marks on the skin.

For parents or anyone else in the photos, choose simple, comfortable clothing in neutral or soft colors. Avoid bold prints, logos, or bright tones that could draw attention away from the baby. The goal is to keep the focus on your newborn while still reflecting your personal style.

How can I prepare my home for the newborn session?

Newborns are used to a 98-degree womb, so set your thermostat a bit warmer—about 30–45 minutes before I arrive.

If you have a white noise machine, please keep it nearby. If not, I’ll use a white noise app on my phone.

Have wipes and a few towels ready for any messes we might encounter during the session.

Please don’t stress about tidying up. I’m a mom too—I know how hard it is to stay on top of things in those early days. I only focus on what’s in front of the camera. I’ll help clear any visible clutter if needed. A simple laundry basket works great for tucking things out of sight. A spotless space isn’t important—what matters is capturing your baby in a setting that feels real and relaxed.

TIps for preparing for newborn photo session include feeding the baby before the photographer arrives, if possible.

How long will the newborn photo session last?

Every baby is different, so session lengths vary. Some take two hours, others may last up to four. Newborn sessions cannot be rushed. Please avoid scheduling anything else that day to keep things calm and stress-free.

Your baby may need a feeding or a diaper change or perhaps just needs some comforting. Take the necessary time to soothe and care for your baby during the session.

Tending to your baby’s needs helps them stay relaxed—and makes the session more enjoyable for everyone.

During an in-home newborn photo shoot in Upper Marlboro, MD, a newborn baby girl in a swaddle lies on her mother's outstretched legs. The mother touches the baby's tiny pursed lips. Parents prepared for newborn photo session by having different swaddles available.

How can I prepare my baby for the newborn session?

Though newborns aren’t on schedules yet, please try to feed your baby right before I arrive. A full, sleepy baby is more likely to stay calm when moved or changed during setup.

Don’t worry if your baby stays awake throughout the session. As long as they’re content, I’ll keep photographing and capture beautiful images. With every newborn, I adjust to their rhythm—whether they’re sleeping or wide awake.

If your baby uses a bottle or pacifier, please have them ready. A pacifier can be a tremendous help to soothe your baby and get through the session with greater ease.

How can I prepare myself for the newborn session?

Keep your hair and makeup simple. I often take close-up photos of parents’ hands holding the baby, so try to make sure your nails look clean and neat.

I’ll help soothe your baby as needed. Sometimes, your scent may make your baby eager to feed again. If needed, I may ask you to step away briefly so your baby can settle. Use this time to rest!

It isn’t unusual for baby to feed at some point during the session. Feeding or soothing your baby is never an inconvenience—take whatever time you need to keep them content. A calm, happy baby makes the session smoother and more enjoyable for everyone—including you.

A baby laying on a bed with orange and white pillows. Parents can prepare for a newborn photoshoot by straightening the master bedroom and making the bed.

What should we wear for our newborn’s photos?

I usually photograph newborns in just a diaper, with or without a diaper cover. We can wrap your baby in a simple swaddle, drape a blanket over them, or place them on top of a soft fabric. If you have a special blanket, heirloom outfit, or hat, feel free to bring it—we can try to include it. Dress your baby in something easy to remove without waking or disturbing them. Make sure the clothing is loose to avoid leaving red marks on the skin.

For parents or anyone else in the photos, choose simple, comfortable clothing in neutral or soft colors. Avoid bold prints, logos, or bright tones that could draw attention away from the baby. The goal is to keep the focus on your newborn while still reflecting your personal style.

How can I prepare my home for the newborn session?

Newborns are used to a 98-degree womb, so set your thermostat a bit warmer—about 30–45 minutes before I arrive.

If you have a white noise machine, please keep it nearby. If not, I’ll use a white noise app on my phone.

Have wipes and a few towels ready for any messes we might encounter during the session.

Please don’t stress about tidying up. I’m a mom too—I know how hard it is to stay on top of things in those early days. I only focus on what’s in front of the camera. I’ll help clear any visible clutter if needed. A simple laundry basket works great for tucking things out of sight. A spotless space isn’t important—what matters is capturing your baby in a setting that feels real and relaxed.

TIps for preparing for newborn photo session include feeding the baby before the photographer arrives, if possible.
Additional resources about newborn photos:

When to Schedule your Newborn Portraits

SERVICES

About Julie

I photograph the ever-changing lives of children and their families, capturing their unique spirit. I’m passionate about creating warm and meaningful artwork through modern portraits and lifestyle photography at a location of your choice in and around Washington DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia.

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Are we a match? I would love to learn more about your family and your photo session wishes and to share more about how I work. Together we can decide if my approach is a good fit for you!