5 Tips to Prepare for a Newborn Session at the Studio

Those first few weeks with your baby are a blur of feeding schedules, sleepy snuggles, and adjusting to a brand new rhythm. It’s beautiful, emotional, and a little exhausting. This is why I have designed a newborn session experience that is soothing, baby-led, and encouraging from beginning to end.

My light-filled studio in Portland is designed to feel like a peaceful retreat – a space where you can slow down and just be present with your little one. But I also know that even a short outing with a newborn can feel like a big task in those early days. So here are five gentle, practical tips to help you prepare for your studio newborn session.

Table of Contents

• Plan for Baby’s Sleepy Window
• Dress Baby in Something Easy to Remove
• Keep It Simple for Yourself Too
• Bring the Basics, But Don’t Overpack
• Expect a Slow, Peaceful Pace
• Final Thoughts

1. Plan for Baby’s Sleepy Window

Newborns photograph best when they’re warm, cozy, and a little bit sleepy. To help make that happen, try to keep the baby awake for a short time before your session and give them a full feeding right before or as soon as you arrive. I give plenty of time for calming, cuddles, and feeding breaks. It’s all part of the flow.

If things don’t go as planned, don’t worry. Every baby is different, and we’ll go at their own pace the entire time. Your only job is to show up and love your little one. I’ll handle everything else.

2. Dress Baby in Something Easy to Remove

When you arrive, it helps to have the baby dressed in something simple like a zip-up or snap-front onesie – ideally without anything that goes over their head. That way, if the baby falls asleep in the car, we can ease them out of their outfit without waking them.

To highlight their adorable features, the baby will spend the majority of the session partially undressed or wrapped in one of my studio wraps. So don’t worry about bringing outfits unless there’s something special you’d love to include.

3. Keep It Simple for Yourself Too

You’ve just had a baby. You do not need to show up feeling “camera-ready.” Come in cozy clothes, bring whatever makes you feel comfortable, and know that I’ll gently guide you through everything.

If you plan to be in a few photos (and I always recommend it!), soft, neutral colors work beautifully. Avoid bold prints or logos, and lean into textures that feel natural and timeless. I also offer access to a curated studio wardrobe, so you don’t need to shop or stress about what to wear. We’ll figure it out together.

I have an amazing hair and makeup artist who will come to the studio on the day of your newborn session to help you feel a little pampered before stepping in front of the camera. I highly recommend adding on this service, then truly all you have to do is show up and we will take care of the rest! 

4. Bring the Basics, But Don’t Overpack

There’s no need to bring a whole diaper bag full of extras. My studio is stocked with diapers, wipes, burp cloths, and even a sound machine and pacifiers. I also keep swaddles and baby-safe wraps on hand in soft, neutral colors.

That said, feel free to bring anything that’s part of your family’s story, like a special quilt, a handmade hat, or a meaningful item you’d like to include in a few frames. We’ll talk through any personal touches during the planning process.

5. Expect a Slow, Peaceful Pace

This newborn session isn’t rushed, and it isn’t about perfection. It’s about capturing those fleeting, tender details – the curl of their toes, the softness in your gaze, the quiet connection that already runs so deep.

We’ll move slowly, take breaks as needed, and follow your baby’s cues throughout. This isn’t a performance. It’s a celebration of everything you’ve brought into the world.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for your newborn session shouldn’t feel like another task on your list. There should be a slight sense of relief. A moment to pause. To be fully present. To remember.

If you’re ready to plan your newborn session, reach out here. I’ll walk with you through every step so that the experience feels as easy.

What Should We Wear for Our Newborn Session?
What Makes My Newborn Sessions Unique
Minimalist Newborn Photography – Why I Keep Things Minimal in the Studio