Newborn Session Guide
Hi Friends...
I know welcoming a new little one into the world comes with all the emotions—and let’s be honest, getting newborn photos taken can feel like a lot. That’s why I’ve created this guide just for you! Inside, you’ll find simple tips and gentle reminders to help you feel confident, prepared, and excited for your session. I’m here to make this process as peaceful and joy-filled as possible—so you can focus on soaking in these fleeting, beautiful moments.
If you ever have a question (big or small), just shoot me a text or email—I’m always happy to help.
With love,
Maddie
Proccess
Step 1.
Booking your session
Let’s get you on the calendar!
Newborn sessions are best scheduled between 48 hours and 2 weeks after birth. That dreamy, snuggly, sleepy baby window is short — but magical. I recommend reaching out during your third trimester to pick a tentative date. Once baby makes their grand entrance, we’ll confirm and finalize the details. We’ll also chat through your vision and any must-haves, so you feel confident and excited.
Step 2.
Preparing for your session
The more relaxed you are, the smoother things go — promise.
To help your baby be extra sleepy and cozy, try keeping them awake for a little stretch beforehand. Then give a full feed about 20–30 minutes before we meet. Gather up any special outfits, accessories, or family heirlooms you’d like included and set them aside. Oh — and have a bottle ready just in case your little one needs a snack mid-session. I’ll guide the rest.
Step 3.
When we meet
When I Arrive
This is your moment to exhale.
I’ll begin with photos of baby solo — giving you a chance to sit back, sip some coffee (yes please!), or freshen up. Once we’ve captured those tiny details, we’ll bring the whole crew in for lifestyle family shots. Cuddles, kisses, chaos — it all belongs. I’ll include outfit tips below to help you feel comfy and photo-ready.
Step 4.
What to wear
Simple. Soft. You.
Neutral tones, cozy textures, and gentle layers always photograph beautifully. Avoid bold logos or busy patterns — we want your family’s connection to shine, not compete with your clothes. If you have a favorite robe or dress that makes you feel beautiful postpartum, that’s the one.
Step 5.
After the session
The magic doesn’t stop when I pack up.
You’ll receive a few sneak peeks shortly after your session (hello, heart eyes). Within 24 hours, you’ll get access to your full gallery to select your favorites. I’ll then lovingly edit each chosen photo and deliver your final high-resolution digital images within 2 weeks — ready for printing, framing, and swooning over.
Step 6.
Your memories, preserved
These moments are fleeting — but your photos won’t be.
Whether this is your first baby or your fifth, this season is worthy of slowing down and being seen. I’m here to make sure these early days don’t blur together but instead become part of your family’s forever story. And trust me — you’ll never regret being in the frame.
"Sometimes the smallest things take up the most room in your heart."
- A.a. Milne
What to wear
&
what to bring
a little planning now equals dreamy photos you will treasure for a lifetime
At a glance
what photographs best
- Solid colors
- Neutral + light tones
- Soft textures
- Minimal or no patterns
These choices give your photos a clean, timeless, and emotional feel — letting the love in the moment take center stage.
Light Neutrals
think soft, dreamy, and peaceful
Light neutrals reflect natural light beautifully, creating soft, airy images that feel clean and delicate. These tones add a sense of calm to your photos and help highlight your baby’s features — tiny fingers, sleepy lashes, and all. They also blend seamlessly with most home environments and keep your gallery feeling timeless.
Examples: Cream, Light gray, White, Blush, Beige, Dusty sage, and Pale blue
Dark Neutrals
think rich, cozy, and grounded
Dark neutrals add contrast and depth without overpowering the moment. They’re perfect for bringing out the intimacy and warmth of an in-home session. These tones can help highlight lighter elements in your scene — like baby’s skin tone or soft blankets — while still feeling elegant and refined.
Examples: Navy, Deep brown, Charcoal gray, Rich black, and Forest or dusty green
Neutrals are the MVPs of photo styling — and for good reason! They go with everything. Whether you’re pulling pieces from different closets or trying to coordinate a last-minute outfit, neutrals make it easy. They mix and match beautifully without looking too “matchy,” and they create a soft, timeless backdrop that lets the emotion in your photos shine. Want to add a pop of personality? A bold headband, textured swaddle, or colorful toy can stand out just enough without clashing. It’s the best of both worlds — relaxed and refined.
Tips for baby
When it comes to prepping your little one, less is more. Swaddles are a newborn session’s best friend — they help keep baby calm, cozy, and curled up for those dreamy, sleepy shots. Bring a couple in soft, neutral tones or light textures like muslin or knit. (I have some of course, but if you have a few that you purchased or have sentimental value bring them or set them aside!)
Most “newborn” outfits tend to be bulky or oversized, so if you choose to dress baby, try everything on ahead of time. A snug onesie or just a diaper with a wrap is often the perfect choice.
And yes — a naked baby is absolutely welcome. It’s classic, pure, and always posed with care.
If we’re shooting in your home, warm the space to around 70–72°F before I arrive, or place a small space heater (closely monitored!) near where baby will be. A cozy baby = a sleepy, content baby — and that makes all the difference.
You can rest easy, mama — I’ve got baby snuggles, soothing, and safety covered. Just enjoy this sweet little window of time.
I recommend having a pacifier on hand (even if you little once hasn't used one yet) and be ready to feed mid-way through if baby gets fussy.
Tips for Momma
You just gave birth — comfort is the priority, beauty is the bonus. You don’t need to look like a magazine cover to look absolutely radiant in these photos. What matters most is that you feel like you.
Flowy dresses, soft knits, oversized cardigans, or cozy robes all photograph beautifully. Stick with earthy neutrals or soft tones like blush, cream, sage, or dusty blue — they bring warmth and softness to your images and keep the focus on your connection with baby.
When choosing outfits, prioritize texture over pattern. Fabrics like linen, waffle weave, or gentle ribbing add depth without distraction.
If you're nursing, go with something that allows easy access — we can always pause so baby can feed whenever needed.
And remember: you don’t need to “bounce back” or look perfect. This season is tender and real — and I’m here to capture the beauty already in it. You’re doing amazing, mama.
