10 Tips for a Stress-Free Newborn Photography Session
As a Salt Lake City newborn photographer, I know how special (and sometimes overwhelming!) those first few days with your little one can be. You want to capture all the tiny details—the little fingers, the sleepy smiles, the way they curl up so perfectly. But I also know that the idea of a photoshoot with a brand-new baby can feel daunting. That’s why I’ve put together my best tips to make your session as smooth and stress-free as possible!
Studio Newborn Portrait - Salt Lake City Newborn Photographer - Leah Louviere Photography
1. Book Your Session Early
The best time for newborn photos is within the first 5-14 days when babies are sleepiest and easiest to pose. During this stage, they are more likely to stay settled, making it easier to capture a variety of natural and comfortable poses. Since scheduling can be tight, I recommend reaching out during your pregnancy to secure a spot. This way, you can plan ahead, and you won’t have to worry about last-minute availability once your baby arrives.
2. Keep the Baby Comfortable
To help ensure a smooth newborn session, I recommend keeping your morning as relaxed as possible and sticking to your baby’s usual routine. Avoid scheduling any appointments or outings beforehand, as overstimulation or disruptions to their normal schedule can make it harder for them to settle during the session. A calm, well-rested baby is much more likely to stay content and sleepy, making for a more enjoyable experience and better photos.
Most photographers will have the room comfortably warm (around 75 degrees) and use white noise, which can also help create a soothing environment, similar to what they were used to in the womb.
3. Feed Your Baby Right Before the Session
A full belly equals a content baby. If possible, feed your baby just before our session starts so they’re relaxed and ready to drift off into that sweet newborn sleep. But don’t worry—there’s always time for feeding breaks if needed!
4. Dress Baby in Something Easy to Remove
Trust me, trying to wrestle a tight onesie over a sleepy baby’s head is not fun—for you or for them! To make things easier, I recommend dressing your baby in a zip-up or snap-front outfit that allows for quick and gentle changes without disturbing their sleep. Avoid anything that needs to be pulled over their head, as this can startle them and make settling back down more challenging. Many of the best newborn photos are done with just a soft wrap, keeping the focus on their tiny features and natural expressions. By keeping outfits simple and easy to remove, we can ensure smooth transitions and a stress-free session for both you and your baby!
5. Keep It Timeless
For newborn sessions, I always stick to neutral colors and soft textures because they create a timeless, clean look that highlights your baby’s natural beauty. I recommend avoiding clothes with big logos, bold patterns, or bright colors, as these can distract from your baby’s delicate features and the overall simplicity of the images. Newborn photos are something you’ll cherish for many years, so keeping the style classic and understated ensures the focus stays on what truly matters—your baby. I also keep props to a minimum, using only a few subtle items like wraps, blankets, or a small stuffed animal to add texture and warmth, but never taking away from the simplicity and beauty of the moment. This approach allows the images to remain timeless, ensuring they’ll look just as beautiful in years to come as they do today.
In Home Newborn Session - Salt Lake City Newborn Photographer - Leah Louviere Photography
Studio Newborn Portrait - Salt Lake City Newborn Photographer - Leah Louviere Photography
6. Go with the Flow
Newborns run the show, and that’s okay! Some babies sleep the whole time, while others need extra cuddles and breaks. I always allow plenty of time for feeding, soothing, and diaper changes so there’s no pressure to rush.
7. Parents and Siblings Are Welcome!
I love capturing the connection between you and your baby, and if you’re up for it, we can take a few family shots as well. These often turn out to be the most meaningful images, showing the love and bond you share during this special time. I recommend wearing neutral-colored outfits to keep the focus on your family and create a clean, timeless look. Whether it’s parents, siblings, or just a quiet moment with your newborn, these images will be ones you’ll appreciate for years to come.
8. Bring the Essentials
Diapers, wipes, an extra swaddle, and a pacifier (if your baby uses one) can be lifesavers during a session. I have plenty of props and wraps, but bringing a special blanket or heirloom item can make the photos even more meaningful.
9. Trust the Process
I’ve been photographing newborns for a long time, and I promise—I’ve seen it all! Every baby is different; some settle into a deep sleep right away, while others are more alert and wiggly. No matter your baby’s temperament that day, I have plenty of gentle techniques to keep them comfortable and create beautiful, natural images. From soothing methods and careful posing to knowing when to take breaks for feeding or cuddling, I’ll guide the session with patience and experience. Your only job is to relax, enjoy the process, and soak in these special moments with your little one while I take care of the rest!
10. Enjoy the Experience
This time is fleeting, and I want you to look back on your session with joy, not stress. Don’t worry about perfection—some of the best moments happen in between the poses. Embrace the tiny yawns, stretches, and expressions that make your baby unique!
I can’t wait to capture these special moments for you! If you have any questions or want to book your newborn session, feel free to reach out—I’m here to make this as easy and enjoyable as possible for you.
