The Ultimate Guide to Preparing for Your Luxury Newborn Session
Congratulations on your newest arrival! As you prepare for your luxury newborn portrait session, I want to ensure you have everything you need for a seamless, stress-free experience that results in timeless heirloom portraits your family will treasure forever.
Timing is Everything: The Sweet Spot
Ideal Age: 5-14 Days Old Your newborn is most sleepy and flexible during this window, allowing for those dreamy, curled-up poses that make hearts melt. However, don't worry if we need to schedule outside this range - every baby is unique, and I've created beautiful portraits with babies up to 3 weeks old.
Best Time of Day: Morning sessions (9 AM - 12 PM) typically work best when baby is naturally sleepiest. I'll work around your baby's feeding schedule to ensure maximum comfort.
Pre-Session Preparation
48 Hours Before Your Session
Feed on Demand: Keep baby on their natural feeding schedule - a well-fed baby is a content baby. There's no need to alter their routine.
Keep Baby Warm: Maintain a cozy environment at home. Warm babies are sleepy babies, which means better poses and more beautiful portraits.
Prepare Yourself:
Get plenty of rest (as much as possible with a newborn!)
Stay hydrated and nourished
Prepare any special items you'd like included in portraits
The Night Before
Clothing Prep:
Choose your outfits (see wardrobe guide below)
Have backup options ready
Ensure everything is clean and wrinkle-free
Feeding Strategy: Feed your baby about 30 minutes before leaving for the session. This timing usually results in a sleepy, content baby upon arrival.
Wardrobe Guide for Luxury Portraits
For Parents and Siblings
Timeless Elegance:
Neutral tones: cream, beige, soft grays, muted pastels
Solid colors or subtle textures
Avoid busy patterns, logos, or bright colors that compete with your baby
Recommended Styles:
Mom: Flowing dresses, soft cardigans, or elegant blouses
Dad: Button-down shirts, sweaters, or classic polos
Siblings: Simple dresses, nice pants with solid shirts
Fabric Choices: Soft, comfortable fabrics photograph beautifully and feel good against baby's skin during family poses.
For Baby
Less is More: Often, the most stunning newborn portraits feature baby in their natural state or simple wraps. I provide all props, wraps, and accessories needed for your session.
If You Prefer Baby Clothed:
Simple onesies in neutral colors
Avoid anything with snaps, buttons, or embellishments that might leave marks
Bring a few size options (newborn and 0-3 months)
What to Bring
Essential Items
Extra diapers and wipes
Burp cloths
Pacifier (if baby uses one)
Baby's favorite blanket for comfort between poses
Snacks and water for parents
Any special props you'd like incorporated (family heirlooms, meaningful items)
Optional Additions
Sibling comfort items (small toy, snack)
Change of clothes for everyone (just in case)
Phone charger (sessions can take 2-3 hours)
Day of Session: What to Expect
Upon Arrival
Studio tour and safety protocol explanation
Wardrobe consultation and final outfit selection
Comfortable seating area for feeding and soothing baby as needed
During the Session
Temperature-controlled environment (kept at 74-78°F for baby's comfort)
Soothing music and calm atmosphere
Flexible pacing - we work on baby's schedule however sometimes baby will not cooperate and that is okay! Rarely do we have to schedule a second session BUT it can happen.
Multiple setup changes for variety in your gallery
Session Flow
Solo baby portraits (while baby is sleepiest)
Parent and baby combinations
Family portraits
Sibling shots (if applicable and sibling are cooperative)
Special Considerations for Luxury Sessions
Comfort is Key
Your session is designed to be relaxing and enjoyable. Feel free to feed, soothe, or take breaks whenever needed. Beautiful portraits happen when everyone feels comfortable and unhurried.
Customization Options
As part of your luxury experience, we'll discuss:
Specific poses you've envisioned
Color schemes that match your nursery or home décor
Special requests or meaningful elements to include
Post-Session Process
Online gallery delivery within 48 hours for image selection
Professional editing of your chosen favorites
Final gallery delivery within 1-2 weeks
Print consultation for heirloom products
Final Tips for Success
Stay Flexible: Babies have their own agenda! The most beautiful sessions happen when we work with baby's natural rhythms rather than against them.
Trust the Process: With 20 years of experience, I've learned that the most stunning portraits often happen during those "in-between" moments when baby settles into a pose.
Enjoy the Experience: This session is about celebrating your newest family member. Relax, trust in my expertise, and enjoy watching your baby's first professional photo session unfold.
Ready to Create Timeless Memories?
Your luxury newborn session should be as special as this incredible milestone in your family's journey. When you're prepared and know what to expect, you can focus on what matters most - celebrating your beautiful new addition.
Questions about preparing for your session? I'm here to guide you through every step of the process. Contact me today to discuss your vision and ensure your luxury newborn session exceeds every expectation.
