Your Guide to Newborn Photos: Documenting the Early Days

Those first few weeks of your baby’s life are magical and fleeting. In the blink of an eye, your tiny newborn will grow and change. Having those early days documented with professional photography is a beautiful way to remember it.

As a Northern Virginia newborn photographer who offers studio newborn photos and in-home newborn photography, I created this post to guide you through the experience.

Guide to Newborn Photos from Northern Virginia Photographer

1. 1. When to Book Your Newborn Photoshoot
   2. When to Take Newborn Photos
   3. Choosing a Location: Studio vs. In-Home
   4. Lifestyle vs. Posed Newborn Photography
   5. Preparing for Your Newborn Photoshoot
   6. Safety First: Trusting Professional Photographers with Your Baby
   7. What to Bring to Your Newborn Session
   8. Wardrobe Tips for Newborn Photos
   9. Newborn Photography Pricing
   10. What to Expect with Emily Alyssa Photography

 

 

When to Book Your Newborn Photoshoot

It’s best to book your newborn session early – maybe much earlier than you thought! Plan on researching photographers and booking early in your second trimester. Many photographers book based on your due date and wait to schedule until baby arrives. It can be so unpredictable, as you likely know! Because of this, many photographers limit the number of newborn sessions they take each month (myself included) to ensure a smooth scheduling experience.

Here’s how my newborn sessions work. You’ll book based on your due date and we’ll take care of planning wardrobe and any other final details. Then when baby arrives, you’ll send me an email letting me know the exciting news! I’ll send a list of options that fit in the ideal timeframe for newborn photos (1-2 weeks – more info on that below). You’ll pick a date, and you’re all set!

The Ideal Timing: When to Take Newborn Photos

The golden window for my newborn photography style is typically within the first 1-2 weeks after birth. During this period, babies are:

• More likely to sleep soundly
• More likely to want to be swaddled
• More likely to curl up into those adorable moments

There is some flexibility, however. Many of my clients choose to go closer to 3 weeks, and I’m okay with that! As a lifestyle newborn photographer, I don’t do any of the “posed” newborn looks you sometimes see. (For example, baby propped up on his or her hands, baby wearing an elaborate outfit and placed in a bucket, etc.). Instead, I do a simple swaddle and take photos of baby laying down in a very relaxed, natural way. While baby is in the onesie, baby can stretch out and get comfortable however baby wants.

One note – baby acne does sometimes start around 2-3 weeks, and when you get to 3 weeks baby may not want to be swaddled or sleep as much. I like to mention these so you’re aware (and I do touch up baby acne in photoshop if present). But it’s also important to balance the ideal timeframe for photos with your own comfort and health during this time. So I always tell parents to aim for 1-2 weeks, but if we need to push it out for that we definitely can!

Choosing a Location: Studio vs. In-Home

Here at Emily Alyssa Photography I offer two types of newborn photo sessions:

1. Studio Sessions: Located in Sterling, Virginia (30 miles outside Washington, DC)
2. In-Home Newborn Sessions: Photographed at the client’s home for an additional fee

There are benefits to both options, as you can imagine! Many clients ask which option is the best, and it really comes down to your own personal preference and desires.

Studio Newborn Session Benefits:

• No home preparation or cleaning required
• Everything is set up and ready for you
• Comfortable environment for newborn photography
• The neutral white walls and hand-painted canvas backdrop give you simple, minimalist, emotion-focused portraits
• Plenty of natural light allows for sessions rain or shine. We only have to reschedule if we get inclement weather or really dark storm clouds.
• Easy parking + on-site bathroom.
• Changing room in the studio and access to the client closet of dresses.
• Complimentary snacks and water during the session.
• See examples below!

In-Home Newborn Session Benefits:

• Photos taken in the comfort of your own home
• Focuses on creating meaningful, emotional portraits of your newborn in your family’s space
• Documents special details like the nursery you lovingly put together
• Comfortable and familiar environment for the baby
• No need to travel
• No need to pack a diaper bag – you have everything you need right there.
• Pets can join the photos if desired
• See photo examples below!

Lifestyle vs. Posed Newborn Photography

All of my newborn photos are lifestyle newborn sessions. This simply means the focus is on your natural connections as a family. While I provide posing guidance to capture the prettiest light and settings possible, I don’t physically pose baby or use any props. Instead, my storytelling style allows you to be fully present in the moment, soaking it all in.

A lifestyle newborn session might be right for you if:

• You desire natural, candid moments documented during this sweet season
• You want just a little posing guidance without feel overly posed or staged
• Real, authentic moments that make you feel are high on your list
• You’re seeking a minimalist approach that focuses on connections
• You’re looking for a 1.5-2.5 hour photo session. Posed newborn sessions take longer, sometimes up to 3-4 hours to get baby deeply asleep and into each pose.

These sessions don’t include:

• Traditional posed newborn photos that include sleeping babies curled up or propped up into poses, special props and themed outfits.
• The use of any props. Since I focus on the documentary side, I will not be posing your baby in any baskets, blankets or bowls.
• Specific outfits, hats or accessories.

Preparing for Your Newborn Photoshoot

Over the years, I’ve learned how parents can make their newborn photoshoot a stress-free experience. Here are some essential tips for parents!

Timing is Everything

• Schedule your shoot during your baby’s sleepiest hours. At the studio, sessions are at 10 AM or 11 AM. For in-home we plan for 10 or 11 AM unless your home gets much better natural light in your favorite rooms in the afternoon. In those cases, we typically do a 12 or 1 PM start time.
• Keep your baby awake for 60-90 minutes before the shoot to encourage deeper sleep during our time together.
• Plan on being at the session for 1.5 – 2.5 hours. Newborn sessions are a marathon, not a sprint. We take breaks for feeding, diaper changes, and soothing as needed.

Feeding tips

• Feed your baby right before the session starts until baby has a full belly.
• A full, satisfied baby is more likely to be calm and cooperative.
• Bring extra formula or be prepared to nurse during breaks if baby gets hungry during the session.

Prepare Older Siblings

• Make sure siblings eat before the session so no one is hungry.
• Bring easy-to-eat, mess-free snacks that can be eaten in a couple bites. (Cheerios, gummies, etc. are great options. Avoid chocolate and anything sticky).
• Talk about the photo session with them beforehand. Tell them in a fun, lighthearted way instead of using threats or telling them they have to behave. When kids come in excited about having fun together as a family, we tend to have a smoother session.
• Stay flexible and go with the flow. Remember you just brought a new baby home into your lives, and it’s going to be an adjustment for the entire family. It can be difficult for older siblings sometimes, and the more we push during a session the less likely it’s going to work. I have a few tricks up my sleeves (especially for toddlers) but going with the flow makes a world of a difference.

Session Length

• Typical lifestyle newborn sessions last 1.5-2.5 hours.
• We can stop for feeding, changing, and soothing breaks as much as needed.
• Patience is key! I’ll guide you through everything to keep baby happy and comfortable.

 

Safety First: Trusting Professional Photographers with Your Baby

Newborn photography isn’t just about beautiful photos of your little one—it’s about safety. Professional photographers:

• Are trained in safe posing techniques
• Are careful to practice safety such as keeping the camera strap around your neck while shooting above, placing baby in a safe and secure location, etc.
• Know how to handle and position delicate newborns
• Are experienced in providing a calm, relaxing environment for you and baby
• Won’t force baby into a pose that is uncomfortable

Take the time to find a photographer who is established and experienced working with newborns. You want to feel comfortable and confident in your decision, and most importantly you want baby to be safe at all times.

What to Bring to Your Newborn Session

Coming to the studio? Here’s what to bring:

• diapers
• wipes
• Pacifier (if you use one)
• milk / bottle / feeding supplies
• baby’s outfits if you’re bringing your own (white swaddles and onesies provided)
• your outfits (if anyone is getting dressed at the studio)
• If you’re planning on wearing a client closet dress, bring or wear nude undergarments. Also consider a strapless bra or breast petals if you want an off-the-shoulder dress

Optional: shoes for your photo outfit; at the studio, many families prefer to go barefoot for a more relaxed, laid-back look. If you’re going for a more formal look, make sure everyone has shoes that match their outfits

Wardrobe Tips

Timeless is always preferred over trendy. Here are a few ways to accomplish this:

• Select neutral tones or subtle pops of color when picking wardrobe
• Wear a dress from the client closet – learn more here!
• Ask for wardrobe assistance if you’re wearing your own outfit – I would love to help you find something + coordinate everyone else!
• Keep baby’s outfit simple with a swaddle and onesie (or other outfit) – learn more about what your newborn should wear for photos here.

Newborn Photography Pricing

Professional newborn photography is an investment in memories. It’s one of the few purchases that goes up in value as time goes on. In 30 years, how important will these moments be to you and your family? Choosing a photographer to capture these moments in a way that’s meaningful to you will be worth it.

As you can imagine, newborn photography prices range across the board depending on:

• The photographer’s experience and artistic approach to your session
• Level of planning services offered (wardrobe styling or client closet, planning consultations, meeting in person before the session, etc.)
• Quality of products and design expertise offered
• Touch points and communication before, during, and after the session
• If they own a studio
• If they come to you so you can your newborn photos in the comfort of your own home

A newer photographer may offer them for $300-500, while a photographer with a studio offering a luxury experience will likely be closer to $1200-1700+. Every photographer is unique in their approach and offerings, so it’s important to think about what you really value in photography and the level of service you want to receive.

What To Expect – Emily Alyssa Photography Newborn Sessions

As a full service photographer, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. When you book, you’ll pay a session fee that reserves your newborn session on my calendar and includes pre-session planning and complimentary access to the client closet of dresses. After the session, you’ll purchase a collection separately. Collections include a variety of digital image and album options. I do it this way so you can see the final edited photos before purchasing them.

Additional artwork including keepsake boxes, professional, museum-quality framed fine art prints, and more can be added on. I can take care of everything for you – I will design your album for you, assist you in choosing the best size framed prints for your wall, and more.

You’ll also get the option to order your own loose prints in your gallery, and all digital image purchases come with a personal print release so you can share with family and friends and self-print wherever you want. I know there are many different ways to cherish your photos, and I want you to have all the options!

Final Thoughts

Your newborn’s first photoshoot is more than a photo session—it’s a huge milestone in your family’s story. These images will become treasured family heirlooms, documenting the early days of your baby’s life. Take some time to think about what it is you want most during this time and find a photographer who aligns with those values.

I hope this guide to newborn photos was helpful! Have more questions? I would love to chat! Inquire at the link below, or send me an email at info@emilyalyssa.com.

INQUIRE NOW