Newborn

Those first days with your newborn fly by faster than anyone warns you. One minute they’re sleeping on your chest all day and the next they’re stretching out and outgrowing the very swaddle you brought them home in. And while your camera roll will be full of little everyday snapshots, there are five types of newborn photos that parents tell me they treasure most years later.

I remember looking back on my own babies’ newborn photos and feeling so grateful we captured the tiny things I didn’t even realize I’d forget. The way their toes curled, their hands still clenched in little fists, the peaceful way they’d melt into us. Those are the moments that matter…the real memories that stick.

So if you’re planning a newborn session and feeling a little overwhelmed, here are the 5 photos you’ll never regret having.

---

1. Baby Solo Portraits

Because these tiny details change overnight

Those teeny tiny newborn features are the first things to change: the flaky little toes, the peach fuzz shoulders, the pouty lips. In every session, I make sure to focus on baby alone so you can remember just how small they once were.

I capture these in the studio using soft, cozy setups that feel natural, with nothing overly posed. Baby-led means I’m paying attention to their cues and letting them settle into whatever feels most comfortable for them.

I can’t tell you how many times parents look back at these images and say, “I forgot they were ever that little.” It’s a stage that disappears so quickly.

---

2. Mom and Baby Photos

The way you look at them…that love deserves to be photographed too

New moms often tell me, “I don’t need to be in many photos.” But trust me, one day that little one will want to see what their mama looked like when they were brand new.

These photos can be as simple as:
• Holding baby close on the studio bed
• Cradling their tiny head in your hands
• A quiet moment with baby resting against your chest

My goal is to keep these natural and calming. You don’t have to worry about posing. I’ll guide you every step of the way so it feels comfortable and real.

---

3. Dad and Baby Photos

A whole different kind of tenderness

There’s something about watching a new dad hold his baby that gets me every time. Even the dads who swear they’re “awkward in photos” end up melting the moment their newborn snuggles in.

These look great in:
• A simple standing pose with baby at dad’s chest
• Baby wrapped securely in dad’s arms
• A sweet moment where dad’s forehead rests gently on baby’s

These images show such a strong and quiet kind of love and they matter.

---

4. Full Family Portraits

Because this is the moment your family became complete

Your first official family photo with your new baby is one you’ll look back on forever. Even with tired eyes and unpredictable toddler energy, these images tell the story of where it all began.

If there are older siblings involved, I help make it fun and quick so we can capture the most natural moments. Toddlers especially love feeling included, even if that means getting them engaged for only a few seconds at a time. That’s all it takes to get the best shot.

---

5. Siblings with Baby (and Pets Too!)

Best friends in the making

These are the photos that often make parents tear up, when big siblings proudly holding “their baby.” Sometimes they’re a little too excited, sometimes they need a minute to warm up: either way, we read the moment and keep things safe and comfortable.

Safety is always the priority
Hands stay close, and baby is supported whether big brother is enthusiastic or big sister is still figuring things out.

And if your first baby has fur?
Dogs are absolutely welcome in the studio too. I’ve had pups refuse to leave the baby’s side because they already knew “this is my human now.” Those moments are pure gold.

---

Focus on What Actually Matters

You don’t need elaborate props or complicated poses for newborn photos to be meaningful. The images you’ll love most are the ones that capture love, connection, and the tiny details that are gone in a blink.

As a mom myself, I know how easy it is to let time rush past in those early weeks. That’s exactly why I focus on simple, cozy, baby-led sessions that help you actually enjoy the experience, not stress about it.

Your newborn is only this little once. Let’s make sure you have the photos you’ll want to hold onto forever.

---

Ready to plan your newborn session?

View my newborn portfolio here.
Or send me a message and let’s get your session on the calendar.

Which of these 5 photo types are you most excited to have? I’d love to hear!