How to prepare for a newborn photoshoot with siblings: real-life tips from a family photographer
Bringing home a new baby is a huge transition, especially when you have older children in the mix. If you’re wondering how to prepare for a newborn photoshoot that includes a young sibling, you’re in the right place. This blog is inspired by my recent newborn session with a one-week-old baby boy and his two-year-old sister. She wasn’t particularly interested in her baby brother, but she knew exactly where the camera was!
Instead of trying to direct or coax her, we let her warm up in her own time. We read her books, chatted about her toys and eventually, she joined us. Her parents told me afterwards that they had learned so much just by watching how the session unfolded. That feedback made my day!
As a mum of three and a newborn and family photographer in Leigh on Sea for over 16 years, I know how unpredictable young children can be. And I know that, us parents, we can only do our best at any situations so I want to reassure you that I’m here to lend you a helping hand to get the best out of this experience and create beautiful photos along the way.
While every family is different, there are ways to help prepare so the experience is positive and relaxed for everyone.
Toddlers are unpredictable (and that’s OK)
I remember my own newborn sessions with my toddlers and it was hard work. My eldest wasn’t interested in their baby sister at all, he wasn’t keen on having photos with her on his own and in that moment, it seemed unreasonable, frustrating and actually disappointing. Now, looking back, maybe I was the unreasonable one.
Toddlers are often focused on their own needs and the dynamic of a photoshoot will depend on their personality and stage. As a photographer, I’ve learned to to go with the flow. I use reverse psychology, playful distractions and I follow their lead. Most importantly, I prioritise positive experience for everyone.
What to expect: Portrait/studio vs. at-home newborn photoshoot with siblings
Studio newborn session
In my home studio, I try to keep the whole family in the same space for as long as possible to avoid distractions. I have quiet toys and books to keep them entertained and I always advise to bring something you know will keep them busy. It is a long session for young children and I don’t expect them to sit still the whole time. We talk a lot, I include them in all we do (age appropriate) and I give them time to warm up. When the baby is settled, I bring in the siblings and parents in the shots as it fits naturally. This type of session is a little more guided and posed but still led by your baby and children.
If the child or children get restless, I’d ask dad to take them into another room to take a break or have a snack so we can continue with the baby.
At-home newborn session
At-home sessions are much more lifestyle-led, naturally flexible and usually led by older siblings.
I meet your children where they are, follow their lead and gently guide them where needed. I might ask them to show me their toys or favourite book, something that gives them attention and lets them know they matter too. These sessions are less about posing and more about observing real moments however I’m always on hand to guide you in best light.
It results in natural, sometimes chaotic but always beautiful reflections of your home life. The kind of memories that hold deep meaning later on.
Why trust and connection matter (more than perfection)
Every family wants beautiful photos but what also matters is how you feel during your session.
We all want to feel seen and heard. That applies even more to small children. In my experience, the key to any photoshoot is presence and a willing attitude. If you’re setting aside time in your diary for this, let yourself be in it.
This is especially true for dads (sorry!) – sometimes your role on the day is being fully present with your other children so mum can feed or settle the baby. It can feel little boring but I’d say, enjoy this time together as a family.
If your little one doesn’t want to interact with the baby, we don’t push it. I redirect with play or games and if it works – great. If not, that’s okay and we try something different. That’s why I recommend keeping sessions to just the immediate family. Extra people (yes, even loving grandparents!) can become a distraction or an escape route for the toddler.
What if the day of the photoshoot feels chaotic?
Every photoshoot is different and family dynamics play a huge role. Unsettled baby, overstimulated toddler, exhausted parents – all normal.
We have time. Time to feed the baby. Time to calm emotions. Time to step away and return. You have me in your corner – helping, supporting and gently guiding things without overstepping.
There is always an opportunity for a great photo, even in chaos. And years from now, those photos will remind you just how much love surrounded those early, messy, beautiful days.
What can parents do to prepare for a newborn session with small children?
Here are a few things you can do to help prepare your children and yourself:
Talk to them in advance. Let them know a photographer is coming and what to expect. Show them photos from when they were a baby. Let them hold the baby (safely) if they want to.
Keep expectations light. I don’t need them to smile or perform. Let them be themselves.
Trust your photographer. Every session is unique but I always have your best interest at heart.
Eat and rest beforehand. If naps don’t go to plan, don’t stress but keep the activity prior your photoshoot to a minimum. We can shift the session if there’s room in my diary or we’ll adapt if needed.
Let them be who they are. This one’s hard, especially when you have a vision for your photos. But openness always leads to better outcomes.
Step back when needed. You don’t need to constantly entertain or correct them. Sometimes they respond better when we take the pressure off.
You’re doing better than you think
To me, the best outcome isn’t the perfect shot. It’s when I see a family who, despite the sleepless nights and the big feelings on the day, shows up for one another and finds joy in the moment.
These photos will show you how much love you have for each other – messy hair, wobbly toddler, unsettled baby and all.
Preparing for your own newborn session?
If you have a baby on the way, I’d love to chat. Click here to reach out with any questions or to book your session.
Or, you can download my Welcome Newborn Guide to learn more about my relaxed and baby-led style of photography.