The Essential Checklist for a Stress-Free Newborn Session

Welcoming a new baby is one of life’s most meaningful moments. Those first tiny stretches, soft newborn curls, and delicate little features change in the blink of an eye. As a newborn photographer in Concord Township, Ohio, I specialize in capturing these fleeting days for families throughout Mentor, Painesville, and Northeast Ohio.

If you’re preparing for your baby’s session, here is your essential guide to ensure a smooth, relaxed, and beautiful newborn photography experience.

1. A Full Belly = A Sleepy Baby

The number one secret to a successful newborn session? A well-fed baby.

Plan to feed your baby right before the session begins (or as soon as you arrive if you're coming to the studio). A full tummy helps baby stay sleepy and relaxed, which allows for those dreamy, curled-up poses.

Pro tip: Even if baby just ate, we always allow extra time for feeding breaks. There’s no rush.

2. Simple Clothing, I provide everything needed for the session.

For newborn sessions, less is more.

Babies photograph beautifully in:

Soft neutral wraps
Simple white or cream onesies
Diaper-only for natural poses
Classic swaddles. I have a wide range of swaddles, outfits and headbands which I coordinate with props and backdrops for every session.

3. Parent & Sibling Outfit Guide

If you’re planning to be in photos (which I highly recommend!), choose soft, neutral tones like:

Cream
Beige
Soft gray
Muted pastels

Avoid neon colors and busy prints. Keep it simple and cohesive — baby should be the focus.

For siblings, soft textures and neutral outfits photograph beautifully and keep the look timeless.

4. Special Meaningful Items

Feel free to bring:

A special blanket
A family heirloom
A meaningful stuffed animal
Baby’s name sign

Just keep in mind — simplicity photographs best. A few meaningful touches are perfect.

5. Expect It to Be Warm

Newborn sessions are intentionally warm and cozy to keep baby comfortable (especially during wrapped or diaper poses). Dress in layers so you stay comfortable too.

6. Trust the Process

Newborn sessions are calm, baby-led, and relaxed.

There will be:

Feeding breaks
Diaper changes
Extra soothing time

That’s completely normal. The most beautiful images happen when everyone feels relaxed.

7. The Best Time to Schedule

The ideal window for newborn photography is between 5–14 days old. During this time, babies are typically sleepier and naturally curl into those sweet womb-like poses.

That said — beautiful images can be created at any age.

Final Thoughts

Your only job during a newborn session is to show up and love your baby. Everything else is taken care of.

These early days are fleeting — the tiny fingers, wrinkled toes, and sleepy smiles change faster than you think. Investing in professional newborn photography ensures you’ll have tangible memories to hold onto forever.

If you’re expecting and would love to reserve your session, reach out early to secure your due date on the calendar.

The Essential List for a Newborn Photoshoot | Cleveland Ohio Photographer