Bringing your new baby to their first professional photoshoot is such a special milestone – and I know it can feel a little overwhelming. Whether you’re a first-time parent or adding to your growing family, I want your time at Lucy Rose Studios to be calm, comfortable, and enjoyable from the moment you walk in.

Here are five simple tips to help you prepare for your newborn session, so you can relax and enjoy the experience.

Timing is everything!

The best time for newborn photos is within the first 5-10 days after birth. That’s when babies are still very sleepy, curled up, and happy to be gently posed.

To help your little one settle for the session, try to feed them just before you leave the house or as soon as you arrive at the studio. A full tummy helps baby stay sleepy and content, which means we can capture those peaceful, snuggly poses you love.

Feed baby at your session

A full tummy is one of the best ways to help your baby feel calm and sleepy for their photos.

If possible, try to time a feed for when you arrive at the studio, or just before you leave home. This way, baby is settled and relaxed, which helps us move smoothly into the session.

If you’re breastfeeding, feel free to feed as soon as you arrive – there’s no rush. If you’re bottle-feeding, bringing an extra feed or two can be really helpful in case baby needs a top-up during the session.

I allow plenty of time for feeding, changing, and cuddles – your baby sets the pace, always.

Keep them warm and cosy

My studio is kept lovely and warm so your baby feels safe and soothed throughout the session – especially since they’ll often be photographed without clothes or wrapped up in soft fabrics.

To make things easy, dress your baby in loose, easy-to-remove layers. This helps us transition into the shoot without waking or disturbing them too much. Don’t worry – I provide all the wraps, outfits, and backdrops, so you don’t need to bring anything fancy!

What to bring

There’s no need to pack much, but a few essentials will make your session run smoothly.

• Nappies and wipes – I will always have spares so don’t panic if you forget the nappy bag!
• A dummy (if you are opting to use one)
• Spare milk if you’re bottle feeding
• Any sentimental items you’d like included (a special blanket, teddy, or family heirloom)

I’ll take care of all the styling and setups – you can simply arrive and let me handle the rest.

Family photos? ALWAYS

If baby has older siblings, they are absolutely welcome to join and I’ll do my best to make them feel involved and special too.

I usually begin with sibling and family photos before focusing on baby alone. This means big brothers and sisters can then relax, play, or head off for a little break. Bringing along a snack, a tablet, or a favourite quiet toy can help keep them entertained in between.

Relax

Honestly, once you arrive at the studio, your only job is to relax. I’ll gently pose, soothe, and care for your baby as if they were my own. You’re welcome to sit back with a warm drink, close your eyes, or just watch the magic unfold.

Many parents tell me the session felt like a little breather – a chance to pause and soak it all in.

Newborn sessions are all about capturing the tiny, fleeting moments you never want to forget. My goal is to make the process easy and enjoyable, so you leave not only with beautiful images but with warm memories of your time in the studio too.

If you have any questions or would like to chat about your upcoming session, just send me a message – I’m here to help. Feel free to explore my website for more information and to see some of the maternity photography I’ve captured. Have questions? Send me a little message here, lovely! I’d love to hear from you.

I can’t wait to welcome you and your little one to Lucy Rose Studios, my newborn photography studio in York. 💛