What to Bring to Your Newborn Photography Session: A Complete Checklist for Parents
Packing for your newborn photography session doesn't have to be stressful. A few essentials—such as feeding supplies, diapers, wipes, a pacifier (if your baby uses one), and an extra outfit—can help the session run smoothly. The studio provides wraps, blankets, props, and accessories, so you can focus on enjoying these first precious portraits with your new baby.
Preparing for your newborn photography session can feel overwhelming, especially during those first few weeks with a new baby. The good news is that you don't need to pack nearly as much as you might think.
One of the advantages of booking a full-service newborn photographer is that most of the essentials are already waiting for you. My studio is stocked with wraps, blankets, headbands, bonnets, baskets, props, and everything needed to create a beautiful gallery of timeless portraits.
Still, there are a few things that will help make your session as relaxed and enjoyable as possible.
Feeding Supplies
Whether you're breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or doing a combination of both, plan to bring whatever you normally use to feed your baby.
Newborn sessions are baby-led, which means we'll take feeding breaks whenever your little one needs them. A full, content baby is often a sleepy, relaxed baby.
If you bottle-feed, pack a little more milk or formula than you think you'll need. Sessions typically last two to three hours, and babies sometimes eat more than usual after being gently posed and soothed.
What can be really useful for a successful session is a bottle. So if you also give formula, bring that. And if you exclusively breastfeed, you can pump the night before and bring a bottle or two. The reason a bottle helps is because if I am posing a baby and they get fussy, I can give the bottle to help settle them right there. I do not have to disrupt them by picking them up and out of the pose completely.
Extra Diapers and Wipes
This one probably isn't a surprise!
Babies often need fresh diapers during the session, and occasional accidents are completely normal. I always expect them, and all blankets and fabrics are washed and sanitized after every baby.
Bring a few extra diapers along with your usual wipes so you're prepared for anything.
In my experience, parents often forget these basics. That’s why I do have some extra diapers and wipes here for you to use. But if your baby is picky about these things, I recommend packing the night before so you don’t forget.
A Pacifier (Even if You Rarely Use One)
If your baby already takes a pacifier, I recommend bringing it.
Sometimes a pacifier helps settle a baby between poses without interrupting a sleepy rhythm. If your baby doesn't use one, that's perfectly fine—we'll use other soothing techniques instead.
I have had babies use a pacifier just for their photos and never again. But, there's no pressure to introduce one just for your session. It may take longer, but there are other ways to soothe besides a pacifer.
An Extra Outfit for Baby
Although all of your newborn portraits will feature professional wraps, handmade outfits, or simple diaper-only images, it's always a good idea to bring one extra outfit for traveling home.
Occasional spit-up or diaper accidents happen, and having a clean change of clothes makes the trip home a little easier.
Simple Clothing for Parents
If you're planning family portraits, choose clothing that keeps the focus on your baby.
Neutral colors such as cream, beige, gray, soft earth tones, and muted pastels photograph beautifully and create timeless images.
Avoid:
large logos
neon colors
busy patterns
clothing with lots of wording
Simple textures like knits and linen add interest without distracting from your family's connection.
Coordinated Outfits for Siblings
If brothers or sisters will be part of the session, dress them in clothing that complements—not matches—everyone else.
Comfort is especially important for toddlers. Children who feel comfortable tend to be happier and more cooperative.
Simple, timeless clothing always photographs best.
Meaningful Keepsakes
You're welcome to bring one or two sentimental items if they'd make your portraits more personal.
Some favorites include:
a handmade blanket from Grandma
a special stuffed animal
heirloom jewelry
a family quilt
a military uniform
cultural heirlooms
a meaningful book
A few thoughtfully chosen keepsakes can add personal meaning without overwhelming the photographs.
What You Don't Need to Bring
Many parents are surprised by how much is already provided.
The studio includes a carefully curated collection of:
wraps
blankets
bonnets
headbands
tiny outfits
bowls and baskets
layers and fabrics
posing pillows
seasonal accessories
Unless there's a sentimental item you'd like included, you can simply arrive and enjoy the experience.
Don't Forget Yourself
The first weeks with a newborn can be exhausting.
Bring:
water
a snack
your phone charger
anything that helps you relax during breaks
Many parents use feeding breaks to simply sit back, have a snack, and enjoy watching their baby's first professional portrait session unfold.
A Calm Mind
This may be the most important thing to bring.
Many parents worry that their baby won't sleep, will cry, or won't cooperate.
After photographing more than 350 newborns, I can tell you that every baby is different—and that's completely normal.
Some babies sleep for hours. Others need extra cuddles, feeding breaks, or a little more time to settle. My sessions are never rushed, and your baby's comfort always comes first.
You don't need a "perfect" baby to create beautiful photographs.
You just need your baby. And mom and dad, it is not uncommon for them to get in a solid nap during the session as well. It’s a nice break to let someone else take over, even for a brief while.
Quick Checklist
Before you leave home, make sure you have:
Feeding supplies
Extra diapers and wipes
Pacifier (if your baby uses one)
Going-home outfit
Parent outfits
Sibling outfits
One or two sentimental keepsakes (optional)
Water and snacks
Phone charger
Everything else is already waiting for you at the studio.
Continue Planning Your Newborn Session
These articles can help you prepare for an enjoyable newborn photography experience:
