How to Prepare for Your Newborn Session: A Stress-Free Guide for New Moms
How to Prepare for Your Newborn Session
A Stress-Free Guide for New Moms
If you're preparing for your first newborn photography session — first of all, congratulations! This is such a special (and often sleep-deprived) season, and I’m so honored to help you preserve it.
Whether you're feeling super prepared or a little overwhelmed, here’s everything you need to know to walk into your session calm, confident, and excited to capture these fleeting moments.
🕰️ 1. Timing is Everything
We schedule your session within the first 5–14 days after birth — when babies are sleepiest and most flexible. Once you're booked, I’ll reserve a spot on my calendar around your due date and adjust as needed once baby arrives.
Tip: Don’t wait until baby is born to reach out — I only take a limited number of due dates each month.
🧺 2. What to Bring (and What Not To)
When you arrive at the studio, I want you to feel like you can exhale.
Here’s what I provide — and what you can leave at home:
You don’t need:
Pinterest-perfect props
A giant bag of baby clothes
Anything fancy or stressful
Just bring:
Baby (fed and ready to nap if possible)
A pacifier, if you’re using one
Bottles, formula, or snacks if needed
Any sentimental items you’d like to include (a swaddle, heirloom blanket, etc.)
Bonus: I have a full studio wardrobe for moms and babies with neutral, flattering pieces that photograph beautifully.
👗 3. What to Wear
Simple. Soft. Comfortable.
That’s the golden rule for what to wear to your newborn session.
Stick to neutral colors — ivory, beige, soft pastels, muted earth tones
Avoid logos, bright colors, or heavy patterns
Moms: flowy dresses and cozy knits are always a win (I’ve got options ready for you!)
Dads: plain tees, henleys, or light sweaters work great
Tip: Your hands and arms will be in many of the shots — keep nails clean and neutral if possible.
🧘♀️ 4. Relax — We’ve Got It
This may be the first time you’ve left the house with a new baby. That’s a big deal. So here’s my promise:
You are not expected to have it all together.
Crying babies, blowouts, feedings — it’s all normal, and all welcome. My sessions are baby-led and relaxed, with lots of time built in for cuddles, feeding, and soothing.
Your only job? Show up. Breathe. Be present. I’ll handle the rest.
✨ 5. Trust the Process
Every baby is different. Some sleep the whole session, others stay wide-eyed the entire time. Either way, we’ll capture beautiful, meaningful images of your baby exactly as they are.
What matters most? That you’ll walk away with memories you can hold — the little stretch, the fuzzy hair swirl, the way they curl into your chest.
Final Thoughts
Your newborn session shouldn’t feel like one more thing on your to-do list. It should feel like a pause — a sacred little pocket of time to soak in what’s real and raw and beautiful about these early days.
At Poppy Lea Photography, I’m here to make it effortless.
If you’re expecting in 2025, I’d love to create something truly special for your family.
📍 Based in San Juan Capistrano | Serving Orange County
📸 Booking newborn sessions through Fall 2025
💌 Inquire Now