How to Prepare for Your Newborn Photography Session

Welcoming a new baby brings plenty to think about. Your newborn photography session should be one part you can look forward to without a long checklist. Here is how to prepare, what to bring, and what to expect at Portraits by Chaya.

When Should You Schedule Newborn Photos?

Reach out during pregnancy so we can talk through your vision and reserve space around your due date. Newborn portraits are typically photographed when baby is about 6 to 20 days old, but every baby and recovery is different. Once your little one arrives, we will choose the session date together.

Explore the full Connecticut newborn photography experience to see how the consultation, session, and portrait reveal come together.

What Should You Bring?

Pack as you would for a comfortable day out with your baby: extra diapers, wipes, milk or feeding supplies, a pacifier if your baby uses one, and a change of clothes. Bring any meaningful keepsake you would like me to consider incorporating into a portrait. Tell me about it ahead of time so I can plan a setting that suits it.

You do not need to bring props or outfits for the styled newborn portraits. The studio has wraps, outfits, and carefully chosen pieces, along with a changing table, bottle warmer, snacks, and coffee.

What Should Parents and Siblings Wear?

We will plan your family's clothing together before the session. Soft neutrals and coordinated tones photograph beautifully in the lifestyle area and allow your connection with your baby to lead the image. You can keep the palette simple without dressing everyone identically. I also have a client closet and can help you choose pieces that work with the portraits you envision.

Parents, siblings, and grandparents are welcome in the photographs. Hair and makeup for mom is part of the experience, so you can feel cared for and ready to step in front of the camera.

Don't Worry About Getting Baby to Sleep Before You Arrive

Feed your baby as you normally would. There is no need to keep your newborn awake or time a feeding perfectly for the camera. We pause for feeding, changing, and soothing whenever your baby needs it. Your baby's comfort guides the pace.

Plan to Get Comfortable

A newborn session often lasts four hours or more, and I never set a time limit. That gives us room to settle in, make adjustments, and photograph your baby without rushing. You can relax in the studio's comfortable seating area while I care for the details.

Your Newborn Gallery Is About More Than One Setup

We create a varied, cohesive gallery with multiple styled sets, classic newborn portraits, and natural photographs with family in the lifestyle area. We can discuss your preferred colors and meaningful details during the consultation, then I will plan the session around them. Browse the newborn portrait gallery for a sense of the range of looks we can create.

After Your Newborn Session

At your in-person reveal and ordering appointment, you will see your finished images and choose the portraits you love. I will guide you through ways to preserve them, from a custom heirloom album to bespoke framed wall art for your home. See the art and products collection for a closer look.

Planning a Newborn Photography Session in Connecticut?

Portraits by Chaya welcomes families from across Connecticut for an unhurried, full-service newborn portrait experience. Schedule your discovery call to begin planning your newborn portraits.

Let's get in touch!