Welcoming a newborn into the world is an emotional, overwhelming, and magical experience. The days are filled with a whirlwind of emotions as you get to know your little one—each tiny gesture, soft sigh, and innocent smile fills your heart with an unexplainable love. You blink, and the days slip by, and before you know it, your baby is already growing so fast.
This is why a newborn photography session is so special. It’s a chance to capture those fleeting moments—the soft, sleepy curls, the tiny hands and feet, the first days of your baby’s life when they are still so new, so innocent, and so perfectly theirs. A newborn photo session is a way to preserve the magic of those early days that you will treasure forever.
But what can you expect from a newborn photography session? As a photographer, my goal is to make the experience as comfortable, relaxing, and joyful as possible, and to capture the precious memories that will stay with you for a lifetime. Here’s what to expect during your session.
Timing: The First Two Weeks Are Key
The timing of your newborn session is one of the most important factors to consider. Ideally, the best time to book your session is within the first two weeks after your baby is born. During this time, babies are still in that sweet, sleepy phase and are more likely to fall into those adorable, curled-up poses that you see in classic newborn photos. They also tend to be more flexible and easier to settle during this stage, which makes the process smoother for everyone.
But don’t worry if your baby is older than two weeks. I have worked with newborns well past this time, and while they may be a little more alert and active, they still have so much beauty to offer in photos. The key is flexibility. Whether your baby is in that sleepy stage or more awake, we will work together to create beautiful, meaningful images that reflect your baby’s unique personality.
Setting the Scene: Creating a Cozy Environment
One of the first things you’ll notice when you arrive for the session is how calm and cozy the space feels. Newborn photography takes place in a quiet, comfortable environment, whether that’s in a studio or in the comfort of your own home. I like to keep the temperature warm, as newborns are sensitive to temperature changes, and a cozy environment helps them stay relaxed and sleepy during the session.
In the studio, I’ll have soft blankets, props, and a variety of backdrops ready. If you’ve opted for a more posed session, I’ll carefully arrange your baby in those peaceful, curled-up poses that evoke the calmness and serenity of those early days. Every detail, from the colors of the blankets to the soft lighting, is chosen with care to enhance your baby’s natural beauty.
If we’re doing a lifestyle session at your home, the setup is a little more natural but no less intentional. We’ll find spots in your home that feel warm, inviting, and reflective of your family’s style. Whether it's a family snuggle on the couch or an intimate shot in the nursery, the goal is to capture those tender, quiet moments that will become your family’s cherished memories.
Calming Techniques: Keeping Your Baby Relaxed
Newborn sessions are meant to be relaxed and stress-free, both for you and for your baby. Babies thrive in environments where they feel calm and secure, and I always take my time to ensure your baby is comfortable. If they need to be fed or soothed, we take a break—nothing is rushed. I always have soothing techniques on hand to help keep your little one calm, whether that’s gentle rocking, soft shushing, or giving them a little time to settle in between shots.
I’ve learned how to read your baby’s cues and know when it’s time for a break or when they need a little extra comfort. Your baby’s well-being is always my priority, so the session moves at their pace. A calm, relaxed baby makes for the most beautiful photos, so there’s no need to worry if your baby needs a little extra attention during the session—it’s all part of the process.
Poses: Capturing Their Beauty in the Most Natural Way
The beauty of newborn photography lies in its ability to capture the simple yet profound details of your baby’s first days. Poses during a newborn session are gentle and natural, showcasing the tiny features that make your baby uniquely theirs.
One of the most iconic poses is the “froggy pose,” where the baby’s hands rest under their chin, mimicking the fetal position. It’s a peaceful, cozy look that reflects how your baby was in the womb. In addition to posed shots, I also focus on natural moments—like your baby resting peacefully on your chest or gently held in your arms. These moments of connection between you and your baby are so precious, and they are often the most emotional shots of the session.
If you have older siblings, I love to include them in these moments, too. Sibling shots are often the most heartwarming, as older brothers and sisters meet their new baby with curiosity, love, and tenderness. I’ll capture these moments of connection with care, ensuring that your baby’s first family photos reflect the deep bond that is already forming.
Family Photos: Celebrating the Whole Family
A newborn session isn’t just about your little one—it’s about your whole family. After all, your baby is only a part of the beautiful story you’ve created together. Family photos are a wonderful way to capture the love and joy that your baby brings to your lives.
We’ll take time to get a variety of family shots, whether it’s a cozy snuggle on the couch, a tender kiss from a parent, or a moment of connection between siblings. These photos will become treasures, displayed proudly in your home, forever reminding you of the incredible journey you’ve all embarked on together.
The Final Touch: Creating Memories That Last
Once the session is complete, the magic continues with the editing process. I take the time to carefully select and edit each image, ensuring that the final photos are as beautiful and timeless as the moments they capture. Soft lighting, gentle retouching, and a classic, timeless editing style are all part of the process, so that the photos you receive are a true reflection of those first precious days.
But more than just beautiful photos, the final gallery you’ll receive is a gift—one that you can cherish forever. These images will remind you of your baby’s first days, of the overwhelming love and joy you felt as a new parent, and of the beautiful family that surrounds you.
A Precious Memory Captured
Newborn photography is about more than just taking pictures—it’s about capturing a moment in time that will never come again. It’s about preserving the magic of your baby’s first days and celebrating the love, joy, and connection that comes with welcoming them into your family.
From the cozy setup to the calming techniques, the natural poses to the family moments, every step of the process is designed to make you feel relaxed and at ease. And when you look at your newborn photos, years from now, you’ll be able to relive those first moments all over again—memories that will last a lifetime.
Location: Del Mar, CA.
Keywords: beanbag (12), cream (105), Del Mar (12), girl (76), hands under chin (69), wrapped (98). | (858)780-2889 mail@ablphotography.com Working Hours: Mon,Tue,Wed, Thu,Fri,Sat 10 AM–9 PM |