Look Amazing, Feel Confident: Your Guide to Perfect Newborn Photos

Newborn with a white flower headband sleeps on a white backdrop. She is draped in a pink blanket ad their is a pumpkin shaped basket behind her and a wooden pumpkin off to her side.

How To Look & Feel Your Best for Newborn Photos

Welcoming a new baby into your life is an incredible and transformative experience. Those first few weeks fly by in a blur of feeding, changing, and adjusting to a new normal. Newborn photos are a wonderful way to capture the fleeting beauty of those early days. To ensure you look and feel your best in these treasured images, be sure to follow these tried and true tips.

1. Timing Is Everything

Newborn sessions are typically best within the first 5-14 days after your baby’s arrival. During this time, babies are still sleepy and easier to pose. Plan ahead by booking your session during your pregnancy, so you’re on the photographer’s schedule and can relax knowing it’s taken care of.

When it comes to the session itself, plan on a morning session. Most newborns are sleepiest in the morning and tend to do better during their session. You should try to keep them awake as long as possible prior to the session. This ensures they will sleep their way through most of it, without needing too many breaks.

A new mother, wearing an off-white sweater dress with her red hair styled simply, kisses the op of her newborn's head.
A newborn baby, wrapped in a brown knit blanket, sleeps in a Moses basket on a white wooden floor.
A woman with red hair, wearing a white sweater dress, rests her head on her husband's shoulder. Her husband, wearing a tan shirt, smiles down at their infant daughter, who is wrapped in a floral lace blanket.

2. Choose Comfortable and Flattering Clothing

For parents:

  • Stick to soft, neutral tones like white, beige, or pastels. These colors are timeless and keep the focus on your baby

  • Avoid bold patterns or logos, as they can be distracting.

  • Opt for flowy fabrics or structured pieces that make you feel confident and comfortable.

For siblings:

  • Coordinate outfits with parents, but don't match exactly.

  • Keep it simple with solid colors or subtle patterns

For baby:

  • Most newborn photographers provide wraps, outfits, and props so you won't need to bring anything special.

  • Dress baby in something that is easy to remove (zipper rompers are great!) so your photographer can get them undressed without disturbing them too much.

3. Rest (As Much As Possible!)

We know sleep might be in short supply, but try to get as much rest as you can before the session. If your baby has a rough night, don’t stress—a good photographer will work around your family’s needs to create beautiful images regardless of how you’re feeling.

4. Keep Hair & Makeup Simple

If you’re doing your own hair and makeup:Full Width

  • Stick to a natural look that enhances your features.

  • Use a bit of concealer to cover any tiredness and a touch of blush for a healthy glow.

If you prefer, consider hiring a professional hair and makeup artist. Many photographers have partnerships with artists who specialize in natural, photo-ready looks.

5. Prepare Your Baby

  • Try to keep baby awake prior to the session so they are nice and sleepy during

  • Bring extra diapers, wipes, and a pacifier (if you use one).

  • Feed your baby about 30 minutes before the session so they are full and nice and sleepy.

  • Dress your baby in a loose, zipped romper to avoid marks on the skin and make it easier for your photographer to undress them.

A newborn baby wearing a white floral headband, sleeps on a white blanket. She is draped in another white blanket.
A newborn baby wearing a white floral headband, sleeps on a white blanket. A pink blanket is draped over her and fanned out behind

6. Relax And Trust Your Photographer

Your photographer’s expertise is to guide you through the session and make it as stress-free as possible. They’ll know how to pose your baby safely (be sure to ask for credentials!), adjust lighting, and capture moments that reflect your family’s unique bond.

7. Bring Meaningful Items

If you have a special blanket, heirloom outfit, or sentimental item, let your photographer know. Including these in your session can make your photos even more meaningful. My own daughters each had baby quilts, sewn by my own grandmother, and I cherish those photos the most!

8. Focus On The Connection

While it’s natural to want to “look perfect,” the most beautiful photos are those that capture genuine emotion. Let your love for your baby shine through—smile, cuddle, and savor the moment.

Here Is How To Look And Feel Your Best At Your Newborn Session

Newborn photos are about celebrating this precious new chapter in your life. By preparing ahead of time and embracing the joy of the moment, you'll create images you'll treasure for a lifetime. If you're considering a newborn session, Hampton Roads Photographer, Justine Renee Photography, would love to help you capture these unforgettable memories. Reach out today to learn more or book your session!

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