What to Know Before Your Baby’s First Portrait Session
Welcoming a new baby is one of life’s sweetest milestones—and as a Cincinnati newborn photographer, I know just how important it is to preserve those early days with timeless, heartfelt images. Whether you’re planning a cozy studio newborn session in Cincinnati or an intimate in-home lifestyle newborn session, preparing ahead of time can make the entire experience stress-free and enjoyable.
Here are my top tips to help you get the most out of your newborn session:
1. Book Early (Ideally During Your Second Trimester)
The best time to schedule your newborn photo session is while you’re still expecting. I recommend booking during your second or early third trimester so we can reserve a flexible spot on my calendar based on your due date. I only accept TWO due dates per week for advance booking, so that I can be sure to accommodate early and late arrivals!
Most Cincinnati newborn photography sessions take place within the first 5 to 14 days after birth, when babies are sleepiest and most naturally posed. Booking early ensures you won’t miss that beautiful window when they’re still tiny and curled up.
2. Choose the Right Type of Session for Your Family
I offer both studio newborn sessions and in-home lifestyle newborn sessions in Cincinnati, and both are wonderful in their own way.
- Studio Sessions are perfect if you love clean, classic images with soft wraps, bonnets, and posed setups. My Cincinnati studio is designed to be warm, cozy, and fully stocked with everything you need—from blankets and headbands to neutral backdrops and soothing white noise.
- In-Home Newborn Sessions focus on storytelling and connection in your natural environment. These sessions are more relaxed and capture real-life moments in the nursery, snuggles on the couch, and your family’s everyday rhythm during those early days.
Not sure which is best? I’m happy to walk you through the options and help you decide what fits your style and comfort best.
3. Keep Baby Comfortable: Feed Right Before the Session
A well-fed baby is a happy, sleepy baby—and that’s exactly what we want for soft, cozy portraits. Try to give your baby a full feeding right before the session starts. If we’re at your home, you can feed once I arrive and begin setting up. If you’re coming to the studio, I recommend feeding baby very well just before you put them in the car seat to drive over, but we’ll be sure to take breaks if needed!
4. Dress Baby in Easy-to-Remove Layers
For a smooth transition into wraps or swaddles, dress baby in a zip-up or snap-front outfit. Avoid anything that has to go over their head, as we want to keep them undisturbed while getting ready.
Don’t worry about choosing outfits for baby—whether we’re at your home or in the studio, I provide a selection of wraps, blankets, bonnets, and headbands in timeless, soft colors.
5. What to Wear: Keep It Simple for Parents & Siblings
Neutral, solid colors photograph beautifully and keep the focus on your baby and connection. Soft textures like knits and cottons add warmth without distraction. Avoid busy patterns or logos.
If siblings are joining the session, simple outfits in coordinating tones work best. I’m always happy to help with styling guidance beforehand!
6. Stay Relaxed and Let the Moments Unfold
Babies sense our energy. I’ve photographed hundreds of newborns, and I know how to safely pose, swaddle, and soothe your little one—so you can relax and enjoy this time.
Newborn sessions are never rushed. Whether baby needs a break to feed, be changed, or snuggle, we’ll follow their lead and move at a calm pace. Some of the most beautiful moments come from simply letting your baby be your baby.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Worry About a Perfect Home
If you choose an in-home newborn session in Cincinnati, please don’t stress about tidying every corner. We’ll focus on areas with the best light—usually the nursery, master bedroom, or living room—and I’ll guide you every step of the way. What matters most is the emotion, not perfection.
Looking for a Newborn Photographer in Cincinnati
Whether you’re dreaming of posed studio newborn portraits or a natural, lifestyle session at home, I’d be honored to document this incredible season for your family.
My approach is gentle, baby-led, and focused on preserving connection, love, and all the tiny details you’ll never want to forget.
Now booking summer and fall due dates for both studio and in-home newborn photography in Cincinnati and surrounding areas.
Click below to learn more about session options, availability, and how we can create something truly meaningful together.
Contact Me to Book Your Newborn Session
