With an older sibling in the mix for newborn photos, it is important to prepare them so they feel included and excited. Please read over the guide below prior to your session to help prepare a sibling the day before and support them during the session.


In addition to the tips below, keep in mind my photography style is very unposed, joyful, & relaxed. And as a mom of 3 who had 3 kids 3 & under, I truly understand how vulnerable the postpartum stage can be. Enjoy the moment with your littles & I promise you, I will take of the rest while documenting all the love for family has for each other.

tips for day before:


Preparing your child the day before can make a big difference in how they feel on photo day.


Keep it positive with low pressure :).


On the day before, please have the following conversations with your child(ren).


Explain what is happening in a positive & exciting way. Let them know....

  • "Sarah is coming over tomorrow to take some pictures of our family and your new baby sister/brother."
  • Explain how you are going to play games, you can show her your favorite toys, and read books.


Highlight their important role. Make them feel like a star. Let them know...

  • "You are going to be such a big help. The photographer wants to take pictures of how awesome you are as a big brother/sister. I am so proud of you"
  • "You get to show how much you love your new baby brother/sister and how good you are at helping mommy and daddy."
  • Have them select a favorite book they want to read to their baby brother/sister tomorrow.

tips for day of:


Prep your kids! Keep it positive.


Always feed prior. Please, please, please make sure they have full bellies before the session! This will make for happier toddlers.


Bribes. Don't threaten or have a consequence for them if they "don't behave." Instead, have a positive reward (ice cream, new activity book etc.) for them to do after their session.


Stay positive. Your children will pick up on your emotions. Enjoy the moment, smile, laugh, & love on your babies. Don't force smiles or tell them to "look at the camera and smile." The more relaxed you are, the more relaxed your kids will be during the session.


Frequent breaks. Toddlers truly run the show during newborn sessions. We will take plenty of breaks & give them the chance to warm up when they are ready.


Let the photographer lead & don't force poses. I promise you, I have plenty of tricks ready to go to help your toddler engage with their new sibling. The less pressure they are feeling to "pose" the smoother the session will flow. It is okay if your child isn't interested in their sibling. Again, I have plenty of strategies I will implement throughout the session to bring out smiles :).


Most importantly... remember candid moments often become the most treasured ones. Let me capture your family in the moment, embrace the beautiful chaos during your session, and I can promise we will create magic!