How to Keep Your Newborn Calm and Comfortable During a Photoshoot
Newborn photography is an incredibly special way to capture the early moments of your baby’s life. Those tiny hands, sleepy smiles, and sweet expressions make for memories you’ll cherish forever. But as any parent knows, keeping a newborn calm and comfortable can be a challenge, especially when you're trying to create the perfect photoshoot.
At Jessica Jo Photo, we specialize in newborn photography in Denver, and our goal is to make sure your little one feels safe, secure, and at ease throughout the session.
Whether this is your baby’s first professional photoshoot or you're a seasoned parent, there are several techniques and strategies to ensure your newborn remains comfortable and cooperative, allowing us to capture beautiful, timeless photos.
Choose the Right Time for Your Newborn Photography Session
Timing is crucial when it comes to newborn photography. A well-timed session will help your baby stay calm and relaxed, making the photoshoot go smoothly.
Ideal Age for Newborn Photos: The best time for newborn photography is usually within the first 7-14 days of life. During this period, newborns are typically sleepier and more flexible, which makes posing and capturing those dreamy shots much easier. They’re also more accustomed to being swaddled, which can help them feel secure during the shoot.
Scheduling the Session: It’s important to book your session in advance to secure a time within this ideal window. We recommend scheduling your session around the time your baby is most likely to be sleepy, such as after a feeding. Newborns are often happiest when they’re full and sleepy, which can lead to the most peaceful photoshoot.
Create a Calm and Cozy Environment
A calm environment plays a significant role in keeping your newborn comfortable during a photoshoot. The more relaxed your baby feels, the better the session will go.
Keep the Room Warm: Newborns are accustomed to the warmth of the womb, so a cozy, warm environment will help them feel comfortable and sleepy. Typically, a newborn photographer will keep the studio at a warm temperature, usually around 75-80°F, to ensure your baby remains comfortable throughout the session.
Dim the Lights: Bright lights can be overwhelming for a newborn. We recommend using soft, ambient lighting during newborn photography sessions. This creates a soothing atmosphere for your baby and helps them stay calm and relaxed.
Use Soft Music or White Noise: Gentle lullabies or white noise can also help soothe your baby. The sound mimics the environment of the womb and can help your newborn feel safe and at ease.
Feeding and Comforting Before the Session
One of the best ways to keep your newborn calm and cooperative is by ensuring they are well-fed and content before the photoshoot begins. A full tummy equals a happy baby!
Feed Before the Session: Try to feed your newborn right before the session starts. This will help them feel comfortable and sleepy, making it easier for us to capture those adorable, peaceful shots. If you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, make sure to have your baby satisfied before the shoot so they don’t get fussy during the session.
Bring Extra Supplies: If you’re concerned about feeding during the session, be sure to bring extra bottles or breast pump supplies to keep your baby calm and satisfied throughout the shoot. A well-fed baby will be much more cooperative, allowing for a smoother experience.
The Power of Swaddling and Gentle Touch
Swaddling is an age-old technique that can help soothe newborns during photoshoots. This technique makes them feel secure, similar to being in the womb, and it can help them relax during the session.
Swaddling for Comfort: A well-swaddled baby feels more secure and less likely to startle themselves awake. Swaddling also helps with posing, allowing us to place your baby in those precious curled-up poses that are so popular in newborn photography.
Gentle Touch: At Jessica Jo Photo, we specialize in newborn sessions and treat each baby with the utmost care and attention. A gentle touch and soft handling can reassure your newborn that they are safe and secure, making the photoshoot process much easier for everyone involved.
Allow for Breaks and Flexibility
Newborns are unpredictable, and that’s okay! It’s important to allow for breaks during the photoshoot. Babies may need to be comforted, fed, or even changed during the session, and we always take the time to ensure your baby’s needs are met.
Take Breaks When Needed: If your baby starts to get fussy or needs a break, don’t worry. We make sure to take breaks throughout the session to help soothe your newborn. These breaks help your baby stay comfortable and calm, allowing us to capture the best photos.
Flexibility is Key: Every baby is different, and we understand that. We take a flexible approach to newborn photography in Denver, adapting to your baby’s needs as they arise. If your baby needs a little extra comfort or a longer break, we’re here for it!
Prepare for the Unexpected
No matter how well you plan, babies can be unpredictable! Sometimes they might need more time to settle down, or they may not want to sleep right away. The key to a successful photoshoot is being prepared for these moments.
Expect the Unexpected: Some babies might need extra time to get comfortable, while others might wake up earlier than expected. We’ll work with you to ensure your baby’s comfort at all times, even if that means adjusting the session schedule to accommodate their needs.
Relax and Trust the Process: It’s important to remain relaxed during the session. Babies can pick up on your energy, so staying calm and patient will help them feel more at ease. Trust that we are experienced in handling newborns and have plenty of tricks up our sleeves to help your baby feel secure and calm.
Consider the Clothing and Props
Choosing the right clothing and props for your newborn’s photoshoot can make a big difference in their comfort level during the session. At Jessica Jo Photo, we offer a range of props and clothing options to help your baby feel at ease and look adorable in their photos.
Simple, Comfortable Clothing: While we can provide clothing for the photoshoot, it’s important to bring simple, comfortable outfits for your baby. Avoid tight-fitting clothes that could cause discomfort during the session. Soft, cotton onesies or wraps are always a good choice for newborns.
Cute Props: We offer a variety of cute props to complement your baby’s photos, from tiny knitted hats to delicate blankets. These props can make your newborn look even more adorable while ensuring their comfort during the shoot.
Choose an Experienced Newborn Photographer
The most important tip to keep your newborn calm and comfortable during a photoshoot is to choose an experienced photographer who specializes in newborn photography. At Jessica Jo Photo, we have years of experience working with newborns and mothers in Denver, and we know how to make the experience as relaxing and enjoyable as possible for both you and your baby.
Our team is trained in newborn photography techniques, including gentle handling, proper posing, and creating a calming environment. We are passionate about capturing the precious moments of your baby’s early days in a way that is safe, comfortable, and beautiful.
Final Thoughts
Newborn photography is a beautiful way to celebrate the arrival of your little one, but keeping your baby calm and comfortable during the session is essential for capturing those perfect moments. By following these tips, including choosing the right time for the session, creating a calming environment, and working with an experienced newborn photographer, you can ensure that your baby’s photoshoot goes smoothly and results in stunning photographs that you’ll treasure forever.
If you're looking for newborn photography in Denver, Jessica Jo Photo is here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule your session and capture those precious moments with your newborn!
