Hirak Photography
Let the light in
Hirak Bhattacharjee
06 May, 2025
Newborn Photography
5 min Read Back to Blog Page
How to Prepare Your Baby for a Newborn Photography Session

How to Prepare Your Baby for a Newborn Photography Session

Those first few weeks after your baby arrives are filled with love, wonder and a little bit of chaos. Amid the whirlwind of feedings, naps, and nappy changes, it might seem like a stretch to fit in a professional photo session. But trust us—newborn photography is one of the most treasured keepsakes you’ll ever invest in.
At Letthe Lightin Photography, we’ve captured hundreds of newborns across Perth. We know that behind every peaceful sleeping baby photo is a bit of preparation (and a lot of patience). If you're planning a session for your little one, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to prepare—so the day flows as smoothly as possible and the results are magical.

Why Timing Matters in Newborn Photography

The best time for a newborn photography Perth session is within the first 5 to 14 days after birth. Why? At this stage, babies are typically sleepier, more curled up, and easier to gently pose. Their skin is usually clearer, and they’re more content to be swaddled or nudged into those adorable sleepy positions.
That said—every baby is different. If your little one is a few weeks old, don’t worry. Beautiful photos are still very possible, especially when working with an experienced newborn photographer.

Tips to Prepare Your Baby (and Yourself)

1. Keep Baby Well-Fed Before the Session

A full belly = a happy, sleepy baby. Aim to feed your baby right before the session starts. This helps them feel calm and relaxed, which makes it easier to capture those dreamy, curled-up poses. If you’re traveling to our Perth studio, try to time the feed just before arrival or upon settling in.

Pro Tip: Pack extra bottles or be ready to breastfeed during the session if needed. We allow plenty of time for feeding breaks.

2. Dress Baby in Easy-to-Remove Clothing

Avoid outfits with too many buttons, zips, or tight necks. We recommend bringing your baby in a loose onesie or zip-up suit—something that can be removed easily without waking them. Many of our setups use wraps, swaddles, or simple props, so starting with a cozy, simple outfit makes transitions easier.

3. Keep Baby Warm

Warmth is key to keeping your baby comfortable and sleepy during the session. Our newborn photography studio in Perth is kept at a baby-friendly temperature, and we use soft blankets and warm wraps. Still, bringing a familiar blanket from home can add comfort and scent familiarity, helping your baby settle more easily.

4. Bring Essentials (and Then Some)

Here’s a quick checklist of what to bring:

  • Extra nappies and wipes
  • A dummy (if baby uses one)
  • Extra wraps or swaddles (if you have a favourite)
  • Baby’s favourite toy or comforter
  • Spare outfits for baby—and one for you, just in case
  • Snacks and water for yourself (sessions can last 1–3 hours)

We also recommend packing light snacks if older siblings are joining in the shoot.

5. Plan Around Nap Times, but Stay Flexible

Most newborn shoots are scheduled for mid-morning—babies are generally sleepier at this time. That said, every little one has their own rhythm. Let us know your baby’s usual schedule, and we’ll work around it as best we can. If things don’t go perfectly to plan, that’s okay. We take a calm, baby-led approach to every shoot.

What to Expect During Your Session

At Let The Light In Photography, our Perth-based studio is designed for comfort—both for you and your newborn. Sessions are never rushed. We create a calm, soothing space so your baby can relax (and you can too!).
The typical session runs 2–3 hours, allowing plenty of time for feeding, cuddles, and outfit changes. We offer a curated selection of props, wraps, and backdrops—but always welcome personal touches if you have a theme or heirloom item in mind.

Our goal is simple: to capture your baby just as they are in these fleeting early days—pure, peaceful, and perfect.

What If Baby Won’t Sleep?

Believe it or not, wide-awake babies can still make for beautiful photos. Their big eyes, curious expressions, and tiny fingers make every moment special. We never force a pose. Instead, we follow your baby’s lead and adjust as needed. If baby cries, needs a break, or just wants a cuddle—that’s completely normal. We're parents too, and we get it.

After the Session: What Comes Next?

Within a few days, we’ll send you a sneak peek. Then, we carefully edit the best images to showcase your baby’s natural beauty. You’ll receive a private gallery where you can select your favourites, order prints, or create keepsakes like albums or wall art. This is where the magic really comes together—and where many parents find themselves teary-eyed all over again.

Ready to Book Your Session?

If you're looking for newborn photography in Perth, we’d love to welcome you into our studio. Visit Our Portfolio to view our portfolio and learn more about our process. Or feel free to reach out—we're happy to answer any questions and help you plan a session that fits your family perfectly.

Get in touch today
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