Sarah Bracci Photograhics
My Top Ten Tips
for a Perfect Newborn Session
I know this is a special and often overwhelming time as you welcome your new baby. These simple tips are based on years of newborn session experience and are designed to help everything run smoothly, so you can relax and enjoy the process.
Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions, along with a few helpful tips to achieve those soft, timeless newborn portraits.
As always, please feel free to reach out if any questions come up as your session approaches.
1. Dress Baby in a Simple Outfit
Please dress baby in a loose sleeper that unzips or unbuttons rather than clothing that needs to be pulled over their head. This helps keep baby settled when transitioning into wraps or outfits.
2. Keep Baby Awake Before the Session
If possible, try to keep baby awake for 60–90 minutes before your session. A bath, diaper change, or gentle play beforehand can help baby arrive ready for a deeper sleep.
3. Plan Ahead (If Possible)
Please avoid scheduling any vaccinations for baby the day before your session, as this can sometimes cause minor skin reactions or temporary marks.
For baby boys who are being circumcised, sessions are typically scheduled at least 2–3 days afterward to allow time for comfort and healing.
4. Feed Baby Before the Session
A full tummy helps baby stay comfortable and sleepy during posing. Plan to feed baby just before leaving home or upon arrival at the studio.
5. Loosen Diaper & Clothing
Loosening baby’s diaper and clothing about 30 minutes before arrival can help prevent marks on their skin so we can begin photographing right away.
6. I Provide Everything Needed
Wraps, bonnets, headbands, and a curated selection of newborn props are available for your session. You’re welcome to bring along any meaningful items you’d like included, though it’s never required.
7. A Comfortable Environment
The studio is kept warm to help baby remain relaxed and sleepy throughout the session. I recommend dressing in layers so you can stay comfortable as needed, and some families choose to bring a backup outfit for themselves, just in case.
You’re welcome to relax on the couch or bed during the session — feel free to bring a book, laptop, or simply take this time to rest while your baby is being photographed.
8. Parents & Siblings
Family and sibling portraits are typically photographed at the beginning of your session and usually take about 20–30 minutes. Afterward, siblings are welcome to head home with another adult so you can relax while I focus on baby for the remainder of the session.
If preferred, siblings and family members may also be brought in during a scheduled window of time partway through the session.
9. Parents: Be Photo-Ready
I love including parents in your newborn session, so please plan to be photographed as well.
Simple, neutral clothing that coordinates (rather than matches) photographs beautifully and keeps the focus on your baby. If you’re unsure what to wear, I’m happy to help — feel free to text me outfit ideas ahead of time.
You may also want to make sure nails are clean and groomed, as your hands are often featured in close-up images with your baby.
10. Trust the Process
Every baby is different. Some sleep right away, while others may need a little extra time. I’ll guide the entire session so you can sit back and enjoy this special moment.
+ For Breastfeeding Mothers
If you are breastfeeding, limiting caffeine and excess sugar intake in the 24 hours leading up to your session can sometimes help baby stay more settled and relaxed.
+What to bring
• Extra breast milk or formula
• Extra diapers
• Wet wipes
• Pacifier
• Any unique props or clothing that are meaningful to your family.
