What to Expect During a Newborn Photography Session

As a newborn photographer serving Asheville, Black Mountain, Marion, and beyond, I often meet parents during one of the most tender seasons of their lives. You’re sleep-deprived, deeply in love, and trying to soak in moments that already feel like they’re slipping by. It’s completely normal to feel excited and unsure about newborn photos—especially if you’ve never done this before. My job is to make the experience calm, safe, and enjoyable, while preserving this fleeting stage in a beautiful, timeless way.

Here’s exactly what you can expect during a newborn photography session, from start to finish.

When Newborn Photos Take Place

Newborn photography sessions are typically scheduled when your baby is between 7 and 14 days old. During this window, babies tend to sleep more deeply and still naturally curl into womb-like positions, which allows for gentle posing and those classic newborn images many parents love. That said, this is a guideline—not a rule. Some babies arrive early or late, some need extra medical care, and some simply take a little longer to settle. If your baby is older than two weeks, beautiful images are still absolutely possible. Awake moments, stretches, eye contact, and connection-focused images can be just as meaningful. I always work with flexibility and compassion, understanding that every baby—and every family—is different.

Before the Session: Simple, Stress-Free Preparation

Before your session, I’ll send you a detailed prep guide so you know exactly how to prepare without feeling overwhelmed. This includes tips on:

• Feeding your baby before the session

• Dressing your baby in loose, easy-to-remove clothing

• What items to bring (extra diapers, wipes, a pacifier—even if they don’t normally use one)

• What parents and siblings should wear if they’re being photographed (or plan to utilize my client closet which is included with your session)

The most important thing to know? You don’t need to do much at all.

If your session is in my studio, everything your baby needs—wraps, outfits, props, heat, and white noise—is already prepared. If your session is in your home, I’ll help you choose the best lighting and guide you into the most flattering spaces. No deep cleaning required. Lived-in homes are welcomed and expected. Simply tidying the areas we will be using is all that will need to be done ahead of time.

A Calm, Baby-Led Experience

Newborn photography is slow by design.Sessions typically last 2–3 hours, allowing plenty of time for feeding, soothing, diaper changes, and cuddles. There is no rush and no pressure for your baby to “perform.” If your baby needs to eat several times, that’s perfectly normal. If they need to be held for a while, we pause. If they’re wide awake, we adjust and capture them just as they are. I follow your baby’s cues every step of the way. Some babies love being posed and wrapped, while others prefer a more natural, relaxed approach. The session unfolds gently, always prioritizing comfort over a specific shot list.

Safety Is Always the Top Priority

Your baby’s safety is never compromised for a photo. As a trained newborn photographer, I use posing techniques that are gentle, supported, and age-appropriate. I never force a baby into a pose, and I constantly monitor their temperature, breathing, and comfort. The studio (or session space) is kept warm to help your baby stay cozy, and all wraps, outfits, and props are cleaned and sanitized between sessions. Hands are washed frequently, and everything is handled with care. . If a pose isn’t safe for your baby, we simply don’t do it.

What Parents Do During the Session

This is often the biggest surprise for parents: you get to rest. Once your baby is settled, most parents sit back and relax. Some scroll their phones, enjoy a cup of coffee or tea, or simply watch their baby being photographed. It’s often one of the few calm pauses you’ll have in those early weeks. If siblings are included, I usually photograph them at the beginning of the session so they can relax afterward. I’ll guide you when I need your help, but for the most part, your only job is to be present and enjoy the experience.

Styling, Props, and a Timeless Look

My style focuses on simplicity and timelessness. I provide a carefully curated collection of soft wraps, neutral outfits, and classic props designed to keep the focus on your baby—not trends.

During the session, I choose colors and textures that photograph beautifully and complement your baby’s skin tone. Everything is selected intentionally to create cohesive, calm images that will still feel beautiful years from now. If you have a meaningful item—such as a blanket from a grandparent, a special outfit, or a sentimental accessory—I’m happy to incorporate it in a safe and thoughtful way.

After the Session: From Images to Heirlooms

After your session, I carefully review and hand-edit each selected image. Editing is done with a light, natural touch—softening skin, adjusting tones, and ensuring your images feel polished but authentic.

You’ll receive your gallery within the timeframe outlined at booking, along with guidance on selecting your images and products. Many parents choose to invest in albums, wall art, or prints—tangible keepsakes that can be enjoyed daily rather than living only on a phone or hard drive.

These images are meant to be seen, held, and passed down.

A Final Word for New Parents

Newborn photography isn’t about perfect behavior, perfect homes, or perfect babies.

It’s about remembering how small they were.The way they curled into you.The quiet moments you didn’t realize you’d miss so much. You don’t need to stress if your baby cries.You don’t need to worry if things feel a little chaotic. You just need to show up with your baby. I’ll take care of the rest.

If you’re expecting and wondering whether newborn photography is right for you, I’d love to answer your questions and help you plan a session that feels calm, meaningful, and true to your family.

✨ These moments pass quickly. Let’s preserve them beautifully. ✨