What to bring to a Newborn Photo Session in the Studio

Edlayne Fernandes
Jul 15
4 min read

When getting ready for a newborn photo session, it is important to have all items in the bag. I always think "It's better have it and not need it, then not having it and need it." Does it make sense?

With that being said, it's important to bring the right supplies to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for both the baby and the parents, so I put a check list of items to consider bringing to your session here at La Dolce Vita Photography by Layne Fernandes.

I love to share this link with my clients but, out of state mamas who find it online, are more than welcome to use it as a check list as well!

How to prepare for a newborn session in the studio

Preferred brand of Diapers
Preferred brand of Wet Wipes
- There are many chances that extra diaper changes will be needed and, unexpected accidents, may happen during the session. Please bring extra diapers and a bag of wet wipes.
Pacifier
- This item is so important as an extra tool and resource to have handy to calm down baby and gain a few minutes of workflow during session. Even if baby doesn't usually use one, please be considerate and bring two pacifiers to your studio session. You will be happy too.
- As babies get adjusted to out of the womb life, digestive discomfort may happen, and a pacifier can be a life safer to a happy camper baby.
Milk or Formula
- All babies are different, and some eat more than others, while at the studio. Believe me, babies seem to know they are not home and will want to eat more than normal. Be prepared to feed baby throughout the session or have extra bottles with enough feeding. I always recommend 5 extra feedings. Remember the saying "better have and not need it than not have and need it..."
Burp Cloths
- Spit-ups and saliva will happen. We love to keep baby feeling comfortable and at ease during studio session.
Arriving Clothes
- Bring baby as comfortable as possible with loose fitting clothing.
Extra Clothing
- It is a great idea to arrive with a couple of extra outfits in case of accidents. The going home outfit must be loose and comfortable too.
Mom's outfit
- We recommend moms to arrive to studio feeling as comfortable as possible! If you are going to be in the photos, you can change in the studio. We ask you to arrive with hair, make up and nails done from home. Please bring a necessaire bag with a hairbrush/comb, lip gloss, makeup brush and face powder for light retouches when needed.
- Our goal is to make the newborn session as comfortable as possible for the baby. We do not offer makeup, hair or nail services in the studio prior to your newborn session. Please keep this in mind and be considerate to your newborn baby session time and photographer's time.
- If you are not planning to have family photos taken, feel free to dress comfortably.
Make up and Grooming Supplies
- For touch-ups during the photo session only. These items will help ensure that the studio session will run smoothly and that we can capture the most cherished moments of your life.
Mom's medications / family members medications
- Please plan on bringing your medications, if you take any and preferred snacks to keep or blood sugar on track, any type of food intolerances or special dietary recommendations.
- Our studio offers light refreshments, fruits, crackers and water. Father may enjoy all items from the light refreshment available that day, without post-partum restrictions.
Snacks and Water
- Studio offers coffee, tea and light refreshments to immediate participants.
- Mom, please refer to "Mom's Medications" bullet line.
Backup Outfits
- Bring an extra change of comfortable clothing for parents and siblings in case of accidents.
Special Requests
- Please remember to communicate with your photographer about any specific moments or items you want to bring and capture during your newborn photo session.
- All our newborn sessions sets are planned and coordinated in advance. This way we can plan your set with your heirloom item accordingly.