Welcoming your baby into the world is one of the most incredible moments of your life. Those first days are filled with love, wonder, and a kind of magic that fades far too quickly. As an Edmonton newborn photographer who specializes in capturing authentic, emotional images, I love helping families create heirloom-quality photographs that feel warm and natural. Whether your session is in a studio, your home, or outdoors, these tips will tell you how to keep your newborn calm during a photo session so we can capture all the beauty of this season.

1. Wear Something You Can Nurse In

If you’re breastfeeding, choosing an outfit that allows you to nurse easily can make the session much smoother, helping keep your newborn calm during photo sessions. That way, if baby gets fussy or needs comfort, you can settle them without worrying about changing clothes or struggling with buttons.

My client closet includes beautiful, flattering dresses that not only photograph beautifully but also work well for nursing. You can simply slip one on when you arrive and feel confident knowing it’s perfect for both style and practicality.

2. Or Bring Bottles for Easy Feeding

If you’re bottle-feeding, having a few bottles ready to go can be essential on how to keep your newborn calm during a photo session. Feeding can happen quickly and without stress. Sometimes, just a few sips of milk is all your newborn needs to relax again.

3. Bring Baby in a Sleeper for Easy Changes

If we’re using one of my client closet outfits for baby, dressing them in a soft sleeper makes changing quick and easy. Choose one that zips or snaps down the front so we can slip them into their photo outfit without waking them up or making them uncomfortable.

4. Bring Snacks for Older Siblings

If you have other children, packing a few quiet snacks can make a huge difference. When their hands (and mouths) are busy, you’re free to focus on the baby and soak in these moments without distraction. Keeping your newborn calm during a photo session helps, and a well-fed sibling is also a happier sibling, which aids in making the session run more smoothly.

5. Bring a Pacifier

Even if you’re not using a pacifier regularly, having one on hand can be a lifesaver during a session. Sometimes, part of how to keep your newborn calm during a photo session involves the comfort of sucking, which can soothe baby instantly, giving us more time to capture those calm, sleepy moments you’ll treasure forever.

6. Use Gentle, Soothing Sound

I bring along a portable sound machine to help recreate the familiar “whoosh” babies hear in the womb. This steady, calming sound often helps them settle faster and stay asleep longer, which means more sweet, peaceful images for you.

7. Feed Baby Right Before We Start Shooting

One of the best ways to help your newborn relax is to feed them right before the session begins, as part of knowing how to keep your newborn calm during a photo session. A full tummy often means a sleepy, content baby who’s more likely to snuggle and stay calm for those dreamy shots.

8. Relax and Enjoy the Moment

Your baby can sense your energy. The more relaxed you feel, the more they will too. I take my time during newborn sessions, moving slowly and gently so there’s no rush. If we need to pause for feeding, diaper changes, or cuddles, we do. That’s part of the beauty of capturing your family as you are.

A Calm Baby Makes for Beautiful Photos

Newborn photography is about more than just the pictures. Understanding how to keep your newborn calm during a photo session is key to preserving the connection you feel in these early days, the way your baby fits perfectly in your arms, and the love that fills your home.

If you’re looking for a YEG newborn photographer who will guide you through the entire process and make sure your session is relaxed, beautiful, and full of authentic emotion, I would love to work with you. From my curated client wardrobe to my gentle, baby-first approach, everything is designed to help you feel calm and cared for.

Let’s create something timeless together — reach out today to book your Edmonton newborn photography session.

Additional Resources

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