How to Prepare for Your Newborn Session
Welcoming a new baby into the world is one of life’s most precious moments, and I’m truly honored each time a family chooses me to photograph those first days. My goal is to create a calm, safe, and beautiful experience for your family- one that results in timeless images you’ll treasure forever.
To help you feel fully prepared, here’s a simple guide on what to bring, how to dress baby, and what you can expect when you arrive at my Pawtucket, RI newborn studio.
1. What to Bring
You actually don’t need much! My studio is fully stocked with everything needed for a newborn session, including wraps, props, headbands, outfits, and blankets. Still, there are a few items that can make your experience even smoother:
✔ Essentials to Pack
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Diaper bag with diapers, wipes, and extra outfits
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Milk — whether breastmilk or formula (please bring more than you think you’ll need)
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Pacifier — even if baby doesn’t normally take one, it can help soothe during transitions
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Snacks & water for parents — you’ll be here a couple of hours, so staying comfortable is key
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Anything sentimental you’d love included: a blanket, a family heirloom, or a special keepsake
2. How to Dress Baby
Keeping baby comfortable is the secret to a smooth, sleepy session.
✔ Simple is Best
Dress your newborn in:
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A loose-fitting zip or snap sleeper
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Avoid anything that pulls over the head
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Skip tight socks and onesies — leaving marks on baby’s skin can delay posing
When you arrive, I’ll take care of the rest. Most images are done using my studio’s wraps, outfits, and props, all chosen to complement your aesthetic and color preferences.
3. What Parents & Siblings Should Wear
Family photos are always some of the most meaningful, and neutral, timeless clothing photographs beautifully.
✔ For Parents
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Soft, neutral tones like cream, beige, gray, or light pastels
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Simple, solid pieces without patterns
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Comfortable clothing — you’ll be sitting, snuggling, and relaxing
✔ For Siblings
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Neutral or light-colored outfits
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Avoid characters, logos, or bold patterns
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For younger children, simple dresses or plain shirts with jeans work perfectly
If you’re unsure, feel free to send me outfit ideas beforehand — I’m always happy to help coordinate.
4. Feeding Tips for a Smooth Session
A well-fed baby is a sleepy, content baby — which is ideal for posing.
Before You Arrive
Try to feed baby right before you leave home or plan to feed once you get to the studio. Either works — the goal is to have baby full and cozy.
During the Session
Expect to take breaks whenever baby needs:
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Feeding
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Burping
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Diaper changes
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Snuggles for comfort
There is absolutely no rush. I follow baby’s cues, not the clock.
5. How I Handle Siblings
Sibling photos are often a favorite, and I want them to feel excited and involved.
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These images are typically done first so young children can relax afterwards.
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The studio is a quiet, cozy environment, so I encourage bringing a small toy, tablet, or snack to keep them comfortable when they’re not being photographed.
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Safety is always the priority — all poses are guided carefully, and little ones are never placed in unsafe positions.
6. How Parents Can Relax During the Session
Newborn sessions are intentionally slow and peaceful — most parents even take a little nap while I work!
You can expect:
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A warm, cozy studio to help baby stay sleepy
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Soft white noise playing
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A comfortable seating area for you to relax
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A clean, private environment — I schedule only one newborn session per day, so you’ll never feel rushed or interrupted
Your only job is to sit back, unwind, and enjoy the experience while I take care of everything else.
7. Final Thoughts
Preparing for your newborn session doesn’t need to be complicated. With a few simple steps, you’ll be ready for a beautiful, stress-free day filled with snuggles, sweetness, and memories you’ll cherish forever.
If you have any questions leading up to your session, please reach out anytime — I’m here to help make this experience unforgettable for your family
Contact me to schedule your session!
📍 Fallon Photographic Art | Rhode Island Newborn Photographer
Serving families in Rhode Island and select areas of Southern Massachusetts.
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