What New Parents Wish They Knew Before Their Newborn Session

If you're approaching your newborn session, it’s natural to have some uncertainty about what to expect. Unlike traditional staged newborn photographs, documentary newborn photography embraces the beauty of unposed moments. There's no pressure to get everything perfectly “just right.” Instead, this style captures the genuine interactions and tender moments as they unfold, creating authentic memories to cherish. Focus on your family connection, and let the session flow naturally.

After working with many new families, I’ve found that most parents have similar questions and concerns. And just as often, they leave the session saying the same thing: “There wasn’t anything to feel nervous about; I wish I’d realised that sooner.”

So here it is. A simple guide to what many parents wish they’d known before their newborn shoot—shared to help you feel more prepared, and hopefully a bit more at ease.

1. Your baby will lead the session - and that’s expected.

Feeding, changing, soothing—these things take time, and they’re built into the session. We move at your baby’s pace. If things pause, that’s not a problem. It’s part of the process.

3. There’s no pressure for your baby to sleep (or to be awake the entire shoot).

Some babies sleep through the session. Others don’t. Either way, it’s fine. What matters most is that your baby is safe and comfortable, not that they’re in a specific pose. I don’t pose your little one - I just capture moments as they come.

4. You don’t need to prepare your home.

There’s no need to tidy everything or set up a perfect space. I work with natural light and use small areas—often just near a window or on a bed. My focus is on your baby and your connection, not the background. Simple, lived-in surroundings are more than enough.

5. You will be in the photos—and it matters.

I always include parents in newborn sessions. These early days aren’t just about your baby—they’re about you, too. There’s no pressure to pose or look a certain way. My aim is to capture natural, honest moments between you and your baby—just as they are.

6. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s honesty.

Your baby might stretch, wriggle, or cry—that’s all part of it. I’m not aiming for perfectly posed images. I’m there to document real moments: the way you hold them, settle them, respond to them. Those quiet, in-between moments often turn out to be the most meaningful.

Final thought

If you're feeling unsure or unprepared, you’re not alone. Most parents are. You don’t need to have all the answers before you arrive. I’ll guide the session, work at your baby’s pace, and help create images that reflect this brief and important time without any added pressure.

If you'd like to talk through anything in advance, you're always welcome to reach out, I’d love to hear from you!

X Irma