
Welcoming your sweet baby into the world is such a special time, and capturing those early moments with a newborn session ensures you’ll have beautiful memories to look back on forever. But let’s be real—newborns are completely unpredictable! They run on their own schedule, and that’s okay. My goal is to create a relaxed, stress-free experience for you while capturing those dreamy, timeless photos you’ll cherish forever.
The good news? A little bit of prep can make a big difference in helping your session run as smoothly as possible! From keeping baby cozy to ensuring their tiny features are picture-perfect, these simple tips will help set the stage for a successful session. But don’t worry, mama—I’ll handle everything else! You just focus on soaking in those newborn snuggles while I capture every precious detail.
1. GET BABY MILK DRUNK
This is my MOST important tip to prepare your newborn for photos!! Feed baby as close to our session start time as possible. A fed baby is usually a happy and sleepy baby. Don’t be surprised if baby wants to eat again mid-session. Photos are hard work!
2. DRESS BABY IN EASY TO REMOVE CLOTHING
Avoid tight outfits, socks, or anything that could leave red marks on baby’s skin. A simple open-front onesie or gown (no over-the-head outfits) makes for a seamless transition into wraps.
I’ll bring several neutral swaddles, so don’t stress about an outfit for baby. They are usually swimming in newborn clothes at this point anyways. A warm, snug swaddle keeps baby calm and sleepy.
3. CHECK FOR BOOGIES
Tiny details make a big difference! To prepare your newborn before your session, gently wipe away any dried milk, boogies, or flaky skin. A soft, damp washcloth or a baby wipe works perfectly for last-minute touch-ups. This helps keep your baby’s skin looking fresh and natural in those close-up shots.
4. BRING A PACIFIER
Even if baby doesn’t normally take one, a pacifier can be a lifesaver for soothing between poses. It helps settle them without needing a full feed.
5. RELAX
Trust the process! Babies can be unpredictable, and that’s okay! I’m experienced and patient in working with newborns, so don’t stress if they need extra soothing, feeding, or breaks. I’ve got you, mama!
Your baby’s newborn session should be a relaxed and enjoyable experience, and a little preparation can go a long way in making it run smoothly. But remember—there’s no pressure for perfection. Babies will be babies, and I’m here to work with their natural rhythms, capturing their sweet, fleeting moments just as they are. So take a deep breath, soak in the newborn snuggles, and let me handle the rest. I can’t wait to create beautiful, timeless images for you to cherish forever!

Madison Z Photography provides newborn and family photography in Eastern North Carolina for busy moms who want a stress-free and luxury portrait experience. Also offering maternity, milestone, and baby photography. Based in Kinston, NC, I serve families in Greenville, Goldsboro, New Bern, Washington, Jacksonville, and all throughout Eastern North Carolina.
I offer a high-end, full-service experience including pre-session preparation, exclusive access to the carefully curated Client Closet, a beautiful gallery of emotion-filled images, and an array of family heirlooms such as albums, prints, custom framing, and more to pass down to your children. If you are searching for the perfect maternity, newborn, milestone, or family portrait photographer near Greenville, NC and want to create heirlooms for your family, I can’t wait to serve you!
March 26, 2025
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