How to Prepare your Toddler for an In-Home Newborn Session

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Baby Penelope | Newport, RI

Welcoming a new baby into the family is one of life’s most precious milestones, and there’s no better way to capture those early days than with an in-home newborn session. Recently, I had the joy of photographing the beautiful M family in their cozy Newport home, and it was nothing short of magical.

From the moment I walked in, the house was filled with warmth and love. The soft natural light streaming through the windows created the perfect backdrop for our session, highlighting every tiny detail of their newest family member. There’s something so special about documenting these moments in the place where life happens—the nursery they’ve lovingly prepared, the master bedroom where late-night snuggles take place, and the arms that hold their baby close.

What I love most about in-home newborn sessions is the relaxed and intimate vibe. There’s no rushing to get everyone out the door or worrying about forgetting a favorite swaddle. Instead, families can focus on being together, and the resulting photos are a true reflection of their connection and love.

What to expect during your in-home newborn session:

During this session, we captured tender moments of the parents holding baby Penelope, as well as sweet details like tiny toes, yawns, and even a few smiles. Lily, the big sister, was full of curiosity and pride, adding an extra layer of joy! These candid moments are the ones families treasure most, as they tell the story of their unique bond. Toddlers can certainly add another element to a session, so I really try to prep my clients well for what to expect.

An in-home session also allows for incorporating personal touches that make the photos even more meaningful. Whether it’s a beloved family heirloom, a favorite blanket, or simply the way the light filters into a specific room, these elements add depth and authenticity to the images.

If you’re considering a newborn session, I highly recommend opting for an in-home experience. Not only does it create a comfortable environment for everyone involved, but it also preserves memories in the place where your family’s story is unfolding.

Tips for preparing your toddler (and yourself) for the session:

If you have a toddler, preparing them for the session can make a huge difference in ensuring the shoot goes smoothly. Here are a few tips on how to prepare your toddler for a in-home newborn session. These tips are sure to make the experience enjoyable for both your littles and yourself!

  1. Have a quiet morning: Try to keep your toddler’s schedule as normal as possible. Make sure they get a filling breakfast to prevent meltdowns. The baby should also be fed right before I arrive.
  2. Baby Acne: Baby acne is very common for babies 2 weeks to 2 months of age. I recommend using Tubby Todd all over ointment to combat it before your session.
  3. Plan the session around your toddler’s schedule: The more “normal” their schedule stays, the better. I always try to plan for a 9 or 10am morning session for families with older siblings. This allows us to wrap up before lunch and nap time.
  4. Keep things short and sweet: Toddlers have limited attention spans, so it’s important to keep the session as short and enjoyable as possible. I try to prioritize full family photos and sibling photos first, then give the toddler a snack break so that I can focus on the newborn. Then I finish up with more “fun” full family/sibling photos.
  5. Have a treat/reward/bribe on hand: No harm in having a little mess free treat such as stickers, bubbles, small toys etc. to keep your toddler engaged and happy throughout the session.
  6. Your energy is their energy: I totally get it! It can be so challenging at times to stay calm when your toddler is having an epic meltdown. Add a new baby into the mix and it can be extra hard! The truth is though, our kids reflect our energy. If your energy is calm, low key, and engaged, they will likely mimic that!

To the M family who welcomed me into their Newport home, thank you for trusting me to capture these fleeting moments. It was an honor to be part of this special chapter in your lives. I hope these photos serve as a timeless reminder of the love and joy that filled your home during those early days.

@mariaburtonphoto

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