How to Prepare Siblings for a Newborn Photoshoot (Without the Stress!)
Welcoming a new baby into the family is a big deal for everyone, but especially for older siblings. Their world has just changed in a huge way, and while there’s so much love in the air, there can also be a mix of emotions: excitement, curiosity, pride, even a little hesitation. That’s totally normal, and it’s something I think about a lot when photographing families with newborns.
If you’re wondering how to prepare your little ones for your upcoming newborn session, especially if you’ve got a toddler or preschooler in the mix, you’re in the right place. Here’s what I want you to know: this session isn’t just about the baby. It’s about your whole family. Every single one of you plays a part in this beautiful chapter, and I’m here to capture that connection in the most natural, gentle, and joy filled way possible.
Let’s talk through what that looks like when siblings are involved.
We Take It At Their Pace
First things first: I never expect your older child to be ready the second I walk through the door. I know I’m a stranger to them at first, and that can take a minute (or ten) to feel comfortable. That’s okay.
When I arrive, I take time to connect with your kids, chatting, playing, letting them see my camera and get used to me being there. I’ve found that kids are often more curious about me at the beginning of the session, which is why I usually aim to capture sibling shots early on. It tends to work well while their interest and energy is high.
But if they need more time to warm up? No problem. We follow their lead.
Photos Can Be Fun (And Fast!)
I promise not to force anything. If your little one doesn’t want to sit still next to the baby right away, that’s absolutely fine. I won’t ever pressure them into a pose or moment that doesn’t feel right. Some of the sweetest images come from spontaneous cuddles or cheeky peeks at their new sibling rather than anything overly staged.
And the best part? They don’t have to be “on” the whole time. Once we’ve captured a few beautiful moments, they’re free to head off and play, watch TV, snack, whatever works for your family. They can come and go as they please. I want this to feel like a fun morning at home, not a big production.
It’s Not All About the Baby
Something I really want your older child to know, and feel, is that this isn’t just a photoshoot for the baby. It’s a celebration of the family. Of them becoming a big brother or sister. Of their new role and the love you all share.
So I’ll absolutely be including them throughout the session when they’re up for it. That might be cuddles on the bed, giggles with mum or dad, a solo moment of them peeking into the bassinet, or just sitting nearby with their favourite toy while you hold the baby.
Every interaction matters. This session is a reflection of your life right now: full, rich, sometimes chaotic, and always filled with love.
A Few Tips to Help Things Flow Smoothly
Here are a couple of gentle ideas you might find helpful before your session:
Set expectations ahead of time. Let your child know that I’ll be coming to take some special photos of the whole family—not just the baby. Show them a few photos from my website or Instagram so they can see what it’s all about.
Keep things low-pressure. You don’t need to bribe or overly prepare. In fact, the more relaxed you are, the more relaxed they’ll be. Trust me on that one!
Have a snack or activity ready. Sometimes a little break with a favourite toy or a snack in another room can help reset their mood if they need a moment.
Let go of perfection. Your children don’t need to sit still or smile on cue. Some of the most meaningful images I’ve captured are the ones where siblings are just being themselves, curious, cuddly, silly, or even a bit unsure. It’s all part of their story.
You’ve Got This (And I’ve Got You)
At the end of the day, your newborn session should feel like a warm, calm, love filled bubble. No stress. No pressure. Just your family, as you are. I’ll guide you gently through it, and together we’ll capture images that reflect the real magic of this season.
So if you’re worried about how your toddler might behave or how to “prepare” your older child, take a deep breath. I’ve worked with plenty of little ones, and I come prepared with patience, flexibility, and a genuine love for documenting sibling moments, messy hair, big emotions and all.
Because one day, when your children are grown, these photos will tell the story of how it all began.
If you’ve got questions or concerns, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to chat more about what to expect and how I can make the experience wonderful for every member of your family.
