5 Must-Have Photos for Your Newborn Session

mom laying next to her newborn baby

Those first days with your newborn fly by faster than you expect—one minute they’re tiny and sleepy, the next they’re rolling over and outgrowing their bassinet. If you’re wondering which photos from your newborn session actually matter, here are the ones you’ll be glad you captured.

As a mom of five, I’ve been through those blurry, beautiful early weeks many times. When I look back at my own kids’ photos now, the ones I always find myself returning to are the ones where I can see their clear, little faces. It’s a sweetness you think you’ll remember forever, but time has a way of softening those memories. I want to make sure you have those moments frozen in time.

Baby Solo Portraits (Because These Details Don’t Last)

I love focusing on the tiny things: the way their eyelashes rest against their cheeks, their little pouty lips, and those microscopic fingernails. I recently had a sweet mom tell me how much she loved these detailed shots. She mentioned that they grow so quickly, we often forget the very things we stared at for hours in the beginning. These solo portraits serve as a permanent record of just how small they once were.

Mom and Dad with Baby

I know exactly how you feel, mama. You’re sleep-deprived, adjusting to a new rhythm, and the thought of being in front of a camera might feel overwhelming. But I promise, your children will want to see how you looked at them.

To make this easy and comfortable, I always suggest having a friend or family member come over on the day of your session. Let them hold the baby or help with the older kids so you can get a little extra rest and feel ready for your photos without the stress. Whether it’s a quiet moment in a nursing chair or Dad cradling the baby against his chest, these are the images of intimate connection that tell your family’s starting story.

Full Family Photos with the New Baby

family sitting on a white couch with their whole family while they all look at newborn

Adding a new member to the family changes the dynamic in the most beautiful way. I love capturing the “complete” picture—everyone together, focusing on the new life you’ve brought home. Whether we are at a local park or in the comfort of your home, my goal is to keep things natural and stress-free. We don’t worry about “perfect” posing; we focus on the reality of your love.

Siblings with Baby

There is nothing quite like the first few interactions between siblings. Whether they are being extra gentle or a little bit “overly enthusiastic,” these photos become treasures as they grow up together. I’ve been through this five times myself, so I know that sibling dynamics can be unpredictable! My goal is to keep the older kids engaged and safe while capturing that brand-new bond in a way that feels natural, not forced.

The “Why” Behind the Lens

At the end of the day, a newborn session isn’t about a Pinterest-perfect setup—it’s about the heart of your home. I truly believe that photography is a ministry to help women, especially mothers, see their true worth and beauty. These early days are fleeting, and while an iPhone is great for quick snaps, professional photos capture the depth and richness of these moments in a way that lasts a lifetime.

Which of these 5 photos are you most excited to have in your home?

I’m currently putting together a full Newborn Session Prep Guide to help you feel completely prepared for our time together! In the meantime, I’d love to chat with you about your vision for a session in the Temecula or Murrieta area.

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