Bringing your baby home is a blur of love, snuggles, and figuring it all out as you go, which is exactly why these newborn photography tips are here to make your session feel effortless, not overwhelming. At blankslate photography, the goal is always the same: to create a calm, easy experience while capturing the most meaningful, fleeting moments of your growing family.
What to Expect From Your Newborn Session
Your newborn session is designed to feel relaxed and natural. Whether we’re in your home or at the studio, we focus on connection over perfection.
Most sessions last around 2 to 3 hours. That gives us plenty of time for feeding breaks, outfit changes, and soothing your baby as needed. There is no rushing here. Your baby sets the pace.
If we’re shooting in your home, we’ll use the best naturally lit spaces. No need to deep clean. Simply tuck away anything you don’t want in photos and we’ll take care of the rest.
If you prefer a more styled setting, the SlateStudio is always an option. It’s a beautifully designed space that allows you to simply show up and settle in.
Plan Ahead (But Keep It Simple).
One of the biggest newborn photography tips is this: keep prep minimal.
I offer a thoughtfully curated client closet with size inclusive dresses for moms and simple, timeless pieces for baby. This means you don’t have to stress about what to wear or rush to buy outfits right after birth.
If you have meaningful items like ultrasound photos, heirloom blankets, or special outfits, set them aside ahead of time so they’re ready to go.
And don’t forget the little details. Trim nails for close up shots and keep everything soft and neutral for a cohesive look.
How to Prepare Baby (and Yourself)
A few small steps can make a big difference in how smooth your session feels:
Try to keep baby awake for a short window before the session so they’re sleepier once we begin
Feed baby right before we start to help them stay calm and settled
Avoid caffeine or spicy foods if you’re nursing, especially within 24 to 48 hours before
Dress baby in something easy to remove to avoid disruptions
For parents, give yourself grace. You don’t need to feel perfectly put together. Hair and makeup can be arranged for studio sessions, and everything is guided step by step so you never feel unsure.
Siblings and Family Moments
If older siblings are part of your session, we’ll keep things flexible and low pressure. Young kids can participate at the beginning and then take a break if needed.
Having a grandparent or extra set of hands nearby can be incredibly helpful once siblings are done being photographed.
These sessions are meant to feel like your real life, just a little more intentional. The snuggles, the in between moments, the way your baby fits perfectly in your arms. That’s what we’re capturing.
Booking Your Session
Blankslate photography takes a limited number of newborn sessions each month, typically around five. This allows every family to receive a fully personalized experience.
That said, it is always worth reaching out, even if your baby has already arrived. Many sessions come together last minute and still turn out beautifully, often using pieces from the client closet to simplify everything.
If you’re dreaming of a relaxed, meaningful newborn session in Wisconsin, this is your sign to make it happen.
Ready to book your Wisconsin newborn session?
Reach out to Cortney at blankslate photography and let’s create something honest, cozy, and completely centered on your family.
