Newborns don't follow an exact schedule, and sometimes they can be unpredictable. That's completely normal! Every baby is different, and there's no way to guarantee exactly how your baby will behave during a newborn photography session.
However, there are a few simple things you can do before your in-home newborn session to help make the experience easier and encourage your baby to be sleepy and comfortable.
Keep Your Baby Awake Before the Session
Before I arrive, try to keep your baby awake as much as possible.
The goal is to have your baby nice and sleepy during the newborn photoshoot. A sleepy baby usually allows us to move through different poses and outfits more easily, which gives us more variety in your final gallery.
You don't need to force your baby to stay awake if they are clearly tired. Just give them some gentle awake time before the session.

Feed Your Baby Before the Session
Once I arrive, I recommend feeding your baby as much as they comfortably want.
A full tummy combined with being sleepy can help your baby settle into the session and stay comfortable while we photograph them.
Of course, every baby is different. If your baby needs another feeding during the session, that's completely fine. We can take a break whenever they need it.
Keep the Room Warm
About an hour before I arrive, I recommend turning the temperature up to around 75°F.
Newborns are used to being warm and cozy, and keeping the room comfortably warm can help them stay relaxed during their newborn portraits—especially when they're being photographed without a diaper or in minimal clothing.
When we combine a warm environment with a full tummy and a sleepy baby, we have a great recipe for a relaxed newborn session.


What If My Baby Won't Sleep?
Don't worry! This is one of the most common concerns parents have before their newborn photography session.
Even if you've done everything above and your baby is wide awake, it doesn't mean we can't create beautiful images.
I have different poses and approaches that work well with awake babies, too. Sometimes those wide-open eyes end up being some of my favorite photographs!
Your baby doesn't have to sleep through the entire session for us to have a successful photoshoot.
You Don't Have to Have a "Perfect" Baby
After photographing more than 200 babies, I've learned that newborns don't always follow the plan—and that's okay.
Some babies sleep the entire time. Some need several breaks. Some want to be held. Some are wide awake and curious about everything happening around them.
My job is to work with your baby, not against them.
As an Atlanta newborn photographer serving families in Douglasville, Marietta, West Cobb, Smyrna, and surrounding areas, I want your newborn session to feel relaxed and stress-free. If your baby is hungry, we feed them. If they need a diaper change, we take a break. If they need some extra cuddles, we make time for that, too.
There is no need to worry about getting everything "right." I've worked with many different personalities and temperaments, and I know how to adjust the session to your baby's needs.

Planning an In-Home Newborn Photography Session?
One of the best things about an in-home newborn photography session is that you don't have to leave the comfort of your home with your new baby.
I bring the studio experience to you, including the backdrop, professional lighting, newborn outfits, wraps, and props. You can stay home, relax, and let me take care of the details.
All you really need to do is bring your baby, a full tummy, and plenty of love. I'll take care of the rest. 🤍
Let's preserve these first days of your baby's life before they change so quickly.
