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Figuring out how to manage a photoshoot with young children, especially with a newborn in the mix, can certainly be a juggle. Between nap times and potential crankiness on the way, it can be hard to balance everyone all at once.
At Verve Portraits, we know family sessions can be exciting and unpredictable. Whether you are coming in for a newborn shoot or the whole family, our goal is to keep things calm and fun. We want your children to enjoy the photoshoot as much as you do.
On the day of your photo shoot, we recommend arriving 15 minutes early. This time will allow you to find a carpark, get comfortable and get settled in. You will enjoy barista-made coffee or refreshing drinks, and look through our stunning gallery before we start.
By the time we begin the session, everyone will have become familiar with the space. This is an important part of young ones getting ready for photos and feeling at ease.
When booking a shoot time, try to coordinate around nap times so your child is feeling their happiest. For a newborn photoshoot, mid-morning works well, but we have shoot times to suit most and we will do our best to ensure your child can be photographed well before they start to become fidgety, cranky and due for a nap.
Never underestimate the power of snacks. Bring snacks and drinks that are sugar-free, and easy to eat. We love crackers, fruit or mini sandwiches. Let your photographer know what you’ve packed away, so they can let you know when the ideal time is to bring them out.
When older siblings are part of the newborn photoshoot, we love for them to get involved. We gently encourage them to interact, perhaps by telling us “what colour the baby’s eyes are. What’s their favourite food? Mashed peas? Sounds delicious! What do you love about being a big brother or sister? Can you count all of their toes?”
Having them sweetly and gently interact can be a great basis for cooperation. Once they begin to play together organically, the best images can be taken!
In the quieter moments, to help keep your children occupied during the shoot, bringing along their favourite toy or gadget to play with works a treat. The toys could also become a great reminder when looking back on the images in years to come. A token or symbol of what they loved at that precious stage in their lives. For newborn photoshoots, we also recommend bringing a sentimental blanket or toy that holds meaning. These details add warmth and personality to the photos.
Kids love attention, and the camera loves confidence. Maybe your daughter has a tutu she loves to twirl. Maybe your youngest toddler has a favourite funny joke they love to tell, to get everyone laughing along. By the time they’ve finished telling their story about the big, huge fish they saw from that one time, we will have already snapped the perfect portrait.
Sometimes, despite our and your very best efforts to keep them happy, children just simply aren’t in the mood to cooperate, and that’s more than ok. In these circumstances, we simply move on to a different part of the session, which often makes them want to join back in again.
At the end of the day, we want to create an experience you can truly enjoy. The bond that is formed between the children and the photographer is genuine and so special. We aim to go above and beyond for each and every one of our Verve Portrait guests, including you.
Preparation can include feeding and soothing your baby before the session, having comfortable clothes ready, and planning a calm morning so your baby is relaxed and more likely to settle during the shoot.
Newborn sessions usually work best within the first couple of weeks because babies are more likely to sleep through poses and be easier to position, helping the photographer capture gentle, peaceful images.
Bring essentials like nappies, wipes, a favourite blanket or toy, and any outfit changes you want. Having familiar items can help keep your baby calm and comfortable.
Parents can support by staying relaxed, following the photographer’s lead, and tending to the baby’s needs quietly so the session flows smoothly and natural moments can happen.
It’s normal for newborns to wake or fuss. Taking short breaks to feed, cuddle, or calm your baby is expected and helps create a comfortable environment so great photos can still be captured.
