Welcoming a new sibling can sometimes be difficult for young children and toddlers, and I recommend bearing this in mind when booking your newborn shoot. At the time of booking, we will pencil in a provisional date but, if you feel you all need a little more time to adjust, we can move the date to a time that is right for you all. It’s one of the reasons I held back on having my own newborn photos done after having my son.  

Here are a few tips and ideas for preparing your older child for a photo shoot with their new sibling:  

1. Let them know the photographer is coming over to have fun and play with everyone in the family. They’ll then feel the photo shoot is just as much about them as it is their new baby brother or sister.  

2. Do not change their routine for the sake of the photo shoot. I can easily work around snack, lunch and nap times.  

3. Do not worry if you child is usually very shy around strangers, it is totally natural and I am used to it. I promise we will be best of friends by the end of the morning.  

4. If possible, allow your child to hold and touch your new baby before the session and give them lots of positive encouragement. This will help them feel comfortable and connected to their new sibling and won’t be a big shock when you ask them to do it on the day of the photo shoot.  

5. During the shoot, do not worry if your older child doesn’t want to be involved or sit still in the photographs. I’ll give plenty of time for them to play and have breaks – the best photos are always those that aren’t forced.      

If you are interested in booking a newborn photo shoot for your baby, I would love to hear from you. You can use the contact form at the bottom of this page or click here for more information on my at-home newborn photography.