Session Tips | Preparing Older Siblings For Newborn Portraits
I recently shared some tips for prepping your toddlers for your family portrait sessions. Today, I’m sharing helpful tips for preparing older siblings for newborn portraits. Welcoming a new baby into the family is such a special time, especially when the baby is also welcomed by an older sibling. Including older siblings in the newborn session is important because you’ll always want to remember your babies together in this season. It will be something you will cherish forever!
A newborn portrait session with an older sibling usually takes 1-1.5 hours, depending on how many breaks are needed. I start by getting to know your little ones so they feel comfortable in front of the camera. All of my sessions are captured in documentary style with an emphasis on genuine connections + love, allowing your little ones’ personalities to shine through. We’ll have plenty of time together to document all the things you love about your family!
Here are a few tips:
1. REST & FULL BELLIES BEFORE THE SESSION
Make sure your children are well-rested before your session. A tired or hungry older sibling is not likely to cooperate during the session, Water & mess-free snacks are always encouraged throughout the session!
2. SET EXPECTATIONS BEFORE THE SESSION
Setting expectations before your session is the key! If your little ones are old enough to understand, I recommend preparing them before the session starts. It is important to be patient & relaxed during your session. Children can be unpredictable & it's important to go with the flow while allowing Payne & Co. to photograph all the candid + tender moments. Plan something fun after your session, such as a favorite snack or dessert as a treat afterward!
3. ENCOURAGEMENT & INVOLVEMENT
At Payne & Co, you can expect your older children to be involved + encouraged throughout the session with fun tasks, such as holding the baby's hand or kissing their forehead. These prompts help create heartfelt & authentic portraits, that you as parents will cherish forever. Including older siblings throughout the session allows them to be an important part of the process & helps them to cooperate in such a fun + loving way!
4. FAVORITE TOYS & SNACKS
Have favorite toys or mess-free snacks on hand! This can help keep your children entertained & happy throughout the session!
5. TAKE BREAKS DURING YOUR SESSION
Newborn portrait sessions can take a bit of time & young children can get restless. Taking a quick break to let them stretch their legs or having a snack is always encouraged. Sessions at Payne & Co. are relaxed & designed to be as stress-free as possible. We can always pause & pivot to ensure that everyone leaves happy.
BONUS TIP: WHERE & HOW TO PRINT YOUR NEWBORN PICTURES
Your portraits can be ordered directly through your online gallery. Portraits of your choice will be delivered directly to your home! Payne & Co. will happily assist with all things printing, ordering, & heirloom albums!
Ashley, with Payne & Co., is a wife, toddler mom, former pediatric nurse & New Orleans family photographer specializing in family, motherhood, & lifestyle portraits.
