How to Prepare for Your Newborn & Lifestyle Photography Session in Bergen County, NJ

What to Wear for Family Portraits

For both newborn and lifestyle sessions, I recommend neutral, soft tones that complement one another.

Think:

• Creams, ivories, soft beiges
• Light gray, oatmeal, muted blush
• Simple textures like knits or linen

Avoid bold patterns, logos, and bright colors. Timeless clothing keeps the focus on connection, emotion, and your baby—not distractions.

What to Bring to Your Newborn Session

Pacifier:

Even if your baby doesn’t regularly take one, please bring a pacifier. It’s incredibly helpful for soothing during transitions and will not cause nipple confusion, even for breastfed babies. (Pediatrician #1 recommended pacifier from Amazon.)

Blanket

I’ll be using a blanket during your session so your scent can help soothe and comfort your baby.

Bottled Breastmilk and/or Formula

Feeding before and during the session is essential. If your milk hasn’t come in yet, I highly recommend bringing formula—this helps keep baby full, sleepy, and content.

Other Essentials

• Diapers
• Wipes ( I highly recommend these wipes from amazon)
• Extra change of clothes (for baby)
• Hairbrush
• Gas drops (my favorite ones from amazon)



What to Do at Home Before Your Session

A calm, sleepy baby leads to a smoother session—here’s how to help set that up:

• Try to keep baby awake as much as possible before leaving for the studio
• Allow some diaper-free time, followed by a bath
• If baby still has their umbilical cord, a sponge bath is perfectly fine—just be sure to wash their hair
• Dress baby in a loose-fitting zip or button-up sleeper
• Avoid tight clothing or anything that must be pulled over the head
• Do not place a onesie underneath
• Give baby an extra feeding before placing them in the car seat
• Allow baby to fall asleep during the drive

When you arrive, please leave baby buckled in the car seat—I will carefully unbuckle and transfer baby once you’re inside.

During Your Newborn or Lifestyle Session

Newborn sessions typically last 1–3 hours, allowing plenty of time for:

• Feeding
• Soothing
• Gentle posing

The studio will be kept between 80–85 degrees to keep your baby comfortable, so I recommend dressing in layers.  Please bring an extra outfit for yourself as well—accidents happen, and it’s completely normal. If you are breastfeeding, I recommend avoiding spicy or gassy foods 24–48 hours prior to your session.

And a gentle reminder—babies poop and pee. It’s all part of the process, so please don’t feel embarrassed at all.

All props, wraps, and styling are fully provided—there’s no need to bring anything additional.

Studio vs. Lifestyle Newborn Sessions

• Studio Newborn Sessions focus on softly posed images with curated props, wraps, and a controlled environment
• Lifestyle Newborn Sessions take place in your home and highlight natural connection, real moments, and your family’s everyday love

Both styles are beautiful—it simply comes down to what feels right for your family.



Serving Bergen County & Northern New Jersey Families

I proudly photograph newborn and lifestyle sessions throughout Bergen County and Northern New Jersey, including Franklin Lakes, Ridgewood, Wyckoff, Paramus, Wayne, Midland Park, Waldwick, and surrounding towns.

If you’re expecting and would love guidance every step of the way, I’d be honored to document this chapter for you.

Ready to Book Your Newborn Session?

Newborn sessions are best photographed within the first 7–14 days after birth and are booked in advance to ensure availability.

I can’t wait to create something beautiful for your family.