If you’re wondering whether parents and siblings can be included in newborn photos, you’re definitely not alone.

This is one of the most common questions I hear from growing families across Seattle and Snohomish County. Many parents love the idea of capturing those first family moments but aren’t sure what’s typical — or what will feel manageable with a brand-new baby.

The good news is that family portraits are absolutely possible during newborn sessions, and they often become some of the most meaningful images from the entire experience.

As an Everett newborn photographer with more than 25 years of experience, I guide families through this portion of the session so it feels calm, natural, and never overwhelming.

Yes — Parents and Siblings Can Be Included

At IJ Photo, family photos during your newborn session are optional but always available.

Many Seattle and Everett families choose to include:

• parent and baby portraits

• sibling and baby images

• full family photos

• individual moments with baby

Others prefer to focus primarily on the newborn. Both approaches are completely okay.

If you'd like to see how a newborn session is structured, you can explore my Everett newborn photography experience.

Family Photos Are Included in the Bump-to-Baby Experience

One thing many parents don’t realize is that when you choose the Bump-to-Baby bundle, your partner and children are welcome to participate in both sessions.

That means you can capture:

• connection during your maternity session

• sibling introductions with the baby

• updated family portraits

• and those first tender moments together

Families love having the option to document this full chapter of growth, from pregnancy through baby’s arrival, without needing to book separate experiences.

For many busy Seattle-area parents, this built-in flexibility is a huge relief.

When Family Photos Usually Happen During the Session

To keep the experience smooth and baby-led, family portraits are typically photographed at the end of the newborn session. Siblings and extended family are asked to arrive 30 minutes prior to the end of the session

This helps because:

• Young children don’t have to wait long

• Parents can relax afterward

• The session flows more efficiently

Once family images are complete, we review your photos on the big screen so everyone can enjoy seeing all of the photos and help order.

This structure works especially well for busy Seattle-area families with toddlers.

What Parents Should Wear for Newborn Photos

Simple, neutral clothing photographs best and keeps the focus on your connection with baby.

Most Everett and Seattle families choose:

• soft neutral tones

• minimal patterns

• simple textures

• coordinated (not matching) outfits

I guide you ahead of time so you don’t have to guess what will look best in the final images.

Preparing Siblings for a Smooth Session

Parents often worry most about how older siblings will do — especially toddlers.

After photographing hundreds of families, I’ve found a few things that help sessions go smoothly:

• keep expectations light and positive

• bring a small comfort item if helpful

• trust the process and stay relaxed

My approach is always gentle and flexible, meeting children where they are developmentally.

What If My Toddler Doesn’t Cooperate?

This is such a normal concern — and something I plan for with every family.

With more than 25 years of experience (and as a mom of four myself), I use a calm, low-pressure approach that helps children feel comfortable quickly.

Even when toddlers are feeling unsure at first, we can almost always capture beautiful connection moments.

And remember — newborn sessions are baby-led and flexible by design.

A Calm Studio Experience for Seattle & Everett Families

My Everett newborn photography studio is designed specifically to keep sessions comfortable for both babies and parents.

Located just minutes off I-5, the studio is convenient for families coming from:

• Seattle

• Bothell

• Lynnwood

• Mill Creek

• Marysville

• throughout Snohomish County

From guided posing to a baby-safe environment, every detail is structured to help families feel supported from start to finish.

If you're looking for an Everett newborn photographer who serves Seattle families and creates a relaxed experience for the whole family, you can contact me, and I’ll help you plan your session.

Final Thoughts

Those first family moments with your new baby are incredibly meaningful — and absolutely worth preserving.

Whether you choose to include parents and siblings in your newborn session, your maternity session, or both through the Bump-to-Baby experience, your time in the studio will be guided in a way that feels calm, natural, and manageable for your family’s season of life.

If you’re unsure what will work best for your crew, I’m always happy to help you plan a session that feels just right.