This is one of the most common things expecting parents ask me, and I love that they ask it. It tells me they are already thinking ahead, already imagining the day, already getting excited. So let me make this as simple as possible: you do not need to stress about this. My studio is fully prepared, and your list is shorter than you think.

• Diapers and wipes
• Pacifier if your baby takes one
• Bottle or nursing setup
• A few extra outfits for yourself
• A small personal item if there is something meaningful you want included (optional)

The Studio Is Already Set Up for Your Baby

When you arrive at the studio, everything is ready. I prepare the studio before every single session with a curated selection of props, wraps, blankets, and styled sets chosen specifically for newborn photography. The sets are styled, the lighting is dialed in, and the studio is already warm enough to keep your baby comfortable from the moment you arrive.

The wraps and blankets I use are soft, specifically sized for newborns, and selected to photograph beautifully in my studio lighting. The props, bowls, baskets, and posing setups are chosen because they work, not just because they look good on a shelf. After 25 years of newborn photography I have a clear sense of what creates a timeless image and what dates a gallery within a few years. Everything in my studio is chosen with that in mind.

You are welcome to bring a small personal item if there is something meaningful you want included, a stuffed animal that belonged to you as a child, a tiny pair of shoes that were a gift, something along those lines. Just keep it simple and let me know ahead of time so I can think about how to work it in. But please know that you do not need to bring anything from home to have a beautiful, complete gallery. The studio has everything your baby needs.

What to Bring for Your Baby

Your packing list for a newborn session is essentially the same as your packing list for any outing with a new baby. Diapers and wipes, a pacifier if your baby takes one, and a bottle or your nursing setup if you are breastfeeding.

One thing I always tell parents: babies need a full tummy for a smooth session. When babies are content and sleepy, they settle into poses more easily, transition between setups more smoothly, and generally cooperate in a way that only a satisfied newborn can. If you live close to the studio (10-15 minutes away) it might make the most sense to feed your baby before leaving. If not, we start with feeding your baby before the photography begins and I build feeding time into every session schedule because babies will eat again before we are done, and that is completely expected. But starting the session with a full baby makes everything go more gently.

Pack a few extra outfits for yourself too, not because you will necessarily need them, but because new babies are unpredictable and it is nice to have options if something happens on the drive over. I also send a prep guide before every session with specific recommendations on colors and styles that photograph well in the studio. The short version: soft neutrals, simple layers, nothing with large prints or logos. But I will walk you through all of that in your pre-session email.

What About Outfits for the Baby?

You do not need to bring clothing for your baby. Newborn sessions are almost entirely done with wraps and blankets rather than outfits, because that is what allows for the snug, curled, peaceful poses that define this style of photography. A onesie or sleeper is a sweet keepsake but it does not translate the same way on camera. The wraps I use are chosen to complement my studio palette and work across a variety of skin tones and set colors.

If you have a special coming-home outfit or a handmade blanket you want documented, bring it. I can work it into the session. Just do not feel any pressure to shop for newborn photo outfits. Your baby will be perfectly dressed in exactly what I have waiting

The Short Version

Bring your baby, your diaper bag, and yourself. I will handle the rest. If you have questions about what to expect on session day, I am always happy to talk through it. You can reach me at 425.232.5263 or book your session at ijphoto.net.