How to Prepare for Your Newborn Photography Session – A Calm & Simple Guide for New Parents
How to Prepare for Your Newborn Photoshoot in Gloucestershire
Welcoming a newborn is a magical time — but it can also feel a little overwhelming. If you’ve booked a newborn photography session (or are thinking about it!), you might be wondering what you need to do to get ready.
The good news? I’ve got you. As a newborn photographer based in Lydney, Gloucestershire, I’ve created a calm, baby-led experience — and I’ll guide you every step of the way. Here's how to prepare, relax, and make the most of your session.
What to Bring to the Session
The most important thing to bring? Your baby — just as they are.
But here are a few helpful extras:
A few spare nappies and wipes
Extra milk (bottle or breastfed — either is welcome!)
A dummy or comforter (if they use one)
A change of clothes for baby and parents (just in case!)
I provide wraps, headbands, neutral-toned outfits, and soft textured blankets — so you don’t need to bring anything fancy.
Feeding Before the Session
A well-fed baby = a sleepy, snuggly baby. Try to feed just before your session or as soon as you arrive at the studio in Lydney. Don’t stress if your baby needs to stop for a feed part-way through — we follow their lead completely.
Dressing Baby for Arrival
Dress baby in something simple and easy to remove — like a loose onesie or zip-up sleeper. Avoid anything that goes over the head or leaves marks on their skin. We’ll often start with swaddled, timeless setups where your little one is most comfy.
Take the Pressure Off
Newborns are unpredictable — and that’s totally okay. Some sleep soundly the whole time, others feed frequently, need cuddles, or just want a moment to be held.
My sessions are fully baby-led, with no time pressure. I allow plenty of time for settling, feeding, changing, and soothing. As a new parent, all you need to do is relax and enjoy the moment — I’ll take care of the rest.
Why Local Matters: Less Stress, More Comfort
My cosy studio in Lydney, right on the edge of the Forest of Dean, is designed to feel calm, warm, and welcoming. It’s easy to get to from Chepstow, Coleford, and other Gloucestershire towns — no long car journeys, no parking headaches, just a peaceful environment for you and your baby.
Bonus Tip: Parents Are Welcome in the Photos Too!
You don’t have to be “photo-ready.” These are about connection, not perfection. If you'd like to step into the frame, I’ll gently guide you through some natural, meaningful poses. Most parents are so glad they said yes.
My goal is simple: to make sure your newborn photoshoot feels like a calm, beautiful experience — not another thing on your to-do list.
Whether you’re in Lydney, the Forest of Dean, or elsewhere in Gloucestershire, I’d love to welcome you and your little one into the studio and help tell the very beginning of their story.
👉 Click here to book your session