What to Bring to Your Newborn Session
Preparing for your newborn photoshoot can feel a little overwhelming, especially during those early days with a new baby.
The good news is , you really don’t need to bring much at all.
As an Auckland newborn photographer, my sessions are designed to be calm, fully guided, and as stress-free as possible. Whether your session is in my studio or in your home, most of the preparation is already taken care of for you.
Here’s a simple guide to what to bring to your newborn photoshoot in Auckland.
Extra milk or feeding supplies
A settled baby is usually a sleepy baby, so feeding plays an important role during newborn sessions.
If bottle feeding, bring:
extra bottles
extra milk or formula
anything your baby may need for comfort
If breastfeeding, there’s absolutely no pressure — newborn sessions are baby-led, with plenty of time allowed for feeding.
A dummy or pacifier (if baby uses one)
Even if your baby doesn’t use a dummy often, bringing one along can sometimes help gently settle baby between poses.
Not every baby needs one, but it can be helpful to have available just in case.
Nappies and wipes
It’s always a good idea to bring:
extra nappies
wipes
spare clothing for baby
Newborn sessions are relaxed and flexible, so there’s no stress if baby needs changing multiple times.
Simple outfits for family photos
If parents or siblings are included in your session, soft neutral tones photograph beautifully.
Think:
whites
creams
soft earthy tones
Avoid:
logos
bright colours
busy patterns
Keeping outfits simple helps create a timeless look while keeping the focus on your connection as a family.
A change of clothes for parents (optional)
Babies are unpredictable — accidents happen.
Many parents feel more comfortable bringing a spare top or outfit just in case of milk spills or little accidents during the session.
What you DON’T need to bring
One of the biggest questions parents ask is whether they need to bring props or wraps.
The answer is usually no.
For studio sessions, I provide:
wraps
blankets
props
posing aids
styling setups
For in-home sessions, I also bring carefully selected items to create a soft, timeless look while keeping the experience relaxed and natural.
The most important thing to bring? Patience.
Newborn sessions are never rushed.
Your baby leads the session, which means there is always time for:
feeding
settling
breaks whenever needed
The goal is to create a calm and enjoyable experience for both baby and parents.
When should newborn photos be taken?
Newborn photos are ideally taken within the first 7–21 days, when babies are still sleepy and naturally curled.
Booking during pregnancy is recommended to ensure availability around your due date.
Looking for newborn photography in Auckland?
I specialise in calm, baby-led newborn photography for families across Auckland, including South Auckland, Papakura, Takanini, Pukekohe, Manukau, and surrounding areas.
You can learn more about my newborn sessions here:
You may also find these blogs helpful:
Ready to secure your newborn session?
Newborn sessions are limited each month to ensure every family receives the time and care they deserve.
