How to Prepare for Your Newborn Photography Session

Sleeping newborn baby wrapped in soft fabric during a studio session in Innerleithen by EnaMay Photography

Tips from a Scottish Borders and Edinburgh Photographer

Bringing your baby in for their first photographs is such a special milestone. But I know it can feel like one more thing to plan when you're already adjusting to life with a newborn.

As a newborn photographer based in Innerleithen, I work with families across the Scottish Borders and Edinburgh to create calm, natural, and meaningful photographs. Whether you come to my garden studio or choose an in-home session, here's everything you need to know to help the day go smoothly.

Joyful pregnant woman in natural beige tones during a relaxed maternity photography session in Edinburgh by EnaMay Photography — Book while you’re still pregnant (if you can)
The best time for newborn photography is within the first two weeks after birth. Babies are still sleepy, naturally curled, and more settled. If you can, get in touch while you're still pregnant to pencil in your due date. We’ll firm up a date once your baby arrives.
Don’t worry if your baby is already here – I’ll always do my best to fit you in.

Please have a few things in mind on the morning of the shoot

Keep baby awake a little longer in the morning.
If you can gently keep your baby awake for longer stretches before your session, they’ll be ready for a deep sleep once they arrive. It might feel like a bit of a task, but it really does help.

Give a good feed before you leave.
Feeding your baby around one hour before you leave should help them arrive settled and content. If you’re able to bring a bottle of expressed milk or formula too, that can really help speed up the process. Some babies love to snack, which means we might pause and restart multiple times for feeds. A bottle lets us know they’ve had plenty, which usually leads to a solid 90-minute snooze.

Consider bringing a dummy.
If your baby is unsettled, I might suggest using a dummy to help them settle between poses. It doesn’t mean you need to use one long-term, but it can make a real difference during the session. If you have one, please bring it with you.

Let me take the lead.
Mums, your scent is powerful – especially to your baby. When you’re nearby, bubba often thinks it’s feeding time. I ask that you sit back and relax on the chair provided, which helps your baby settle more easily in my arms.

What to bring (and what not to stress about)

A spare top for yourself, just in case. Feel free to bring your clothes with you to change into.
Any special item you’d love included (a blanket, teddy or heirloom)
Snacks or toys for older siblings
Please make sure chipped nail polish is removed and hands are clean (especially if your partner is a grafter)

And lastly – please don’t worry about accidents. I am fully prepared to change nappies and clean up pee and poo. Honestly, it’s part of the job when capturing babies without a nappy, and almost expected!

Father holding newborn baby wrapped in soft white blanket during a natural newborn photography session in the Scottish Borders by EnaMay Photography — What to wear
Go for soft, neutral colours with no bold logos or patterns. Simple, relaxed clothing works best for both parents and siblings. If you’re not sure, feel free to bring a couple of options and we’ll decide on the day.

Trust the process

You don’t need to have it all together. I’m here to hold space for you – whether you’ve had a great morning or left the house in a whirlwind. My job is to create a calm, baby-led environment where you can just be. Everything else will flow from there.

Ready to book?

If you’re based in the Scottish Borders or Edinburgh and looking for a newborn photographer who will take care of you from the moment you walk through the door, I’d love to hear from you.

get in touch