Picture this: it’s your first time leaving the house as a brand-new family. You’ve managed to get the diaper bag packed, the baby dressed (twice), and everyone buckled in. As you pull into my studio parking lot, your mind is spinning with questions. Will the baby cry the whole time? What are we even supposed to do? Is this going to feel stressful?
If that’s where you’re at, take a deep breath. RELAX AND BREATHE. You’re doing beautifully. And more importantly, you don’t have to do this alone.
At Christy Johnson Photography, part of my job is holding space for you in this sacred season. I’m a mom, too, so I know those early days are equal parts magic and mayhem. When you walk into my studio for your newborn or family photo session, I want you to feel like you’re entering a cozy second home – one that’s prepared and calm, where it’s okay to exhale.
Whether you’re coming in for maternity or newborn photos in Raleigh or Wake Forest, or bringing your baby and toddler for a family session, this guide will walk you through how to prepare for your newborn photo session and feel confident every step of the way.
Trusting the Journey (And Letting Go a Little)
A lot of parents show up feeling like they have to do everything perfectly. Plan all the outfits, get everyone fed and happy, somehow arrive on time, and smile joyfully throughout. Whew. That’s a LOT.
Here’s the truth: this is one of the few times when you get to hand the mental load to someone else – me. I’m here to take care of everything you’re worried about, including the things you didn’t even know to stress over.
Let me share a little story. I recently had a sweet couple walk into the studio with their tiny newborn. You could see the nerves on their faces (“Did we forget anything? Will the baby cry the whole time?”) But within a few minutes, the energy shifted. Feet were up, coffee was in hand. Baby snuggled in a wrap. Nothing felt rushed.
That’s the experience I want every family to have. Here’s how we make that happen together.
Step-by-Step: How to Feel Confident and Prepared for Your Newborn Session
1. Choose Comfort Over Perfection
When I say there’s no pressure to look “picture-perfect,” I truly mean it. The best images come from relaxed moments of connection, not rigid poses or matching outfits.
Here’s what I provide to make styling super simple:
- A curated client wardrobe with soft, flattering outfits for postpartum bodies
- Guidance on neutral, cozy clothing that photographs beautifully
- Optional outfit planning consults or try-ons before the session
If you’re bringing toddlers, dress them in comfortable clothing they can move and play in – because yes, we’re going to let them play!
2. Let Me Guide You
Feeling uncertain about how to hold the baby? Wondering what to do with your arms, your smile, your face? That’s totally normal – and that’s where I come in.
I’ll gently guide you the entire time:
- Showing you how to settle in and soften your posture
- Giving playful cues that draw out natural emotion
- Positioning you in beautiful, light-filled spots that flatter everyone
I’ve worked with hundreds of families (and I’m a former preschool teacher), so babies and toddlers are my people. In fact, I often joke that I communicate better with toddlers than I do with grown adults. You don’t need to perform or pretend. Just trust me.
3. Accept the Chaos (and Know It’ll Still Be Beautiful)
If your toddler is climbing on the couch or your baby decides to fuss, please don’t panic. We truly only need a few tiny moments to capture magic.
Some things I always tell nervous parents:
- Little ones cooperate best when they feel free to play, not pressured to perform
- I’m incredibly patient – mess, noise, and unpredictability don’t rattle me
- Imperfect moments make for the most heartfelt images
The goal isn’t a photo of everyone stiffly smiling at the camera. It’s capturing how your partner softly strokes your baby’s head, the way your toddler holds your finger, the look of love exchanged in a quiet glance.
4. Pack Light, or Don’t Pack at All
I keep the studio equipped with all the little things you might need:
- Diapers and wipes
- Neutral, cozy swaddles
- Snacks, drinks, and extra burp cloths
- A peaceful lounge area to feed or soothe your baby
You don’t need to haul the whole nursery bag here. Just bring yourselves.
5. Give Yourself Permission to Be Seen
This one is big. So many new moms hesitate to be photographed postpartum. But I want to encourage you: your love, your strength, your connection – that’s what I’m capturing.
You don’t need to “bounce back” or hide behind the baby. You ARE beautiful now, just as you are. And you’ll never regret having these memories preserved.
Why This Matters (More Than You Know)
There’s something deeply powerful about giving yourself the space to slow down and be truly present with your growing family. A photo session isn’t just about the photos. It’s a pause, a celebration, a gift for your future self.
And I don’t take that lightly. Every time I hear a mom whisper “Oh my gosh, this is us” when she sees her images, it reminds me why I do this work. You deserve to be seen. You deserve legacy-worthy images that reflect how much you’re holding, building, and becoming through this season.
Ready to Feel Held and Guided?
If you’re an expecting or new parent in Raleigh, Wake Forest, or anywhere in the Triangle, and you’re looking for a calm, nurturing photographer who will take the lead and take the pressure off, I’d love to meet you. Helping you know how to prepare for your newborn photo session is just one part of what I can do for you.
Let’s create something beautiful together. You can inquire here or explore more about newborn and family photography sessions.
And remember – you’re already doing an incredible job. You’ve made it here. I’ll take it from here.
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