How to prepare siblings for a newborn photo session
FIVE TIPS TO PREPARE SIBLINGS FOR A NEWBORN PHOTO SESSION
You want to capture this special time in photos but do you worry about how the older siblings will do during a newborn photo session?
It’s understandable as there has been a big change in your home.
Before we dig in, I just have to say how meaningful a session like this can be. I know it can feel like a big undertaking since you just had a baby, but in my opinion it’s so worth the effort.
— Tip number one —
Prepare the kids ahead of time.
Talk about the session before I get there.
Tell them that a really nice photographer named Kathleen :) will be coming to our house to take fun picture of our family. Tell them that they can show me their room and their favorite toys. Sometimes taking the focus off of the baby is a great place to start.
Don’t over think this, But oftentimes having a few special toys around or a favorite book can be a great addition. Having a non messy snack on hand can help as well.
It will help them forget about the camera and natural interaction shots are always really sweet.
— Tip number two —
Go with the flow. I can’t emphasize this piece of advice more.
I know it’s easy to have a plan in your mind as to how the shoot will go, but when we are dealing with older children at a newborn session, it’s better to embrace what comes. Encouragement over discipline works best in any photo shoot and especially in this situation.
I know how to run a session, how to engage the kids and how to keep it moving and light. If you go into the session with a carefree attitude your kids will sense it and it will be best for everyone.
Embrace what comes and I promise we’ll get some authentic loving family moments.
Don’t expect them to be perfect, don’t push, just let it unfold and I promise it will all work out.
How to engage kids during a newborn session.
— Tip number three —
This is where we can make them feel involved and let the focus fall on them.
I will give them things to do. Depending on the age will determine what that might be. Maybe it’s hold the baby, or simple hold the baby’s fingers. If the child isn’t into that I might ask them to tickle dad or even jump on the bed. It’s all about having the older ones engaged and happy.
Keeping the session fun for the little ones ensures that we’ll get those loving connected shots that you want.
So jump in there and have fun with your kids.
How to keep the siblings happy during a newborn session.
— Tip number four —
Take a break. If you can sense that your child is losing interest, change it up. Go get a snack or go play in another room.
This is a great opportunity for us to grab those alone shots with just mom or dad and the baby.
That is a beautiful part about an in-home session. Everthing you might need is right there.
How to make sure the siblings are comfortable for a newborn photo session.
— Tip number five —
Dress for comfort. This might seem like a simple or overlooked thing.
But remember, casual and cozy clothes can add to the comfort level for your kids. Choosing clothes that allow them to move about is key. They are less likely to be cranky if they aren’t in stiff or scratchy clothing. Barefeet or socks are best as we’ll be on the bed or couch.
How to have a great newborn session with the siblings recap:
Prepare them ahead of time. Let them know what to expect.
GO with the flow. Let go of perfection.
