Newborn Photo Session Checklist | First Things First After Hospital

We get this WhatsApp message every day: "What should I bring to the photoshoot? Do I need outfits? Should I prepare props?"

Our answer is always the same: "Just bring your baby and their milk. We handle everything else."

But we understand—as new parents, you want to be prepared for everything. So here's a detailed, step-by-step checklist from booking to receiving your photos.

📋 1-2 Months Before: Booking

Before a newborn session, comfort, feeding, and calm matter more than bringing many items.

• ✅ WhatsApp us (62043694) to reserve your slot before baby arrives
• ✅ Choose your package (LITE $2,660 / STANDARD $3,560 / PREMIUM $6,560)
• ✅ If you'd prefer a home session, let us know early (+$1,000 + transport)
• ✅ Once baby is born, message us immediately—we'll schedule within 5-14 days

📋 The Day Before: Preparation

Wraps, diapers, milk, and comfort items make the session flow much more smoothly.

• ✅ Bathe baby (skip the lotion afterward—it can affect how wraps feel on skin)
• ✅ Trim nails (baby nails are surprisingly sharp and can scratch their own face)
• ✅ Prepare enough milk (breastfeeding moms: we have a private nursing area)
• ✅ Pack 2-3 extra diapers (we have backups, but familiar brands are more comfortable)
• ✅ Bring one meaningful item (optional): grandpa's watch, mom's wedding veil, big sibling's teddy bear—these add personal story to the photos

📋 Shoot Day: Getting There

• ✅ Feed baby 1 hour before departure (full tummy = better sleep)
• ✅ Keep baby awake before leaving (so they fall asleep at the studio—this is key!)
• ✅ Keep the drive under 30 minutes if possible (long rides may use up baby's sleep quota)
• ✅ Parents: wear comfortable clothes—for parent-baby shots, light/neutral tops work best
• ✅ Arrive 10 minutes early so baby can acclimate to the new environment

📋 During the Session: Just Relax

• ✅ You don't need to do anything—leave it to Natalie and the photographer
• ✅ Baby crying? Totally normal! We know how to soothe them
• ✅ Baby needs to feed? Anytime! No time pressure at all
• ✅ Diaper blowout? We've seen it all. Change and continue (our record: 5 changes in one session 😂)
• ✅ Want parent-baby photos? Just follow the photographer's gentle guidance

📋 After the Session: Receiving Photos

• ✅ Within 2 weeks: Receive all color-corrected digital files (full delivery)
• ✅ Retouched photos: 2-3 weeks after selection
• ✅ Delivered via Google Drive / WeTransfer
• ✅ Want printed albums or canvas? We have add-on options

❌ Things You Don't Need to Worry About

• ❌ "Will baby get cold?" — Studio is maintained at 25-27°C
• ❌ "What if baby cries the whole time?" — We're experienced soothers, plus our satisfaction guarantee means a free reschedule if needed
• ❌ "Do I need makeup?" — Baby doesn't! Mom's makeup is an optional add-on (+$700)
• ❌ "I can't carry much stuff" — We provide everything. Just bring baby

❓ FAQ

Q: What's the difference between home and studio sessions?
A: Home sessions mean no travel for baby, but lighting, props, and temperature control are limited. Studio sessions offer more variety and safety features. See our detailed comparison.

Q: Can grandparents join? Is there an extra charge?
A: Additional family members are +$200 each. We recommend the STANDARD or PREMIUM package for more comfortable timing.

Q: How long does a session take?
A: LITE is about 1.5 hours, STANDARD about 2 hours, PREMIUM about 3 hours—including feeding, diaper changes, and soothing time.

📖 Related Reading

• 📸 Newborn Photography Safety: 6 Hygiene Standards
• 📸 Why 5-20 Days Is the Golden Window
• 📸 Home vs Studio Newborn Photography: Which Is Right for You?