What to Bring to Your Newborn Photo Session | Sydney Newborn Photographer

What to Bring to Your Newborn Photo Session (Hint: Not Much!)

If you’re preparing for your newborn photo session, you might be wondering:“What do we actually need to bring?”

It’s a very common question — especially when you’re navigating life with a brand-new baby and everything feels a little overwhelming. The good news is that you don’t need to pack much at all.

My Balmain studio is set up specifically for newborn photography, with your baby’s comfort and safety as the top priority. Everything is designed to keep the session calm, gentle, and relaxed — for both baby and parents.

Here’s exactly what to bring to your newborn photo session, along with a few reassuring tips to help you feel prepared and at ease.

What I Already Provide in the Studio

My newborn photography studio is fully equipped with almost everything your baby will need, including:

• A curated collection of wraps, fabrics, and newborn outfits

• Baskets, props, and beanbags designed for newborn safety

• Heater and air conditioning to keep your baby comfortable and settled

• White noise and gentle settling techniques

• Plenty of time — newborn sessions are never rushed (I allow about 3 hours so plenty of time for feeding and settling should your baby need it)

  
  

You don’t need to bring props or outfits unless there’s something special you’d like included.

Bringing Something Meaningful (Optional)

If you have a sentimental item you’d love your baby photographed with, you’re very welcome to bring it along.

Over the years, families have brought:

• Heirloom antique watches

• Hand-knitted blankets made by grandparents

• Stuffed toys from a parent’s own childhood

  
  

These personal items can add a beautiful storytelling element to your newborn photos. If it’s meaningful to you, I’ll always do my best to incorporate it safely and thoughtfully.

This baby's clever grandmother crocheted this baby blanket with love, so we just had to include it in her newborn photos. Be sure to bring along anything special you'd like photographed with your baby. © Amy Tong Photography

What to Bring for Baby

✔️ Milk

Whether you’re breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or combination feeding, a well-fed baby is a happy baby.

During a newborn photo session, babies are gently repositioned more than they might be during a normal sleep at home. Because of this, they may stir a little more than usual. And as every newborn parent knows, when a baby is awake, they want food!

If you’re bottle-feeding or combination feeding, it’s wise to bring more milk than you’d normally need for the same amount of time. Extra feeds are completely normal, and there’s always plenty of time built into the session for feeding and settling.

✔️ Dummy

Even if your baby doesn’t regularly use a dummy, it can be helpful for settling between poses. I encourage parents to bring one along just in case their baby is a little fussy and isn't responding to other settling techniques. I use them sparingly and strategically remove them just before taking the shot.

✔️ Nappies and wipes

I keep a couple of spare nappies on hand for emergencies, but it’s best to bring your own so you have exactly what your baby is used to.

That’s really all your baby needs.

What to Bring for Parents

✔️ Neutral, comfortable clothing

Parent photos are always included during newborn sessions, so wearing soft, neutral tones helps create timeless images that don’t distract from your baby.

Think:

• Cream

• Beige

• Soft grey

• Muted, earthy tones

• Soft pastel tones

Avoid bold patterns, logos, or bright colours (especially red) if possible.

✔️ A relaxed mindset

This is the most important thing to bring.

Newborn sessions are calm, flexible, and baby-led. Feeding, cuddles, breaks, and the occasional unsettled moment are all completely normal — and expected.

There’s no pressure and no rush. There's no need to worry that your baby won't do what they need to do. After nearly 14 years in this job I've seen it all! I have lots of tricks up my sleeve so there's no need to worry.

Final Reassurance

Newborn photography isn’t about perfection or performance.

It’s about gently capturing a fleeting stage — tiny fingers, soft expressions, and the quiet connection between you and your baby.

My role is to take care of the details, guide the session, and create a calm environment where beautiful images can unfold naturally.

So pack light, bring anything meaningful if you wish, and trust that you and your baby are in safe, experienced hands.

If you have any questions before your newborn photo session, you’re always welcome to get in touch — I’m here to make the experience as relaxed and enjoyable as possible. 💛

Best wishes!

Amy xx

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