Who's really in charge at newborn photos?
Follow along at a newborn photo session in new prague, mn
When you picture a newborn photo session, you might assume I—the photographer—am running the show. Or maybe you think it’s the parents, coordinating outfits and keeping everyone in line.
But truthfully? When it comes to newborn photos, the ones in charge are almost always the kids.
This recent newborn photo session in New Prague was a perfect example. Keep reading for an in-depth look on how important it is to have a newborn photographer who can go with the flow (especially when unpredictable toddler and pre-k-aged older siblings are involved).
Starting with baby: why a warm house is everything when it comes to newborn photos
First thing's first—a huge shoutout to this family for keeping their home toasty warm on this 80-degree September day. Honestly 100% of my smoothest newborn photo sessions have been ones where the house is a little uncomfortably warm. Babies are used to living in their own little 98.6-degree incubators, so it really helps move things along when things are nice and warm for Baby (and maybe a little uncomfortable for everyone else.) This little guy did phenomenal because his parents nailed it—one of the smoothest sessions I’ve ever had.
Pro tip for parents: if you want your newborn photo session to flow as smoothly as possible, keep things on the warmer side. You might sweat a little, but your baby will thank you (which means you will thank yourself for a shorter and lower-stress newborn photo session).
why the kids call the shots at newborn photos
I say it at every session, and I mean it: the kids are in charge.
For newborns, that means if Baby needs a feeding break, we pause. If Baby only wants cuddles, we capture those cuddles. If Baby is wide awake and curious, I’ll photograph those big-eyed stares and baby-led movements (side note: this is my absolute favorite part of newborn photos!).
With siblings, it looks a little different. Some older siblings dive right in — they want to hold Baby, be in every photo, and sometimes “direct” a few shots themselves. Other times, like at this newborn photo session in New Prague, siblings are a little more reserved.
And that’s perfectly fine.
My kid-led approach to photographing your family is intended to empower your kiddos and help them feel at ease.
newborn photos with reserved/shy older siblings
Big brother at this newborn photo session was incredibly sweet - and, a little hesitant to get involved. He wasn’t all that interested in hopping into photos at first, so instead of forcing anything, we started with Baby on his own.
We moved through photos of Baby with mom, with Dad, and then with both parents together. Usually, by this point, siblings see all the fun happening and decide to join in. This time? Not so much. And you know what? That was totally okay.
Instead of pressuring, I shifted gears. I asked Big Bro if he could show me how he’s been learning to hold his little brother. That worked for a few sweet moments—until baby decided it was time for a diaper change. Perfect timing, no? (But, alas, I'd expect nothing less.)
So, we used that opportunity to capture Big Brother on his own. Mom had requested a few three-year portraits of him anyway, so we played some games, laughed together, and caught it all on camera. We played guessing games, laughed about silly nonsensical questions, and let him snuggle mom for a few shots. When his pup wandered over, he instantly perked up at having his best buddy join in on the fun.
By the time we circled back to Baby Brother, Big Bro was much more relaxed. We turned family photos into more playful games—guessing what baby’s hair smelled like, pretending to be surprised about the “wrong” color of his outfit, and turning it into a lighthearted experience.
when siblings are involved at newborn photos: why play always wins
Here's the cold, hard truth: kids don’t care about what the adults want in a photo session. They care about being seen, being heard, and having fun. That’s why my entire approach to newborn photos revolves around giving kids the reins.
Instead of “stand here, smile now,” my photographic approach involves guiding siblings into play, silliness, and curiosity. Sometimes that means letting them step out and rejoin when they’re ready. Sometimes it means handing them little jobs—like holding a reflector or being my "assistant". And, sometimes, it just means slowing down and letting them be shy for a bit.
Either way, kids are the ones who steer the session, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
the takeaway: at newborn photos, kids run the show
This New Prague newborn photo session illustrates it all.
So, who’s really in charge of a newborn photo session? Not me. Not the parents. Not even the dog (though Pepper did try). It’s always the kids.
And when you trust them to lead — whether that means taking breaks, turning it into a game, or simply giving them space — you end up with photos that feel authentic, full of connection, and true to your family’s unique energy.
If you’re looking for New-Prague-area newborn photos that reflect your real life (instead of stiff poses and forced smiles) you’re in the right place. I’d love to help you document your family’s story, exactly as it unfolds. Send me a message to get started!
