How to Prepare for Your Newborn Photo Session in San Jose
Ozlem Bal Herdem
Welcoming a new baby into your family is one of life's most precious milestones—and capturing those first days through newborn photography is something you'll treasure forever. As a San Jose-based newborn photographer, I know how important it is to make your session relaxed, safe, and beautiful. Here's everything you need to know to prepare for your newborn photo session so you can enjoy the experience stress-free!
1. Schedule Early
I recommend booking your newborn session during your second trimester to secure your spot. We’ll pencil in your due date, and once your little one arrives (early or late!), we’ll schedule the exact session date. Newborns are ideally photographed between 7–20 days after birth when they are still sleepy and curly.
2. Keep Baby Comfortable
A warm, cozy baby is a happy baby! Before your session, keep the baby’s diaper a little loose to avoid red marks and dress them in easy-to-remove clothing (like a simple zip-up sleeper). Feeding your baby right before the session helps them settle into a nice, sleepy state.
3. What to Bring
Extra bottles (if bottle-feeding)
Pacifiers (even if they don't usually take one)
A few extra diapers and wipes
A cozy swaddle blanket
Any sentimental items you'd like included (special blanket, heirloom toy)
4. What Parents and Siblings Should Wear
Stick to soft, neutral tones: white, cream, beige, soft pastels.
Avoid busy patterns or logos.
Moms often look beautiful in flowy dresses or simple knits (I offer a client closet too!).
Dads look great in neutral t-shirts, henleys, or casual button-downs.
Keep it simple and timeless—the focus should stay on your family's connection.
5. Relax and Trust the Process
Newborn sessions are very different from traditional portrait sessions. They move slowly to accommodate feeding, cuddling, and soothing. I have years of experience working with little ones, and I'll gently pose and guide everything so you can simply enjoy the experience.
6. In-Studio Comfort
At Twin Dragonflies Photography Studio in West San Jose, everything is set up to be warm, safe, and welcoming. I provide all the props, wraps, bonnets, and backgrounds needed for your baby's session, and you’ll have plenty of time to sit back, relax, and enjoy the session while I work my magic.
Ready to capture these fleeting, precious moments? Let’s create beautiful images of your newest little love—photos that you'll cherish for a lifetime.
Book your San Jose newborn session today!
Contact me here or view my Newborn Portfolio for inspiration.