Newborn Session Guide
Thank you for choosing Anuschka Photography for your newborn photo session. You may be wondering what to expect and how to prepare for your session so I have a few tips and tricks for you.
The most important thing is that you don’t stress during this process. We know new motherhood can be an exhausting time, so don’t worry, my guide is designed to help.

NEWBORN'S SLEEP MANAGEMENT
If you want adorable, sleepy newborn photos where the baby is all curled up in those cute poses, it‘s best if baby awake 30 minutes prior to their sessions so when you arrive they can be rocked or fed to sleep. Remember, we are not in a hurry. Newborn sessions can last up to three hours. We keep the studio to a warm room temperature so that your baby can feel comfortable in little to no clothing. Please keep distraction/noises to a minimum during the session. Silence phones and only bring family members/people who will be in the shoot with you. Space is limited and we need a still, quiet and relaxed environment for a successful shoot.
FEEDING
A well fed baby is a happy baby. Please feed and burp baby right before our session. This will ensure a nice sleepy “milk drunk” babe. We are also happy to take as many breaks as baby needs if he/she gets hungry or needs a cuddle during our shoot.
NEWBORN SHOOT CHECK LIST
(If newborn photographed only)
- Please bring everything for changing and feeding the baby, including any special creams, diapers and products you use.
- If not breast feeding, please bring baby’s food.
- If the newborn has hair, please bring a brush.
- Please bring any toys or props you would like to add into the photos.
- If the baby is using the pacifier, please bring that as well. It often helps soothe babies into the poses and facilitates getting them to sleep. If your baby is not used to a pacifier or you do not feel comfortable offering one, do not worry, it is not a must.
- Another important advice is to loosen baby’s clothing and diapers at least half an hour before the session. This will give time for any imprint marks and redness to disappear, and the baby’s skin will look flawless.
- Please bring a snack and water for yourself. The photo shoot might be a bit longer.
IF SIBLINGS AND / OR PARENTS INCLUDED IN SHOOT
As a general guide, I recommend:
SIBLINGS
- Bring entertainment for the siblings. Clean easy snacks and drinks and any other essentials they may need.
- It can be helpful to plan for siblings to attend only for their portion and arrange for them to leave following after. This can ensure you have a relaxed experience and baby stays asleep through it’s portrait portion.
If you bring younger siblings, please bring someone who is able to watch them all the time in the studio.
WARDROBE & STYLING
COLOURS
- Stick to the same TONES, but don’t overly match.
- Neutral colours are always good – use 3-4 neutral colours as your base, then everyone can use these to coordinate their outfits (see matching colour examples HERE)
- Primary colours or versions of them, tend to work well (e.g. yellow/mustard, red/maroon, blue/navy/royal)
- With newborn shoots, stick to simple colours (grey, white, soft blues and pinks, cream, light brown) and simple clothing.
What NOT to wear
- Avoid wearing thin, closely spaced stripes or other small patterns, as they can create a ‘moire’ effect in photographs.
- Avoid plaid or buffalo patterns, particularly in high-contrast colours, they can appear strange in images.
- Avoid large logos, cartoon designs, or text on clothing – its distracting, unless you’re deliberately aiming for it.
- Avoid wearing excessive dark colours, which can render photos lifeless; black should normally be limited to pants.
- Avoid neon colours as they can cast unflattering hues on the skin, so it’s best to skip them.
SHOPPING
In case your are thinking of buying a new outfits dress/cloths to wear for your maternity shoot, here are some ideas were to look at. Some Online Shops are from Overseas, just double check, delivery time and postage cost might vary from shops here in Australia:
Online Shops International
HAIR
FOR HER
Choosing a hairstyle for your photo shoot is a wonderful way to honor and showcase yourself.
It’s a great idea to consider having your hair styled by a professional. However, if you prefer to do it yourself, make sure to practice beforehand. There are plenty of helpful tutorial videos available online that can guide you in creating a stunning look for your special day.
Some hairstyles that complement shoots beautifully include:
**Soft Curls**
Soft curls radiate a timeless elegance, making them an excellent choice for maternity photoshoots. This hairstyle introduces a hint of romance to your look, framing your face with gentle, flowing waves. Soft waves suit all hair lengths and pair beautifully with a variety of outfits, from breezy dresses to fitted maternity gowns.
**Romantic Updo**
For a more refined and sophisticated look, consider opting for a romantic updo. This hairstyle can vary from a loose, tousled bun to a detailed braided design. An updo not only highlights your face but also conveys a sense of elegance and poise. It’s an ideal choice for showcasing earrings or accentuating a delicate neckline.
**Half-Up, Half-Down**
The half-up, half-down hairstyle strikes a perfect balance between sophistication and casual charm. This style is particularly flattering, as it keeps hair away from the face while allowing soft strands to frame it beautifully. You can enhance the cascading section with loose curls or waves for an effortlessly feminine touch.
**Natural and Flowing**
Embrace your natural texture by letting your hair flow freely for a relaxed and genuine look. Whether your hair is curly, wavy, or straight, allowing it to fall naturally creates a beautifully candid and effortless appearance.
**High-Fashion Hair Cut**
The right High-Fashion haircut can transform a look completely, embodying the essence of creativity and boldness. Whether you aim for boldness, softness, or vintage glamour, each cut speaks volumes about the aesthetic you’re aiming to portray.
**Loose braids or twists**
Loose braids or twists elegantly frame your face while adding lovely texture. Bohemian styles, like fishtail or waterfall braids, offer a trendy yet relaxed feel, keeping your hair stylishly in place.
FOR HIM
On the day of the shoot, ensure your hair is clean and styled neatly. If you’re considering a haircut, book it a few days in advance so your hair can settle and appear natural.
Come freshly shaved. For anyone with facial hair, make sure your beard or mustache is well-groomed and trimmed for a polished look.
MAKEUP
FOR HER
Makeup will add a huge amount of self-love to the experience and plays a crucial role in enhancing your photography experience. It not only complements your natural beauty but also interacts beautifully with lighting and angles, ensuring you look radiant in every frame.
A professional makeup artist can be an excellent choice if you want to indulge and feel pampered before your session. After all, a photoshoot is an opportunity to relax, unwind, and embrace your beauty.
Whether you decide to hire a professional makeup artist or take the DIY route, there are effective strategies to achieve a stunning, camera-ready look.
DIY Makeup Tips for a Flawless Look:
- Begin with skin preparation, as well-hydrated skin serves as the foundation for a flawless makeup application. Use a quality moisturizer and primer to create a smooth base that lasts.
- Opt for a lightweight foundation that offers medium coverage and matches your skin tone seamlessly. Heavy foundations can appear cakey under bright lights, so aim for a natural finish that enhances your complexion.
- For your eyes, choose soft, neutral shades instead of bold, dark colours. Define your lashes with mascara or apply natural-looking false lashes for extra pop without overpowering your look.
- Finally, select a long-lasting lip colour in nude or soft tone which complements most maternity outfits and keeps the focus on you.
!!! Remember that the goal is to feel comfortable and confident in your skin, so choose makeup that reflects your personal style while ensuring you look radiant in your photos.
It’s always beneficial to do a trial run for makeup and hair to ensure everything looks perfect on the big day. 🙂
HANDS AND FEET
FOR EVERYONE
This is for all included in the photo shoot. Most of the time, hands and sometimes feet end up being seen on your photos, so feel free to treat everyone with a mani-pedi before getting your photos taken.
DRINK AND SNACK
Bring a snack and water for everyone. The photo shoot might be a bit longer. Just make sure, that your teeth are clean and no food rests are stuck between your teeth after eating.
NEWBORN / FAMILY PHOTO SHOOT CHECKLIST
Additional to the Newborn Check list please also consider:
- Please bring a snack and water for yourself and siblings. The photo shoot might be a bit longer. Just make sure, that your teeth are clean and no food rests are stuck between your teeth after eating.
- Please bring entertainment for the siblings. With younger siblings it might be good to arrange a pick up.
- Please bring at least one change of clothing for everyone, just in case any accidents happen.
- Please for everyone have hair/beard and make up well groomed.
- Please have well groomed fingernails & toenails (in case you will be barefoot).