How to Prep for Your Newborn Session at Aspen Trails Photography

Bringing your baby in for their first photo session is such an exciting moment — and at Aspen Trails Photography, we’re here to make the experience as relaxing and beautiful as possible. To help you feel confident and prepared, here’s everything you need to know before your newborn session.

When to Schedule

Newborn sessions are best done when your baby is between 5–14 days old. During this time, babies are still very sleepy, snuggly, and comfortable in curled-up poses. We recommend booking during your second trimester to ensure availability around your due date.

Newborn baby wrapped in soft white knit blanket with tan bow sleeping peacefully.

What to Bring

We provide all the wraps, outfits, props, and backdrops — you don’t need to worry about a thing! That said, here are a few essentials to pack:

  • Extra diapers and wipes
  • A pacifier (even if baby doesn’t usually use one — it can help soothe between shots)
  • A bottle or two if you’re bottle-feeding (or be prepared to nurse as needed)
  • A cozy blanket for in-between poses
  • Snacks or water for yourself — our sessions can take 2–3 hours


Keeping Baby Sleepy

Sleepy babies = dreamy photos. Here are some tips to encourage a peaceful, sleepy baby during the session:

  • Keep baby awake for an hour or two before your appointment (a bath or some tummy time can help)
  • Feed baby right before arriving or once you arrive at the studio
  • Dress baby in something easy to remove (like a zip-up sleeper) — we’ll take it off once they’re settled

Don’t stress if baby is wide awake — we work on their schedule, and we always build in time for soothing and feeding.

Sleeping baby swaddled in white wrap with tan bow headband on cream shag rug.
Close up view of a peaceful sleeping baby with soft focus in natural lighting.
Adorable sleeping newborn baby wearing warm knit clothing and accessories in soft neutral tones.

What to Wear

If you'll be in the photos too (and we highly recommend it!), choose soft, neutral clothing. Think creams, light grays, or soft pastels. These colors keep the focus on your baby and work beautifully with our timeless style. Avoid bold patterns, logos, or bright colors that may distract from the simplicity of your images.


I also have a client closet for mama with flattering, neutral, natural dresses that I welcome you to! Check out my Client Closet here

Baby in white outfit crawls on floor with blue and white balloon decorations in bright modern room.
A baby surrounded by blue and white balloons sits on a wooden chair during a special occasion.

What to Expect at the Studio

Our studio is warm, clean, and calm — designed specifically for newborn comfort. We maintain a cozy temperature to keep baby sleepy and comfy, and we sanitize all props and wraps before every session.

  • We take a baby-led approach — meaning we never force a pose and follow your baby’s cues for a safe, peaceful experience.
Five heartwarming photos of siblings cuddling together with a baby on a cream-colored plush rug.

Final Thoughts

Your newborn session is about capturing love, connection, and the quiet wonder of your baby’s earliest days. Don’t worry about perfection — we’ll guide everything, from posing to soothing, so you can just enjoy the moment.

Ready to book your session or have questions?

Click here to contact us

Check out my studio space and props here