What a Session Looks Like
A newborn session with me is slow, gentle, and completely led by your baby. We start the session at your home or a warm studio space, and we never rush. A typical session lasts between two and three hours — much of that time is simply waiting: waiting for your baby to settle, feeding pauses, nappy changes, small adjustments.
This is entirely normal. It's not a sign anything is going wrong.
I work at room temperature that's comfortable for a sleeping, undressed baby — slightly warmer than you might be used to. I'd suggest dressing in light layers so you stay comfortable too.
Throughout the session, I'll move your baby slowly and carefully between poses. Safety is always the first consideration; any image that looks precarious has been created with careful support that's simply edited out afterward.
Preparing for your newborn photography session? Here's everything you need to know to feel calm, ready, and present on the day.
Rita soares photographer
There is a window of time with a newborn that closes faster than anything else in parenthood. Those first weeks — the curled fists, the milky sleep, the way they fit perfectly in the crook of your arm — are over before you have a chance to properly notice them. A newborn session exists to slow that window down, even just a little.
If you've never done one before, it's completely natural to wonder what it actually involves, how to prepare, and whether your baby will cooperate. Here's everything I wish every new parent knew before we meet.
The night or morning before
Feed your baby as close to the session start time as possible. A full, sleepy baby is the best-case scenario.
Keep the house at a comfortable warmth — around 24–26°C if possible.
Try to rest. I know that sounds almost laughable in those early days, but a calmer parent makes for a calmer session.
On the day
In case we do it in your place, don't stress about the house. I'm not there to photograph your living room.
Have nappies, wipes, and a spare outfit or two within reach.
Feel free to feed, soothe, or hold your baby whenever needed. We work around you.
What to wear
If you'd like to include portraits of you and your partner holding your baby, neutral tones: creams, soft whites, grey tend to work beautifully and keep the focus on your baby's face.
Including Siblings and Family
If you have older children who want to be part of the session, I'd love to include them. The key is to photograph them first, while they still have patience — and then let them get on with their day. Some of my most treasured images have come from a toddler leaning in to look at their new sibling with that mixture of curiosity and wonder that only children have.
Book Your Newborn Session
Newborn sessions are best booked during pregnancy — ideally in your second trimester — so we have a confirmed date and can be flexible around your baby's actual arrival. I keep a small number of spots reserved for babies who arrive ahead of schedule.
If you're expecting, I'd love to hear from you.
Or follow along on Instagram for a behind-the-scenes look at sessions, locations, and the small moments I love to capture: @ritasoaresphotographer