What to Bring (and What Not to Stress About) for Your Baby’s Newborn Photo Shoot
So, you’ve had a baby, and now your camera roll is 90% blurry snaps of tiny feet, funny faces and mid-feed yawns. It’s time to hand things over to someone who isn’t running on three hours’ sleep and cold coffee. (Hi! That’s me – MJ from Little Brown Rabbit Photography.)
If you’ve booked a newborn session at my studio in Darlington (just outside Perth in the gorgeous Perth Hills), this guide will help you know exactly what to bring and wear, so you can rock up calm, comfy, and maybe even finish your coffee while it's still hot.
Let’s make this easy. Here’s what you need to know:
What should I bring to the studio photo shoot?
Spoiler alert: not much.
My Perth Hills newborn studio is fully stocked with everything we need to photograph your baby in the snuggliest, dreamiest way possible, including wraps, backdrops, headbands, and props that don’t scream “Pinterest circa 2011.”
But if there’s something personal you’d love to include; a family heirloom, special blanket, or favourite stuffed animal , I’m all for it. Just give me a heads-up before the shoot so I can work it into the session safely and creatively.
Here’s your mini checklist:
- A dummy / pacifier, even if you’re not usually using one. It can be magic for quick settling between poses.
- Extra milk. It’s warm in the studio to keep your little one cosy while undressed, so babies often get extra snacky. Whether you’re breastfeeding, bottle feeding, or doing both, plan for a top-up during the session.
- A change of clothes, because babies are gross and adorable in equal measure.
- If you're bringing a sibling along (bless you), snacks, a drink bottle, and maybe a quiet activity can help keep things chill.
How to dress your baby for the newborn photo shoot
The simpler, the better. I’m talking Bonds Wondersuits or similar zip-up onesies that are easy to peel off without too much fuss. Buttons or zips at the front are perfect — we want to disturb your baby as little as possible when undressing them.
I usually photograph newborns nude, wrapped, or in beautifully fitted pieces that I have at the studio (the kind that actually fit a newborn and don’t swallow them whole). The goal? Showcasing all the tiny details — flakes, fuzz, rolls, and sleepy scrunches.
Avoid frilly shop-bought outfits unless we’ve chatted and planned for it. Most are too big and can hide all those lovely newborn features.
What should parents wear?
Ah, the million-dollar question. Let’s break it down:
- Stick to simple: Plain tops in white, beige, or soft neutrals are always a winner. Avoid logos, busy prints, or anything too bright. The focus should be on your connection with your baby, not your outfit.
- Layers are your friend: It’s warm in the studio (baby comfort comes first), so dress in light layers and avoid heavy knits. A tank with a loose button-up or soft kimono-style wrap works beautifully.
- Bring a backup top especially for dads. Let’s just say newborn boys have excellent aim.
- Breastfeeding? Wear something easy to nurse in if you’d like to feed during the session (you absolutely can, and I’ll never rush you).
And don’t stress about looking perfect. You just made a whole human. You’re already magic. I’ll guide you gently during the shoot so you feel comfortable and relaxed in front of the camera.
Safety (because that's non-negotiable)
As your trusted Perth newborn photographer, I take safety seriously. Always.
Some of the images you see, like baby appearing to balance their little chin on their hands, are created using composite images, meaning I combine multiple shots to ensure baby is always fully supported.
I use safe, clean props, freshly laundered fabrics, and poses that prioritise your baby’s wellbeing over everything else. Your peace of mind is just as important as the final image.
Still have questions about how to prepare for a newborn shoot?
If you’re not sure what to wear, what to pack, or just want to check if your keepsake blanket will work in photos — reach out. Seriously. There are no silly questions here.
📧 michelle@littlebrownrabbit.com.au
📸 Or drop me a line through the contact form on my website
Ready to Book?
I photograph newborns across Perth, the Perth Hills, and surrounding areas from my warm and welcoming studio in Darlington. I also offer in-home, lifestyle newborn sessions. Sessions are relaxed, baby-led, and focused on capturing your family’s love, minus the awkward posing or fake smiles.
If you're looking for a Perth newborn photographer who gets that this season of life is equal parts chaos and wonder… I'm your girl.
👉 Click here to enquire or book your session (Spots fill fast especially during peak baby boom season. Ahem, looking at you, October.)
