A newborn photoshoot with siblings lets you capture those first moments together as a family. In this post, I’ll show you how to include siblings in your photoshoot without any stress
You’re expecting your second child—or you’re holding them in your arms right now—and one question keeps running through your mind: How will the older sibling react during a photo shoot when everything suddenly revolves around the baby? This concern is understandable and common.
The good news is that, with a little preparation and a calm attitude, a newborn photoshoot with siblings can almost always be a relaxed experience. I’ll show you what’s important to make sure your older child feels included and that the photos turn out natural.
Here is a brief summary of the most important steps in your preparation:
- During a newborn photoshoot with siblings, the older child is usually photographed first and is then allowed to play while the baby is photographed on its own.
- To ensure a relaxed photo session with siblings, the older child is prepared in advance for the baby’s arrival, and the appointment is scheduled for a time of day when the baby is awake and well-rested.
- If both parents are present during the photo shoot, one parent takes care of the newborn while the other takes care of the sibling.
- Siblings should just be themselves during the photo shoot, because natural reactions result in the most authentic photos.
- In a nutshell: Here's how to help your siblings feel at ease
- Why You Should Definitely Involve Your Siblings
- How to Prepare Your Siblings for Your Newborn Photo Shoot
- How do you stay calm during a newborn photo shoot with siblings?
- What should we do if our child doesn't want to participate?
- Frequently Asked Questions About Newborn Photo Shoots with Siblings
- Check out my newborn photography services
- More Information About Your Newborn Photo Shoot
A newborn photoshoot is a special experience in itself. But when siblings are involved, the experience becomes even more meaningful. In the first few weeks after the birth, older brothers and sisters go through an emotional roller coaster, ranging from excitement and curiosity to occasional jealousy.
A newborn photoshoot with siblings helps make this time a positive experience and actively involves the children in the new family situation. Older children are often just as fascinated by the new family member as the parents themselves. They want to help, protect, and learn to understand who is suddenly getting so much attention.
These photos capture one of the most important milestones in a family’s life and will later become cherished memories that you can share with your children. They not only show just how tiny the newborn once was, but also how loving and excited the older brothers and sisters were.
Prepare your older child by talking to them in advance about the baby and the appointment, and choose a time when they’re well-rested and have eaten. Children are more relaxed when they know what to expect. A few simple preparations beforehand take most of the pressure off the day.
When is the best time to be with siblings?
A classic newborn photoshoot takes place within the first two weeks, because that’s when the baby is still sleeping deeply and a lot. If you have a sibling, you can take a more relaxed approach to scheduling the appointment: What’s more important than the “perfect” day is that the older child is well-rested and in a good mood. You can find all the details about the ideal time frame in my post on the best time for a newborn photoshoot.
How do you involve siblings in a way that’s appropriate for their age?
Children react very differently to the subject of photo shoots, depending on their age and personality. Toddlers up to the age of three don’t really understand what a photo shoot is. It’s best not to explain too much to them in advance and don’t prepare them too far in advance. This could lead to tension. Focus on playing, not on being photographed.
Children of kindergarten age often benefit from being given a small role. Let them help decide on the outfit or show them a few sample photos in advance. Explain to them that they have an important role as a big sister or big brother. The more they feel part of the photo shoot, the more cooperative and enthusiastic they will be.
You can involve school-age children directly in planning the photo shoot. Ask them what ideas they have for the pictures. Make them feel like they can actively contribute to the process. Older children often display an unexpected tenderness that comes across very well in the photos.
Regardless of their age, however, you should never put pressure on the siblings or set expectations for them. Genuine emotions and a successful photo shoot can’t be forced.
What kind of preparation helps the siblings relax?
It helps the most if the child arrives at the photo shoot well-rested, well-fed, and in a good mood. A favorite stuffed animal, a small snack, and plenty of time without any rush make all the difference.
I recommend explaining to your child the day before, in simple terms, what’s going to happen: that a photographer is coming, that we’ll take pictures with the baby together, and that your child can play in between. Pack their favorite toys and be sure to plan in some short breaks. I’ve put together a list of the most important points for preparing for your newborn photo shoot.
What can siblings wear to the photo shoot?
When it comes to clothing, opt for calm, coordinating colors and comfortable pieces that your child feels at ease in. Too many patterns or an itchy sweater can quickly be distracting. I’ll show you in detail which colors and combinations work particularly well together in my outfit tips for newborn photoshoots. You can also read about how to coordinate the right outfits for a family photo shoot.
Your calmness is the most important factor. Children can sense right away when their parents are tense, and they pick up on that mood. When you let go of the expectation that everything has to go perfectly, the most beautiful photos almost take care of themselves.
How can you make your trip there a relaxing one?
Be sure to allow plenty of time for the trip to avoid stress. Pack everything you’ll need the night before: outfits, snacks, toys, and maybe a change of clothes in case of little mishaps. If you’ve booked a newborn photoshoot as a home session, you’re in luck: you can stay in your familiar surroundings completely stress-free and welcome me into your home.
How do you create a relaxed atmosphere during a photo shoot?
Parents’ moods have a direct impact on their children—I see this time and time again. Stay relaxed and positive, even if things don’t go exactly as planned. Your positive energy and calm demeanor give the children a sense of security. Soft music, a comfortable room temperature, and familiar objects can help create a relaxed atmosphere. As an experienced newborn photographer, I have plenty of patience and will make sure you feel comfortable so that the photo shoot is a wonderful experience for everyone.
What poses work well for a sibling photo shoot?
Beautiful photos of siblings don’t require complicated poses. Popular poses include the older child giving the baby a kiss on the forehead, or both lying side by side so their size difference is visible. Always make sure to hold the baby securely and support them well. You can find more ideas and safety tips in my post on the most beautiful newborn poses.
How does a photo shoot with siblings work?
A typical newborn photoshoot with siblings should be scheduled for a little more time—about three to four hours—depending on the number and ages of the children. I like to start with family photos of everyone involved while the siblings are still fresh and eager to participate. Next come the photos of the siblings with the baby, before the photo session focuses solely on the newborn while the older children take a break.
The best spontaneous moments often happen at the end, for example when the siblings return after their break and are curious to see what has happened to the baby. Be patient and flexible. Your family’s natural rhythm sets the pace, not the schedule. If you get restless in between, you can find helpful tips on how to calm your baby during a newborn shoot in my article.
Always plan a trusted person for the older children who can comfort or reassure them if necessary while you look after the newborn. A relaxed and safe environment is the best prerequisite for authentic photos and positive memories for the whole family. I have written a separate article for you on safety during a newborn shoot.
A sibling who doesn’t want to participate in the photo shoot is a common challenge. In my experience, with a few tips on how to handle the situation, you can always take beautiful newborn photos.
Children can sense exactly whether they have to do something or whether they are allowed to do something. As soon as they perceive pressure, the chance for natural, carefree images is over. That’s why I have a clear recommendation: no child has to. If the sibling arrives and wants to watch first, that’s completely fine. I then simply start with the baby. In many cases, the older child sneaks closer all by itself at some point.
If a child really doesn’t want to be there that day, for whatever reason, I react flexibly. Sometimes I simply photograph the sibling alone, without the baby, so that they are the center of attention and don’t feel left out. Sometimes a short break, a snack and some distance is enough. And in exceptional cases, it’s simply not a good day and there are slightly fewer sibling pictures.
As a mother of three children, I know that you can’t force emotions. But you can create a framework in which the siblings feel comfortable.
