Yes, parents belong in newborn photos. One day your children will want to see you holding them, loving them, right in the thick of those early days. These newborn photo sessions capture your whole family together.
These images often become your first family portraits together. They capture the bond between you and your newborn in a way that solo baby shots simply cannot.
Why Parents Belong in Newborn Photos
Your kids will look back at these photos and want to see their mum and dad in the frame. Solo newborn shots are beautiful, but family photos tell a fuller story. They document your changing family and the love you share for your new baby. These images capture a fleeting moment when your family was brand new.
You won’t regret having these images. Many parents say the family shots end up being their favourites, even when they initially thought they’d prefer just baby photos.
Ask Your Photographer First
Not all newborn photographers include parent photos in their sessions. Some focus only on baby solo poses.
It’s worth asking at your initial inquiry what’s included. Don’t assume every newborn session automatically captures the whole family.
If parent and family shots matter to you, confirm your photographer offers them. Ask what poses they typically capture with parents and siblings during a newborn session.
Some photographers specialise in lifestyle sessions with lots of family shots. Others focus on posed newborn photography with just a few parent images. Knowing the style helps you choose the right photographer.
Popular Poses for Parents with Newborns
- A wrapped newborn with parents is a classic starting pose. Baby stays calm and cosy while you snuggle them close to your chest.
- It’s easy to swap between mum and dad for variety. This pose works well even when baby is awake or unsettled.
- Baby in dad’s hands or arms is another favourite. It highlights how tiny your newborn really is.
- Dad’s hands provide gentle support for baby’s head and body. This pose often becomes a treasured image for grandparents too.
- Mum and baby laying down together is often the most requested pose. It’s flattering and captures that intimate connection.
- Your photographer may suggest the nursery or a soft blanket setup. The nursery is a special place to document in your newborn photos.
- Your photographer will help you create beautiful photographs of your newborn babies in this cosy space.
- Parents with baby between them works beautifully. You stand facing each other, holding your little one in the middle.
- Looking down at baby or at each other both create gorgeous shots. Dad kissing mum while she holds baby is another sweet option.
- Baby on dad’s shoulder is a natural, comforting pose. It’s how parents often hold newborns when settling them.
- Close-ups of baby with just a hint of parents in the background focus on those tiny details. These add variety to your newborn session.
- Black and white parent photos are timeless and elegant. They often become the most treasured images in a family’s collection.
Including Siblings in Newborn Photos
If you have older children, sibling shots are usually taken at the start of the session. That’s when toddlers are freshest and most cooperative.
Your photographer will have techniques for reluctant little ones. Even uncooperative siblings can usually be captured in at least one beautiful family photo. Dad can stand behind an older sibling to support them while they “hold” baby. This keeps everyone safe while creating the shot.
Some studios suggest a parent takes older kids for a play or babychino after sibling photos. That lets your newborn settle for their solo shots without distraction.
For more on incorporating pets into newborn photos, see our guide if you have a furry family member too.
What to Wear for Parent Photos
Neutrals are timeless and work with most newborn setups. Think creams, soft greys, and muted tones. Consider where you’ll display the photos when choosing your palette. The nursery may suit warmer tones while the living room might prefer neutrals.
If your nursery has a particular colour scheme, you might coordinate with that. The goal is to look cohesive without matching exactly.
Your photographer can offer guidance when you book. Many studios have a client wardrobe for mums if you’d prefer not to choose. Avoid busy patterns or logos that distract from your newborn. Simple, solid colours or subtle textures work best for parent photos.
When to Take Parent Photos
The ideal window for newborn photography is before two weeks, typically between 7 and 10 days old. Earlier than 5 or 6 days can be tricky as feeding is still establishing.
Parent photos are usually woven throughout the session. Your photographer will work them in alongside baby’s solo poses.
For the typical newborn session flow and experience, family shots often come after some initial baby setups. The session runs at baby’s pace with plenty of time for everyone.
A typical newborn photography session allows 2 to 3 hours. This gives plenty of time for baby solo poses, parent photos, and sibling shots without rushing.
Many Perth families book their photo session during pregnancy, alongside their maternity photos.
Feeling Tired or Insecure?
The early days post-delivery are a rough adjustment. Sleep deprivation, new routines, and questioning every little thing can leave you feeling less than camera-ready. That’s completely normal. New parents, especially mums, can be hard on themselves about how they look.
When you look back at these photos, you won’t see tired faces. You’ll see love.
The goal is to capture the closeness of your new little family. A moment to get a little dolled up can feel like a nice break from the new routine. Your photographer has seen it all and will put you at ease. They’ll guide you through each pose so you can focus on your baby.
Conclusion
Parents and siblings belong in newborn photos. These images become treasured family portraits that your children will cherish.