I don’t think there’s anything better than sweet, sleepy newborn photos. But how do you ensure that baby will actually sleep when it’s time for their session? While little ones don’t always drift off when you want them to (as any parent can attest), there are some things you can do to ensure that baby will be as calm and snuggly as possible when it’s time to take pictures. Here’s how to get baby to sleep for their newborn session:

Keep Baby Up Before Their Session

Newborn babies only have an awake time of about an hour max. (Unless it’s 3 am. Then all bets are off!) If you can keep them awake for that hour (or even 30 minutes) before their session, the likelihood is that they will be sound asleep when it’s time to capture their portraits. If it seems like baby might nod off before you want them to, try giving them a bath to keep them awake.

Book Your Session for 7-12 Days After Baby is Born

Age makes a huge difference in whether you get sleepy baby pictures or awake baby pictures. Newborn photography is a specific style of baby portraiture that works best when your little one is brand new–within the first 2 weeks of life. After that they are more awake and alert (and things like baby acne start to kick in). So stick to that 7-12 day window and you will thank me. 😉

Keep Baby Warm and Wrapped

Babies want to be warm! I keep my studio quite toasty (at least 80 degrees) and always begin my sessions with the baby wrapped up. This way they are warm, cozy, and happy.

These tips for how to get baby to sleep for their newborn session may be simple–but they work like a dream! I hope they help to set your mind at ease as you plan your newborn photography session. If you have questions or need any other advice, please be in touch!