Welcoming a new baby into the family is a magical moment. Capturing that bond in a newborn photoshoot with siblings is priceless. Getting young children to cooperate for pictures however, can sometimes be a challenge. With the right prep, you can turn the session into a fun and memorable time for everyone. Here’s how to get all your littles excited and ready for their sibling’s big photo debut!
1. Hype It Up!
Kids love being part of something special, so start by building excitement for the photoshoot. Talk about how they get to be the “big sibling star” and how fun it will be to cuddle their new baby brother or sister. Show them examples of sibling photos and let them pick a few favorite poses to try. If they feel involved in the process, they might be more eager to participate.
2. Keep It Short and Sweet
Little ones have short attention spans, so keep expectations realistic. A newborn photoshoot doesn’t need to last for hours—we try to focus on capturing a few precious moments before they lose interest. I generally try to get sibling shots early in the session so they can have a break (or a snack) afterward.
3. Practice Makes Perfect
Before the big day, have a little “practice session” at home. Let your child gently hold, kiss, or snuggle a stuffed animal as if it were their new sibling. This can help them get used to the idea of being gentle and patient during the real photoshoot. If they’re old enough, explain that newborns are fragile and need extra care.
4. Bring Snacks and Breaks
A hungry toddler is not a happy toddler! Pack some favorite snacks and drinks to keep their energy up. Having a small treat as a reward for great listening can also be a fun incentive. If they need a break, let them step away for a few minutes and come back refreshed and ready to smile. I don’t want to say bribe them, but …
5. Embrace the Chaos
Let’s be real—photoshoots with young kids and newborns won’t always go perfectly, and that’s okay! Some of the best pictures come from the unplanned, silly, or candid moments. Whether it’s a goofy laugh, a spontaneous hug, or a little kiss on the baby’s nose, those natural interactions are what make sibling photos so special. I never want parents to worry about not being able to get a “good shot.” The young ones will lead where we take the session and that’s just fine.
A little preparation, patience, and playfulness can make a sibling’s newborn photoshoot a fun and heartwarming experience. With the right approach, you’ll not only get beautiful photos but also create cherished memories of this new chapter in your family’s journey.
Rachel Girard is a Colorado based photographer, located in Chaffee County, that specializes in newborns and motherhood photography. She loves capturing intimate relationships within families and looks to capture those special moments that are so often fleeting. She can often be found spending time with her family in Buena Vista, Colorado.
If you are interested in a session, or having a conversation, get in touch. I'd love to talk to you!
