Get Ready for your close-up


Getting Photo-Ready for Your Newborn and Family Photoshoot: A Complete Guide

Capturing the precious moments with your newborn and family is a milestone that you’ll cherish forever. Whether you're documenting the tiny details of your baby's hands wrapped around your finger or the first family portrait, looking and feeling your best will ensure that these photos are as beautiful as the memories they hold.

To help you feel and look your best for your upcoming photoshoot, we’ve compiled a guide on how to get photo-ready. From skin prep to styling tips, here’s everything you need to know to make sure you shine in your newborn and family photos.

1. Get Enough Sleep

One of the easiest—and most effective—ways to look refreshed in photos is to get plenty of sleep the night before your shoot. A good night’s rest helps reduce puffiness around your eyes, brightens your complexion, and boosts your mood, making you feel more relaxed and natural in front of the camera. Aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep so you can look as radiant as your newborn feels in your arms!

2. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water in the days leading up to your photoshoot will keep your skin looking its best. Hydrated skin looks plump and glowing, and it can even help reduce the appearance of blemishes. Avoid drinking too much caffeine or sugary drinks before the session, as these can lead to dehydration or energy crashes.

3. Avoid Heavy Meals Right Before the Shoot

Eating a heavy meal right before your photoshoot can leave you feeling sluggish or uncomfortable—definitely not the feeling you want for your big day. Instead, have a light snack or meal before heading to the studio to ensure you feel energized and comfortable. Avoid foods that might cause bloating, like beans or too much dairy, and stick to easy-to-digest options.

4. Wear Clothing You Feel Comfortable In

When you’re preparing for a newborn or family photoshoot, comfort is key. Choose clothing that fits well, isn’t too tight or too loose, and makes you feel confident. Solid colors tend to photograph best, as they keep the focus on you and your loved ones rather than on busy patterns. Neutral tones like white, soft pastels, and earth tones work wonderfully for family photos and complement the soft, natural vibe of newborn sessions.

5. Groom Your Hair

For that polished yet natural look, take the time to blow-dry your hair or style it in a way that feels true to you. You don’t need to go for an extravagant hairstyle—just something that’s well-groomed and framed beautifully around your face. If you prefer natural waves or curls, go ahead! A quick touch-up before the session ensures that your hair looks great in the photos without distracting flyaways.

6. Shower and Wash Your Children’s Hair

A refreshing shower or bath before your photoshoot is essential—not just for you, but for your little ones too! Clean, freshly washed hair looks its best in photos, so be sure to give your children a good scrub and wash their hair the night before your shoot. This helps them feel fresh and comfortable, and their hair will shine beautifully in the pictures. When it comes to newborns, a gentle wash or wipe down is all you need to ensure they look their best, but for toddlers and older children, a quick blow-dry or comb through will keep their hair looking neat and tidy for the shoot.

7. Prepare Your Hands for Close-Ups

Hands are often featured in newborn photography, from those tender moments of holding your baby to those intimate close-up shots of your newborn’s hand wrapped around your finger. To ensure your hands look their best, take a few minutes to prep them.

  • Exfoliate: Smooth and soft hands make a huge difference in photos. Gently exfoliate your hands with a scrub to remove dead skin, followed by a hydrating hand cream.
  • Nails: Clean off any old nail polish and give your nails a fresh coat if desired. Light, neutral tones like nude or soft pinks work well in photos and won’t distract from the natural beauty of the moment.

If you prefer to leave your nails natural, just make sure they’re clean and well-maintained.

8. Prepare Your Skin

Flawless, glowing skin is always in style for photos, and with just a little extra care, you can achieve that fresh, dewy look for your shoot. Start with exfoliation to slough off any dead skin cells, followed by a rich moisturizer to hydrate and soften your skin. This step ensures that your skin looks smooth and luminous, even under the bright lights of the photoshoot.

If you wear makeup, consider a light, natural look that enhances your features rather than masking them. A little bit of foundation or concealer can go a long way in evening out your skin tone. Just be sure to go for products that won’t clog your pores or look heavy on your skin.

9. Final Adjustments: Look Over Yourself and Your Children

Before you head to your photoshoot, take a moment for final checks and adjustments to ensure everything looks just right. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Empty pockets: Bulky keys, phones, and other items can create awkward bulges and distract from the overall look. Make sure everyone’s pockets are empty before you go.
  • Straighten clothes and hair: A quick look in the mirror can help you adjust any wrinkles in your clothes or stray hairs that need to be smoothed down.
  • Use a lint roller: Run a lint roller over your clothes to remove any stray hairs or dust that might show up in photos.
  • Clean your children’s faces and noses: A quick wipe of your child’s face and nose will help them look fresh and avoid any distracting marks. You don’t want to miss those adorable expressions because of something as simple as a runny nose!

Taking a few minutes for these small details can make a big difference and help ensure your photos come out looking perfect.

10. Relax and Enjoy the Moment

Finally, one of the best ways to look beautiful in photos is to relax and enjoy the experience. Your photographer will guide you through the session and help you feel comfortable, so trust the process and focus on the love and joy you share with your family. Authentic smiles, real emotions, and candid moments are what make newborn and family photos truly unforgettable.

Conclusion

Preparing for a newborn or family photoshoot doesn't have to be stressful. By following these simple tips, you’ll be photo-ready and feeling confident when it’s time to capture those sweet moments. From getting enough rest to prepping your skin and hands, every little detail will help create beautiful memories that you’ll treasure for a lifetime.


I can't wait to help you celebrate this special time with a photoshoot that you'll remember forever. If you're ready to book your session, reach out to me today, and let's create magic together!


YOUR NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION WITH ELIZABETH LANG PHOTOGRAPHY