Welcoming a new baby into the family is an exciting time, but it can also be a big adjustment for older siblings, remember, this is a new person entering their world and taking their parents time and attention - They may need time to adjust. When planning a newborn photography session, it's essential to prepare your older child as much as possible to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Here are some practical tips on how to prepare older siblings for their role in the session:

1. Set Realistic Expectations

Before the session, have a conversation with your older child about what to expect (we understand this may be hard with a 2-year-old!). Explain that newborn photography involves capturing beautiful moments with their new sibling and that it's a special time to create memories. Emphasise that it's okay if they don't always feel like smiling or posing perfectly; the goal is to capture genuine moments of love and connection. This will help manage their expectations and reduce any pressure they might feel.

2. Avoid Bribery

It can be tempting to promise your children a reward for cooperating during the photoshoot, but this can backfire. When kids hear about a reward, they might assume that the photoshoot itself won't be enjoyable. Instead of telling them they’ll get a treat if they behave, focus on the fun aspect of the session. Encourage them with praise and gentle reminders, and make sure they understand that their role is important and valued.

3. Help Them Get Comfortable Holding the Newborn

Before the session, spend some time helping your older child become comfortable with holding their new sibling. If possible, allow them to hold the baby under supervision and practice different poses or positions. This practice can help alleviate any anxiety they may have about handling the newborn and make them feel more confident during the session. Let them know that it's okay to ask for help if they need it. It will also help give you an idea of what we can expect older kids to do at the newborn session, if they won't have a bar of it at home, they likely won't in studio, so we will need to adjust the way we shoot - likely with a prop for baby.

4. Familiarise Them with the Session Setup

Take a few moments to explain what will happen during the photography session.  If you have a chance, show them examples of similar photos or explain what kinds of poses or interactions might be involved. Familiarity with the process can help ease any apprehension and make them feel more at ease.

5. Create a Fun and Relaxed Atmosphere

Make the photography session enjoyable for your older child by creating a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Bring along their favorite toys, snacks, or comfort items to help them feel at ease. Allowing them to take breaks or have moments of play can also help keep their spirits high. A relaxed environment will help them stay calm and engaged throughout the session.

6. Involve Them in the Process

If possible, involve your older child in the preparation for the session. Let them help pick out their outfits or choose a special item to include in the photos. This involvement can make them feel more invested in the process and excited about being part of the family memories.

7. Be Patient and Understanding

Remember that your older sibling may have mixed emotions about the new baby and the photography session. Be patient and understanding of their feelings. Offer plenty of encouragement and reassurance and be prepared for the session to take its own course. Sometimes, the best moments come from unexpected interactions.

8. Schedule with Flexibility

Allow for some flexibility in the session schedule. Babies and children can be unpredictable, so it's important to approach the session with an open mind. If things don’t go as planned, don’t stress. A relaxed attitude will help everyone, especially the older sibling, feel more comfortable and cooperative.

Final Thoughts

Preparing older siblings for a newborn photography session involves setting realistic expectations, avoiding bribery, and fostering comfort with the new baby. By creating a supportive and relaxed environment, you can help your older child embrace their role and contribute to beautiful family memories. With a little preparation and patience, your photography session will be a cherished experience for the whole family.