Ottawa Newborn Photography Studio
The Ultimate Newborn Photo Session Prep Guide
Everything You Need to Know for a Calm, Beautiful Experience
Preparing for your newborn photography session doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. First, you only need the right guidance, and second, you need a photographer who handles the details for you. With both in place, your experience stays calm, meaningful, and relaxing.
This newborn photo session prep guide helps Ottawa parents feel confident and prepared, so you can fully enjoy your baby’s first professional portrait session. Because we focus on a stress-free experience, you can relax and trust that every detail—from styling to posing—works together to create timeless images you’ll treasure forever.
At Sonia Gourlie Fine Art Photography, we design newborn sessions to feel luxurious, baby-led, and stress-free, while creating timeless artwork you’ll treasure forever.
When Should Newborn Photos Be Taken?
The ideal time for newborn photography is between 7–14 days old, because babies are naturally sleepier and more comfortable in gently posed positions during this stage. However, every baby develops differently. So, if your newborn is older than two weeks, we still plan a session that fits your baby’s needs. In fact, I have successfully photographed newborns up to 30 days old. After 30 days, I customize the session to focus on wrapped poses, natural expressions, and meaningful family connection.
For the best experience, booking during pregnancy is strongly recommended to secure availability around your due date.
What to Expect From Your Ottawa Newborn Photography Session
Newborn sessions are intentionally slow-paced and baby-led, so there is no rushing and no pressure—because your baby sets the rhythm.
Your session includes:
A warm, sanitized professional studio
Safety-focused posing and transitions
Access to wraps, outfits, and props
Parent and sibling portraits (optional)
Plenty of time for feeding, soothing, and cuddles
Most newborn sessions last 2–4 hours, allowing for a calm and enjoyable experience.
How to Prepare Your Baby for the Session
A Gentle Bath Before Your Session
If your baby enjoys bath time, a warm, gentle bath before your session can soothe and calm them while also gently waking them up. Bathing often helps release tension and encourages a deeper sleep once you arrive at the studio. If bath time feels stressful for your baby, don’t worry—every baby responds differently, and we always follow your baby’s pace.
Keep Baby Awake Before Arrival
If possible, try to keep your baby awake for 60–90 minutes before your session. Then, feeding and settling at the studio becomes easier, and as a result, your baby often falls into a deeper, more settled sleep during posing.
Feed Baby Just Before the Session
A full tummy helps babies feel relaxed and content. Feeding your baby right before arrival—or once you reach the studio—is ideal.
Dress Baby in Loose Clothing
Avoid tight socks or snug outfits that can leave marks on the skin when baby is removed from car seat . Instead, choose a loose sleeper , because it makes it easier for the photographer to gently change your baby into wraps or outfits upon arrival. As a result, your baby stays comfortable and you avoid any marks on the skin before the session begins.
Bring a Few Essentials
While the studio is fully stocked, parents are encouraged to bring:
Extra diapers
A pacifier (even if rarely used)
A bottle, if bottle-feeding
Wardrobe Styling for the Whole Family — Fully Guided & Stress-Free
Wardrobe planning is often one of the biggest concerns for parents. To make your experience effortless, wardrobe styling is included as part of your newborn session.
Studio Wardrobe for Women & Children
The studio offers a curated wardrobe collection for moms and children and supplys all newborn outfits and wraps , designed specifically for newborn and family portraits.
This includes:
Flowy, flattering gowns for moms
Coordinated outfits for children and siblings
Neutral, soft tones that photograph beautifully
Timeless textures and fabrics for a fine-art look
Assorted newborn wraps in soft, neutral, and organic tones
Fine-art newborn outfits designed for comfort and posing
All pieces are professionally maintained and styled to ensure your final gallery feels cohesive and elegant.
Styling for Men Using Their Own Wardrobe
Men are styled using pieces from their own closet, keeping the look natural, comfortable, and authentic.
Recommended options include:
Neutral, solid-colored tops
Soft fabrics such as cotton, knits, or linen
Clean, simple layers that coordinate with the rest of the family
This approach ensures everyone looks polished while remaining relaxed and natural.
Prefer Your Own Clothing? Wardrobe Guidance Is Always Provided
Families are always welcome to wear their own clothing. Detailed wardrobe suggestions are shared in advance to guide you in selecting pieces that complement the session style.
These recommendations help ensure:
Coordinated tones across the family
A clean, timeless visual aesthetic
Images that remain beautiful for years to come
Whether you choose studio wardrobe, your own clothing, or a combination of both, styling support is always included.
What Parents Should Wear for Newborn Photos
Soft, neutral tones photograph best and keep the focus on your baby.
Recommended colors:
Cream
Beige
Soft grey
White
Muted earth tones
Avoid:
Bright or neon colors
Busy patterns
Logos or text
Simple, classic choices ensure your images feel timeless.
What Siblings Should Wear
Sibling portraits are typically photographed first to help keep the session smooth.
Recommended options include:
Neutral or soft-toned outfits
Comfortable fabrics
Bare feet or simple shoes
Comfort is key, especially for younger children.
What You Don’t Need to Worry About
Many parents arrive feeling anxious about small details—but everything is handled for you.
Baby acne, redness, or scratches are professionally retouched
Crying is completely normal and expected
Feeding and soothing breaks are always encouraged
Your only job is to love your baby. Everything else is taken care of.
Studio Props, Outfits & Styling
You do not need to bring props or outfits unless you wish to include something sentimental.
The studio provides:
Professional wraps and blankets
Neutral and fine-art outfits
Bonnets and headbands
Minimalist and styled sets
Every setup is designed to be timeless, elegant, and cohesive.
Newborn Safety Is Always the Top Priority
Your baby’s safety and comfort come first—always.
Baby-led posing techniques
Proper support at all times
Composite posing when needed
Sanitized props and fabrics
As a Newborn -accredited photographer, Sonia brings extensive training and experience to every session.
After Your Newborn Session: What Happens Next?
Following your session, you’ll receive a proofing gallery to view and select your favorite images.
You’ll be able to choose from:
Digital image collections
Fine art prints
Custom albums
Wall art designed for your home
All images are edited in a clean, fine-art style that stands the test of time.
Why Families Choose Sonia Gourlie Fine Art Photography
Newborn Accredited Photographer
Ottawa-based luxury newborn studio
Calm, baby-first approach
Timeless fine-art editing
Exceptional client experience
Book Your Ottawa Newborn Photography Session
Newborn availability is limited each month to ensure a personalized experience for every family.
👉 Book your newborn photography session in Ottawa today
👉 See Newborn Photography Gallery Ottawa
👉 Check Out our Bundle Value Collections that include Maternity & Newborn First Year.
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