Newborn Photography and Older Siblings: How We Make It Work

Welcoming a new baby into a family is a moment of profound change - especially for the little people who were there first.

Older siblings bring energy, curiosity and emotion into a newborn session and while this may feel unpredictable, it is also where some of the most meaningful images are created. Grandparents are also more than welcome to attend your session, whether they be in the images or on hand to help with siblings.

A Gentle Introduction

We begin slowly, allowing older siblings time to become comfortable in the space and with me! There is no expectation for them to perform or pose for long periods. Instead, we invite them into the experience in small, natural ways.

A cuddle beside their baby brother or sister.A kiss on the forehead.Tiny hands holding tinier hands

These moments cannot be rehearsed but a little bit of ‘this is what might happen at the photo shoot today’ dropped into conversations in the car on the way to me usually prove quite helpful.

Timing With Intention

Sibling photographs are usually taken at the beginning of the session, when little ones are fresh and engaged. Once we have created these family and sibling images, they are free to rest, play or be cared for by another adult while we continue gently with the newborn portion of the session. If they want to be taken out for a walk or to the playground to burn off some energy, then please do so, don’t feel that they have ti stay and ‘be good’ the entire time!

This structure allows the session to remain calm and unhurried for your baby, while respecting the needs and attention span of older children.

Creating a Calm Environment

Children sense the mood of a room. A peaceful, welcoming space helps them feel secure and involved rather than overwhelmed.

There is no pressure for them to smile on command or remain still. If they need a moment, we give it. If they bring laughter and movement, we shape the session around it.

Safety and Comfort, Always

Your newborn is always supported and secure, whether in your arms or nestled beside their sibling. Every pose is guided with care and intention, ensuring your baby’s comfort while honouring the closeness of these first family moments.

Nothing is rushed. Nothing is forced. Everything is safe.

The Beauty of Real Moments

Sibling sessions are wonderfully imperfect. There may be wiggles, whispers, and unexpected expressions. And within those moments lives something deeply honest - the beginning of a lifelong bond.

These images are not about achieving a flawless pose. They are about capturing a relationship in its earliest form.

A Story Worth Preserving

Your gallery will showcase the utter love, joy and beauty of this brand new bond. You will be able to look back and see how your beautiful children looked at one another. How small your newborn was beside their sibling. How your family felt in this moment of becoming more.

That is exactly what I’m here to do, create timeless images for you to treasure and look back on.

Not just a photograph of your children - but the beginning of their story together.

Hannah x