When you book a Studio Newborn Photoshoot with JW Brown Photography, you can expect a very high level of care, flexibility, and service. As a parent of three and a photographer with a significant amount of newborn experience, you rest assured that I have your whole family’s comfort and safety are top of mind whenever you come in for a photoshoot.

My studio is conveniently located in Ridgefield, CT, and I work with families and babies from across Fairfield County and nearby Westchester Country, NY.

Arriving to your Newborn Photoshoot

When you pull in to the parking lot at my Ridgefield, CT studio, you’ll want to look for the large planter that’s filled with seasonal flowers. My place is straight back from that, next to Pop Art! Kids. You can choose to walk down a couple of steps or else go around the back of the planter for a ramp (a great option if you’re using a stroller!)

When you walk into the studio, you’ll see a number of baskets, bowls, bonnets, and headbands (for girls) all prepped and ready for your little one! You’ll also see professional lighting and backdrop equipment, both of which are key to the high-end images I provide. We’ll have discussed your preferred colors and props ahead of time, and when you arrive I’ll be ready to start photographing your littlest love.

You’ll also notice that it’s quite warm inside the studio, and that’s done purposely. Babies do much better for the photoshoot when they’re nice and toasty, especially when it comes to nude or semi-nude posing. The adults in the room might find it a little too warm, but your baby will love it. If at any point you’re feeling uncomfortable, feel free to step outside or into the other room for a bit!

Fairfield County CT Ridgefield Newborn Photographer Baby Westchester Studio Round Bowl Cream Girl

Newborn Photoshoot Safety

Safety is my #1 priority, always! I’m very experienced at handling newborns with care, and am extremely cautious with every type of posing I offer. Your baby will be safe and secure the entire time they’re with me at the studio.

All of my linens are washed between clients, so your baby will always be wrapped in or placed on top of blankets that are fresh and clean.

The PhotoSHOOT

When we’re ready to start shooting, I will pick your baby up out of their carseat and undress them on my lap. It’s best if they arrive in a zip-up or snap-up outfit with no undershirt. I don’t want to pull fabric over their head and make them upset to start the session. From there I will soothe, swaddle, snuggle, shush, and pose your baby through a range of different positions and props.

If your baby needs a snack, a diaper change, or some extra soothing, we can always take breaks from photography. It is for this reason that photoshoots can last up to three hours: We build in time for the baby’s needs.

We wrap up the session with family and parent poses.

Newborn photography of this style takes a lot of patience and time, so don’t worry if it takes your baby awhile to settle. I always have a workflow of poses and props planned out ahead of time, but am quick to pivot if need-be. Every baby is unique and has a different level of tolerance for posing, and I’m quick to make changes to my plan when it best suits the baby.

It’s best for parents to have an open mind when it comes to their session! I always deliver a beautiful gallery of images for parents, no matter how compliant (or fussy!) the baby is that day. We can also do a number of poses with an awake baby.

The Parent’s Role at a Newborn Photoshoot

RELAX! You’re welcome to sit on the couch and watch me photograph your little one, or else make a phone call, scroll social media, or read a book. If your baby seems hungry, I’ll pass them to you for a snack. Otherwise, relax! Some parents have even been known to take a cat nap on the couch. Parents sometimes worry about their babies spitting up on me (or worse) but I assure you they can't phase me! As a parent, and someone who works with newborns a few times a week, I am not phased by crying, poo, pee, or spit-up.

When it’s time for parent and family pictures, I will let you know and direct you on where to stand and what to do. You’re in good hands!

Older Siblings at a Newborn Photoshoot

I like to tell parents that older siblings are always the “wild card” of a newborn photoshoot, and the babies are the easy ones to mange. I’ve found this to be true 10 out of 10 times! If your baby has older siblings, I recommend that parents find a way for them to arrive for the last 45 minutes of the photoshoot. Sometimes this means that mom and baby show up at the beginning, and dad brings the older siblings toward the end. Otherwise a grandparent or nanny can drop them off.

This way we keep their portion of the day short and sweet. Newborn photoshoots can be tedious to watch for adults, and I like to spare young kids that level of boredom! Also I find that moms can better relax and enjoy the experience without older kids running around.

When it comes to your big kids and their cooperation, be sure to stay cool! Kids take their cues from parents, so if you’re stressed or frustrated, they will be too! I recommend that parents intervene as little as possible, and let me direct and coach them if at all possible. I’m happy to provide snacks, be silly, and play peek-a-boo. Whatever it takes!