How to Have a Successful Newborn Photoshoot with Toddlers: Tips from a Fairfield County Photographer

Luxury Studio Newborn Photoshoot with Two Busy Toddlers

Bringing a newborn into the family is a big, beautiful moment—but when that baby has two toddler siblings? Things get even sweeter (and a little more unpredictable, in the best way!).

I recently had the joy of photographing a family who had just welcomed their third baby. Their two toddlers were equal parts excited, wiggly, reluctant, and curious the morning of their session, as most toddlers are.

A Studio Designed for Families to Feel at Ease

One of the best things about booking a newborn photoshoot in my Fairfield County studio is that I take care of everything for you, from setup to outfits and props, to serious soothing chops for your newborn. Take a deep breath! We’ve got this — and you don’t even need to tidy up your home.

I also have a well-stocked snack basket, easy-to-access bathroom, and toy bin available.

MY TODDLER PHILOSOPHY AT A Newborn PHOTOSHOOT: FUN, SILLY, ENGAGING

Photographing a newborn and toddlers together is always an adventure. I don’t expect toddlers to sit perfectly still, but instead will keep things light and fun. I’m more than happy to put toys on my head, play peek-a-boo, hand out plentiful snacks or treats, or whatever it takes to provide a fun environment for the older kids, as well as providing beautiful images for my clients.

With toddlers, flexibility is our friend. I’m always ready to pivot, whether that means switching up poses, offering a quick snack break, or turning things into a game to keep them engaged. The goal? Great pictures, low stress. Every toddler is different, and I adjust my approach to make sure they feel comfortable, happy, and included in a way that works for them.

THE BEST ADVICE I HAVE FOR PARENTS

1. Have low expectations for their behavior.

2. Keep your cool (they’ll feed off of your anxious, angry, or nervous energy.)

3. Be flexible! They’ll come around eventually if we keep things light, playful, and fun. We can try lots of different poses.

4. Don’t make them stick around for the entire session (see below!)

KEEPING IT SHORT AND SWEET

A luxury studio newborn session takes around three hours, but I like to keep the toddler portion to under an hour. Usually this means that a mom will arrive with the baby for the first portion, and a dad will bring the older kids for the last part. Alternately, families can arrange for a nanny or grandparent to drop off the older kids toward the end of the session. Feel free to have them change into picture-ready clothes when they arrive!

For families who are driving from a long distance, or are unable to come in two separate groups, there are a wide variety of places to take older siblings within a mile or two of my studio: The local library (with great toys), a book store, two different playgrounds, a 10+ cafes and restaurants. Plenty of options to keep kids busy and entertained. Often mom and baby stay with me at the studio while a dad will take the older kids out for snacks and playtime.

When we keep the toddler portion short, everyone wins.

• The kids much prefer it! After all, they’d much rather run and shout, head to school or daycare, or play at a park than sit quietly in a dark studio.

• The studio is nice and quiet for those intricate baby-only poses, allowing for smooth transitions

• Mom gets a relaxing hour or two while I’m taking baby-only pictures (the most important!)

Making Your Newborn Photoshoot (with toddlers) Enjoyable

I make documenting your baby's early days easy and enjoyable—from an stress-free newborn photoshoot to timeless images you'll cherish forever. From styling your baby in soft, classic tones to keep your toddlers entertained to creating a relaxed space where your whole family feels comfortable, I handle all the details so you don’t have to worry about a thing.

By the end of this session, this family walked away with a gallery full of images that included the entire family, parent pictures, and a variety of beautiful newborn poses.

If you’re expecting a little one and wondering how to include older siblings in your studio newborn photography, just know—it doesn’t have to be chaotic or stressful. With the right approach, it will be beautiful, natural, and full of moments you’ll want to remember forever.

I offer newborn photography that serves both Fairfield County and Westchester County, and I’d love to help you create images that truly capture your growing family.

Ready to book your own newborn session? Let’s make it happen... Start here!