What happens during a newborn photography session?
If you’re wondering what to expect, here’s a clear, step-by-step look at a typical newborn photography session in Memphis with Paulin Photography. You’ll learn how we plan the session, what happens on the day, how we keep babies safe and comfortable, and how the ordering appointment helps you choose portraits you’ll display at home.
Before the session: consultation and planning
Every session begins with a conversation. In a brief consultation we talk about your preferred style, color palette, favorite props or family shots, and any special considerations for baby or siblings. Paulin’s approach is timeless fine-art portraiture tailored to each family, and she draws on ongoing education and workshops to keep techniques fresh and safe.
We’ll also discuss the best timing: many newborn sessions are scheduled within the first two weeks after birth when babies are sleepier and easier to pose, but we’ll adapt to your baby’s needs and your family’s schedule.
Arrival and settling in
On the day of the session we allow plenty of time. Sessions are relaxed and unrushed so baby can be fed, changed, or soothed as needed. A calm room, warm temperature, and soft white noise are common tools to help newborns relax. Paulin’s warm, outgoing personality helps parents feel comfortable while she works gently with baby.
The photoshoot: poses, parent and sibling shots, and details
A typical session includes a mixture of images:
- Posed newborn portraits: Gentle, natural positions that highlight baby’s features and tiny details.
- Wrapped and unwrapped images: Soft wraps and simple blankets emphasize shape and expression while unwrapped photos show skin tones and tiny hands and feet.
- Family and sibling portraits: Comfortable poses that focus on connection—parents holding baby, siblings leaning in, and quiet moments between family members.
- Detail shots: Close-ups of hands, feet, eyelashes, and lips—images that families often treasure for years.
Paulin tailors poses and backgrounds to your vision, favoring timeless compositions and soft tones that age well on walls and albums. She also brings a selection of neutral wraps and simple props, and will work with any special items you want to include.
Safety and newborn handling
Safety is the priority. Poses are always achieved with steady hands, supportive positioning, and the use of composite images when an unsupported pose is desired. Sessions move at the baby’s pace; if an infant needs feeding or comforting, the shoot pauses. Paulin’s ongoing training includes newborn safety and posing techniques so she can adapt to each baby’s needs.
What parents should bring and how to prepare
To make the session go smoothly, consider bringing:
- A few extra diapers and wipes
- A going-home outfit or any special clothing you want included
- A pacifier, favorite blanket, or soothing item for baby
- Outfits for parents and siblings that coordinate but don’t match exactly
It helps if parents arrive with clean, simple clothing and minimal jewelry so attention stays on the baby. Plan to feed baby shortly before arrival if possible; some parents prefer a late feed so baby will sleep during posed shots.
After the shoot: reviewing and ordering portraits
After the session, Paulin schedules an ordering appointment where you view edited images and choose how to display them. This appointment is focused on turning images into portraits—wall art, albums, or prints—so you leave with tangible plans for your favorite photos. Paulin will guide you through sizes, finishes, and display ideas based on your home and aesthetic.
How long does everything take?
Newborn sessions vary in length because they follow the baby’s rhythm. Allow extra time for feeding, soothing, and small breaks. The ordering appointment is a separate visit that gives you a calm space to select images without feeling rushed.
Common concerns from parents
- My baby might cry—will that ruin the session? No. Crying is normal and part of newborn behavior. We pause, soothe, and try again when the baby is ready. Some of the sweetest images happen after a brief comfort break.
- Can we include older siblings? Yes. We plan sibling shots to be quick and natural so older children stay engaged and comfortable.
- What about breastfeeding or bottle feeding during the session? Both are fine. Parents are welcome to feed on request; sessions build in flexibility for those moments.
Why choose Paulin Photography in the Memphis area?
Paulin brings a friendly, relaxed approach and a fine-art portrait style shaped by ongoing education and workshops. Originally from Colombia, she connects with families through warm, personal service and careful planning. Whether you live in Germantown, Collierville, Bartlett, Cordova, or elsewhere around Memphis, the experience focuses on comfort, safety, and portraits you’ll enjoy displaying for years.
Frequently asked questions
- When is the best time for a newborn session? Many families prefer the first two weeks after birth, but sessions are tailored to your baby’s needs and family schedule.
- Do you provide props and wraps? Yes. Paulin brings a curated selection of neutral wraps and simple props, and she will gladly include any meaningful items you bring.
- Is it necessary to book in advance? Booking early in pregnancy or as soon as you can helps secure a session around your due date.
- Can we get parent and sibling photos too? Absolutely. Family images are part of the session and are planned so everyone feels comfortable.
If you’d like a calm, carefully planned newborn session in the Memphis area, contact Paulin Photography to start the consultation and plan a session that fits your family. Paulin will walk you through the process from planning to the ordering appointment so you feel confident every step of the way.
