Welcoming a new baby is one of the most beautiful (if exhausting) milestones for a family—but when you’re planning a newborn session with a toddler, it can feel a little overwhelming. Toddlers are curious, active, and unpredictable (in the best way), and adding a brand-new sibling into the mix can stir up a wide range of emotions.
As a family and newborn photographer, I’ve had the joy of capturing these fleeting early days for many families—and I’ve learned that with a little planning, lots of patience, and the right mindset; a newborn session with a toddler can be a genuinely fun experience for everyone involved. Promise!
Here are my top 10 tips for making your newborn session with a toddler a smooth and successful one:
1. Manage Expectations—Yours and Theirs
It’s important to go into the session with realistic expectations. Toddlers aren’t known for sitting still or following directions for long periods of time, and that’s totally okay! The goal isn’t perfection—it’s connection. If we capture three or four great sibling shots, that’s a win. The rest of the session can focus on beautiful solo images of your newborn and candid family moments (my fave).
2. Schedule Around Toddler Routines
Timing is everything when it comes to young children. Try to schedule your session around your toddler’s nap and meal times. A well-rested, well-fed toddler is much more likely to be cooperative and cheerful during the session. Morning sessions often work best since kids tend to be happiest earlier in the day.
3. Talk About the Session Ahead of Time
Toddlers thrive with preparation. In the days leading up to the shoot, talk about ‘your friend’ that wants to meet them. You can explain that they’ll get to hold their new sibling (with help), play, and can even read some of their favorite books. This helps ease anxiety and makes them feel included and important.
4. Keep the Focus on Fun During a Newborn Session with a Toddler
Let’s face it—toddlers don’t care how important these photos are to you. What they do care about is whether they’re having fun. During any newborn session with a toddler, I use games, songs, and silly noises to keep things light and engaging. Favorite games, a quick dancy dance, the best books, and even a snack can go a long way toward genuine smiles.
5. Let Them Bring Favorite Toys or Comfort Items
A well-loved stuffed animal, cozy blanket, or favorite toy can be a big help. Not only do these items help toddlers feel safe, but they also make great props in lifestyle photography. If your little one wants to snuggle their teddy bear in a family shot, we’ll embrace it—it’s part of your story.
6. Embrace the Chaos of Newborns and Toddlers Together
One of the best things about lifestyle photography is that it doesn’t require everything to be perfect. If your toddler is bouncing on the bed, peeking over your shoulder, or sneaking a kiss with the baby—those moments are gold. Some of the most memorable images come when families relax and let the session unfold naturally.
7. Plan for Short Attention Spans
Toddlers are famously short on patience, so I always start the session with sibling and family shots. That way, we capture the most important groupings early on, before your toddler’s attention begins to wane. Once those key images are done, they can take a break or head off with another caregiver while we focus on the baby.
8. Have a Second Adult Available
If possible, have another adult present to help with your toddler during solo newborn shots. This could be a partner, grandparent, or friend. It’s helpful to have someone available to keep them entertained or take them outside for a few minutes. This allows us to photograph your newborn in a calm and quiet environment for those solo images.
9. Dress for Comfort and Coordination
When planning outfits, think soft, neutral, and comfortable. Avoid stiff clothing or scratchy fabrics—especially for your toddler. Coordinated (not matching) outfits in muted tones tend to photograph beautifully in-home and allow the focus to remain on your family’s connection. Bonus tip: Have a backup outfit ready for both the toddler and baby in case of spills or spit-up!
10. Celebrate and Praise Your Toddler
This is possibly the most important. Bringing home a new baby = monumental change for toddlers. Celebrating them, and acknowledging their participation and sense of fun and energy mean a lot. A LOT. It lets them know that they aren’t forgotten, that they’re still important, and that you love them just the same. Whether they gave their sibling a kiss, smiled for the camera, or shared a favorite stuffy, or simply sat still for 30 seconds…praise and encouragement go a long way. You can even bring a small reward or treat for after the session to celebrate their cooperation and make it feel like a special occasion.
Final Thoughts
A newborn session with a toddler may feel unpredictable—but that’s part of the magic. Toddlers bring energy, spontaneity, and authentic emotion to these photos. Yes, they might throw a tantrum or run out of the frame, but they’ll also surprise you with moments of tenderness, curiosity, and pure joy.
My job as your photographer is to capture those fleeting moments in a way that feels true to your family. With some planning and flexibility, this session will be a time capsule of your family’s newest adventure…filled with real-life love and connection.
If you’re interested in learning more about child development and helping your toddler adjust to a new sibling, we found Ask Dr. Sears (and their family of books) to be incredibly helpful when our twins were infants and toddlers. They offer lots of practical parenting tips for those early years.
Are you expecting and have a toddler at home? Let’s chat! I specialize in relaxed, heartfelt newborn sessions that include the whole family—yes, even the busy toddler. Reach out to start planning your perfect session.
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