Tips for Preparing Toddler Siblings for a Newborn Photography Session

As a Newborn Photographer, one of the most requested images to get is a sibling picture. But it is also the hardest one to get. Especially with siblings who are around the age of 18 month - 3 years.

Capturing the special bond between siblings and their new arrival is truly heartwarming, and it is magically when all the stars align. I work so hard to achieve these images, but there is lots you can do as well to prepare your siblings prior to your session!

Here are some tips to help make the experience enjoyable and as stress-free as possible :) for everyone involved:

• Start Early:

  • Begin preparing siblings for the newborn session well in advance. Explain to them what to expect and involve them in the process from the beginning. I ask clients to have younger siblings lay down on their bed at home, and tuck baby in next to them! Before baby arrives they can use a doll to practice. This helps them get used to the feeling of holding and being near to baby!

• Set Expectations with your Toddler:

  • Explain that you are going to go for an adventure, and while you are there, they will get to hold baby! Make coming to my studio, an exciting thing they can look forward to!

• Practice Poses:

  • Encourage siblings to practice holding (or laying next to) the baby safely under your supervision. This helps them feel more comfortable and confident during the actual session.

• Choose Comfortable Outfits:

  • Select outfits for siblings that are comfortable and easy to move in. Avoid clothing with loud patterns or logos that could distract from the focus of the photos. A basic white t-shirt is sometimes one of the best outfits for siblings. Photographs well and is comfortable for your toddler.

• Be Flexible:

  • Understand that young children may have unpredictable moods or reactions during your session. Letting it seem like it’s their idea to hold baby is the best option.

• Offer Rewards:

  • I am ALL about rewards during your session. LOL. So consider offering small incentives or rewards for good behavior during the session. I also can hide “goldfish” or “Yogis” in baby’s wrap and let toddler come to get them! Turns it into a game, and they love it. I have also been known to play Ms. Rachel on a phone or iPad above my head while shooting :)

• Avoid Phrases like “Take a picture with baby”

  • A lot of times, taking a picture to a toddler means “no fun at all”. It means they have to hold still and not do what they want to do. So I try to avoid them even hearing the word “picture”. All they need to know is that they GET to snuggle their new brother or sister! And that is so special! They don’t even need to know they are getting pictures taken.

• Set Expectations for Yourself:

  • I know that getting these sibling pictures are sometimes the most important for parents, and please know that I will do everything I can to ensure those images happen. But the best thing you can do, is expect NOT to get any, then if you do, its just like icing on the cake! All you can do is prepare your toddler as much as you can in advance, but as we all know, toddlers run the show. Getting a good sibling shot is not a guarantee, but we will give it our best shot!!