As a professional newborn photographer and mother of four, I have gained extensive experience soothing babies over the years and have earned the title of “Baby Whisperer.” Keeping a newborn calm and relaxed during a photoshoot requires skill, patience, and the right comforting techniques. Every baby is unique—some may need feeding, a good burp, or a little extra comfort before settling. Understanding what each newborn needs is truly an art. When baby feels comfortable, parents can relax and enjoy the experience, resulting in beautiful, timeless newborn portraits. While every baby has their own personality, I’ve found several techniques that help soothe and comfort even the fussiest little ones. Here are my top tips for keeping your newborn calm during a session.
Soothing Babies with Warmth
One of the most important elements in keeping a baby calm during a newborn photography session is warmth. Newborns are naturally comforted by a warm, cozy environment that mimics the feeling of being in the womb. Maintaining a comfortable studio temperature helps babies relax, stay sleepy, and feel secure throughout the session. Soft blankets, gentle wraps, and careful handling add to this sense of comfort, allowing the baby to settle naturally. Creating a warm, soothing atmosphere is one of the simplest and most effective ways to help calm and comfort newborns during photography sessions.
Feedings and Diapers
Feedings and diaper comfort are essential for keeping babies calm during a newborn photography session. A well-fed baby is more likely to stay sleepy and relaxed, helping create beautiful, peaceful portraits. Bringing a little extra milk or formula and ensuring baby has a clean, dry diaper will help reduce fussiness and keep your little one comfortable throughout the session.
Swaddling – A Key Soothing Technique
Swaddling is one of the most effective ways to soothe and comfort newborns during a photography session. Wrapping a baby snugly in a soft blanket helps recreate the secure, womb-like feeling babies are used to, reducing the startle reflex and promoting relaxation. Gentle swaddling keeps newborns warm, calm, and comfortable, making it easier to capture peaceful, sleepy portraits. This simple technique is especially helpful for helping fussy babies settle during a session.
Pacifier Soother – Helping Baby Stay Calm
I always ask my mom clients if they are comfortable using a pacifier or soother during the session. I completely respect parents who prefer not to use one to avoid nipple confusion or while establishing breastfeeding practices. However, if mom is comfortable, a pacifier soother can be a helpful tool for calming babies during a newborn photography session. Sucking is a natural reflex that helps newborns feel secure and relaxed, making a pacifier useful for soothing fussiness and encouraging sleep. Even if your baby does not normally use a pacifier, having one available during the session can help settle them quickly and comfortably, allowing us to capture peaceful, timeless newborn portraits.
White Noise – Creating a Calming Environment
White noise is an effective soothing tool for helping babies relax during a newborn photography session. Gentle, consistent background sounds help mimic the familiar environment of the womb, which can comfort newborns and reduce startle reflexes. Using a baby sound machine with soft white noise can encourage sleep and help keep babies calm and settled during posing and portrait moments. This simple technique supports a peaceful atmosphere, making it easier to capture beautiful, timeless newborn photos.
Rocking – Gentle Motion to Soothe Baby
Rocking is a natural and effective way to help soothe and comfort babies during a newborn photography session. Gentle, rhythmic movement mimics the sensation babies experienced before birth, helping them feel safe, secure, and relaxed. Soft rocking, combined with warmth and quiet surroundings, can help calm fussiness and encourage sleep. This simple, nurturing technique is one of the most helpful ways to keep newborns comfortable while capturing peaceful, beautiful portrait moments.
Patting Baby’s Back – Gentle Comforting Technique
Patting a baby’s back is a simple and effective soothing method during a newborn photography session. Light, rhythmic pats provide gentle comfort, help support digestion and burping after feeding, and reduce gas and fussiness. This calming touch helps babies relax and settle into peaceful, sleepy poses for beautiful newborn portraits.
Tucking Baby’s Knees – Gentle Soothing Technique
Tucking a baby’s knees is a helpful soothing technique during a newborn photography session. Gently supporting and bringing the baby’s legs closer to the body can help recreate the natural, curled position newborns are used to, promoting comfort and relaxation. This position helps reduce startle reflexes and encourages a sense of security, making it easier for babies to settle into calm, peaceful poses for beautiful newborn portraits.
Rubbing Baby’s Brow – Gentle Soothing Technique
When posing a baby who is not yet fully asleep, I often gently rub my finger across their brow in a soft, back-and-forth motion. If the baby does not respond, I may lightly rub up and down between the brows. This gentle touch can help soothe the baby and encourage relaxation while preparing for peaceful, posed newborn portraits.
Be Patient and Stay Calm – Key to Soothing Babies
Being patient and staying calm is one of the most important tips for soothing babies during a newborn photography session. Babies can sense energy and may respond better in a quiet, relaxed environment. Moving slowly, speaking softly, and allowing time for feeding, cuddling, or settling helps newborns feel safe and secure. Patience allows babies to naturally relax, making it easier to capture beautiful, peaceful, and timeless newborn portraits.
To learn more about booking your fine art newborn session please contact Kristy Lehman Photography.
