What to Expect During Your Newborn Photography Session
Welcoming a new baby is a huge moment—beautiful, intense, and often a little chaotic. I’m Alyse, a newborn photographer based in the San Francisco Bay Area, and I’m here to help you remember this time just as it is: full of love, connection, and real-life tenderness. My sessions are relaxed and low-pressure—no stiff poses or studio lights—just you and your family in your own space, being yourselves. I’ll offer gentle guidance to help you feel comfortable and look your best, without making things feel staged.
Curious what it’s like to have me come to your home for a newborn session? Let me walk you through it.
When to Schedule Your Newborn Session
Book your session whenever you’re ready—whether that’s during pregnancy or after your baby’s here. Some parents love those early days when their baby is super tiny (0-2 weeks), while others wait for sweet smiles at 6 weeks or beyond. There’s no wrong time, and I’ll work around your schedule. Curious about the best timing for you? Check out my blog post on newborn session timing: When Should You Schedule Your Baby’s First Photo Session? From Newborns to 12 months, Here’s What You Should Know Before You Book.
What the Session Feels Like
I’ll come to your home sometime midday, when the natural light indoors is usually at its best. These sessions are all about connection—cuddling on the couch, a quiet moment between you and your baby, a partner kiss on the forehead while someone rocks the little one. Nothing staged, just real moments unfolding in your own space.
I also take time to capture the small things: tiny fingers, sleepy eyelids, the way your baby curls into you. I follow your baby’s rhythm—if they need to eat, be changed, or just have a moment, we pause. There’s no pressure to keep things moving or make everything perfect.
We block off up to three hours so things can unfold at a natural pace, but most sessions wrap in about 90 minutes. It’s a gentle, unhurried experience, designed to help you feel at ease and to reflect your life as it is right now—in your home, whether that’s in San Francisco, Berkeley, Menlo Park, or anywhere else in the Bay Area.
Including Toddlers and Older Siblings
If you have a toddler or older kids, I always love bringing them into the session. It’s not just about the baby—it’s about your whole family and the connections between you. Before we start, I take time to help your child feel comfortable. That might mean chatting with them, asking about their favorite toy or snack, or showing genuine interest in whatever lights them up. Sometimes I’ll bring a small gift to help break the ice.
I want your kids to feel safe and free to be themselves—that’s when the real magic happens. I’ll offer gentle prompts like, “Can you show me how many kisses your baby sister gets today?” and let their personality guide the moment. Some kids pop in and out of the session, and that’s completely normal. The more we let go of expectations, the more relaxed and real the photos will be.
Getting Your Home Ready
Your home doesn’t need to be perfect—it already holds your family’s story, and that’s what I’m here to capture. When I arrive, I’ll take a quick look around to find the best natural light—usually in the bedroom, nursery, or living room. If you can, open up your curtains or blinds to let in soft daylight, and turn off overhead lights or lamps so we get that clean, natural glow in your photos.
If you have a minute to tuck away a coffee mug or a few toys, great—but don’t worry about making everything spotless. This is real life, and I’m not here to photograph perfection. If i see something in the way, I’ll move it for you. A slightly warmer thermostat helps keep your baby cozy, and some music you love can help set a calm, relaxed tone. That’s really all you need. I’ll take it from there and make sure things stay easy and low-stress.
What to Wear
Wear whatever makes you feel like yourself—comfortable, confident, and relaxed. For moms, that might be jeans and a tee, a soft dress, or your favorite oversized sweater. Start with what you feel good in, then build the rest of the family’s outfits around that for a natural, cohesive look.
For dads or partners, simple works best—jeans and a solid or subtly patterned shirt or sweater. For your baby, start with a snug onesie (sizing down if you're in between), and maybe have a second outfit on hand with a little extra personality.
Soft, mid-tones like navy, gray, tan, or chocolate photograph beautifully and give a warm, timeless feel. Try to avoid bright white or solid black if you can—they can appear harsh. Bare feet or cute socks are perfect at home, and a quick lint roll or once-over with a steamer can help with pet hair or wrinkles. It’s also smart to have a backup outfit for both you and baby—just in case.
Things to Have Handy
Have these ready for a smooth session:
Blankets or muslin swaddles
A special keepsake, like a family memento, if that’s something you want to incorporate.
Extra outfits for you and baby, just in case.
After the Session: Your Photos
In 2-3 weeks, you’ll receive a private online gallery where you can choose your favorite photos to download directly and purchase print products like albums or framed prints to display in your SF Bay Area home. My editing keeps things natural, staying true to the moment. Want to capture more milestones? Ask about my First Year Package!
Why Choose Me?
I’m a San Francisco Bay Area newborn photographer who’s all about capturing your family’s real, unscripted moments in a way that feels easy and true. With over a decade of experience, I know how to find the best light and guide you gently to look your best, without any pressure to be perfect. It’s about giving you a moment to pause and connect, whether you’re in San Francisco, Marin, or Palo Alto, and walking away with photos you’ll treasure for years. Ready to book your newborn session? Contact me here to get started.