Sibling Harmony: Making New Orleans Lifestyle Newborn Photos with Siblings a Joyful Family Affair
As a professional newborn and family photographer serving the beautiful New Orleans Area, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing countless heartwarming moments as families welcome their newest members. Here are some tips and advice for parents on how to include older siblings in newborn photos. And foster a positive relationship between them and their new baby!
Can there be challenges? Of course. But it’s absolutely worth catching these relationships and follow them as they mature.
One of the most touching aspects of my work is capturing the bond between newborns and their siblings. Incorporating siblings into a newborn photo session at home not only creates timeless memories but also beautifully illustrates the love and connection within the family.
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Preparation is Key for Newborn Photos with Older Siblings
Before the photo session, it’s essential to prepare both the older siblings and the newborn. Talk to the older siblings about the upcoming session, emphasizing the importance of being gentle and loving with their new brother or sister. Encourage them to ask questions and express their feelings about the new addition to the family. Let them know they are so important, and baby is counting on their guidance. It’s a great way to include older siblings in newborn photos without them feeling like you are asking them to do something tedious.
Timing is Everything with Lifestyle Newborn Session with Older Kids
Choose a time for the photo session when the older siblingsare well-rested and in good spirits. A calm and relaxed atmosphere will make it easier to capture genuine moments of interaction and affection between siblings. Feed, snack and hydrate everyone. Consider scheduling the session during a time when the newborn is calm, such as after a feeding or nap. To find the perfect time to capture big kids with a new baby in New Orleans, it’s important to think of the big kids nap schedule first. They are probably on a more steady schedule for when they like to nap and eat, if mornings are the best, let’s make sure we schedule newborn photos when big sister is up and ready.
Not sure what you should all wear? Check out my Perfect Outfits for Lifestyle Newborn Photos guide!
Incorporate Familiar Props and Settings for Newborn Photos with Older Siblings
To help the older siblings feel comfortable during the photo session, incorporate familiar props or settings from their daily routine. Whether it’s a favorite toy, blanket, or piece of furniture, including familiar elements can help create a sense of familiarity and ease any anxiety they may have about the session. Lifestyle newborn sessions with older kids can be so rewarding for everyone involved, your first born will beam with pride when holding your new baby.
If you want to gift a “great job” present to your toddler or bigger kid, I recommend stopping in at Pippin Lane to pick up a unique thank you. We can take a few photos of everyone together and then release with a new toy. And we can capture all of those sweet mom hugs as they show off their favorite toy to the new baby.
Encourage Bonding Activities for Sibling Involvement with Baby Photos
During your newborn photo session, we will be encouraging an older sibling to engage in bonding activities with their new baby brother or sister. Simple gestures like holding hands, cuddling, or giving gentle kisses can create precious moments that will be cherished for years to come. Be patient and allow the kids to interact naturally while we capture their interactions from different angles. Listening to their ideas and letting them share as their own ideas for photos with the new baby will help them feel proud about their contributions. Sibling involvement with baby photos can help bring out those tender moments.
Celebrate Connections with Newborn Photos and Older Siblings
Highlight the special bond between siblings by capturing candid moments of affection and connection. Whether it’s a tender embrace, a playful smile, or a shared giggle, these authentic moments truly capture the essence of sibling love. Encourage the older siblings to express their love and excitement for their new baby sibling, reinforcing positive feelings and strengthening their bond. Those connections are going to grow, but the first few weeks with a little baby sister or brother is already so special and perfect to capture during a New Orleans lifestyle newborn session.
Be Flexible and Patient
Above all, remember to be flexible and patient during the photo session. Young children, especially toddlers, may have limited attention spans and may need breaks or distractions to stay engaged. Embrace the unpredictability of working with children and be prepared to adapt to their needs throughout the session. Consider small treats along the way, like a tiny animal cracker or favorite reward. Lifestyle newborn photos with older kids in the comfort of your home often lends itself best to making a session feel easy and encouraging sibling involvement with baby photos.
How to Include Older Siblings in Newborn Photos
By following these tips and incorporating siblings into your newborn photo session at home, you’ll create a beautiful collection of images that capture the love, joy, and connection within your growing family. The best part is, newborn photos get even better when there is a big kid involved. And even if you never did newborn photos with your first or second child, they get to shine in a session showcasing their incredible sibling ability.
If you have big kids with a new baby in New Orleans, reach out to schedule a photo session and we can put these tips to use and capture these precious moments.
Reach out to Jennifer HERE to schedule your newborn photos and create memories that will last a lifetime.
