Below is a guide on how to prepare for a photoshoot so that it turns out AMAZING! A professional photoshoot is a wonderful way to capture timeless memories of your baby and family. From newborn photoshoot tips to family photoshoot tips, a little preparation goes a long way in making sure your photos are truly special.
At Pitter Patter Studios, we want to help you feel confident and relaxed so you get the absolute best results. Here’s our expert guide on how to prepare for a photoshoot.
📸 No 1 Tip on How to Prepare for a Photoshoot. Choose the Right Photoshoot for You
Every photoshoot is unique, so think about what you’d like to capture:
✔️ Newborn session – Soft, cosy setups, sleepy poses, and tiny details.
✔️ Sitter session – Celebrating baby’s first giggles, sitting up, and personality.
✔️ Family portraits – A relaxed session that captures your families connections.
🎯 Tip: Book early, especially for newborn sessions (best within the first 2 weeks!).
🎭 2. Choose the Right Outfits
Your outfits can set the mood and make a big difference in your final images.
✔️ Stick to neutral, soft tones (cream, beige, pastels) for a timeless look
✔️ Avoid big logos, loud patterns, and bright neon colours
✔️ Photoshoot Tip for Families: Everyone wearing simple white or black t-shirts with blue jeans works great either & draws attention to faces.
🎯 Tip: When coordinating outfits, they don’t need to match identically – think of complementary tones.
⏳ 3. Timing is Everything
✔️ Photoshoot tip for Newborns: For this stage, it’s unusual for the baby to already be in a routine so we normally advise morning time sessions. We ask that you feed and change baby before coming to your photoshoot so baby is most likely to be sleepy.
✔️ Older Babies: When baby has slept and eaten. Again morning times usually work well for this when baby is well rested and not due a nap.
✔️ Families: Choose a time when everyone is off and not rushing to make it from somewhere else. An occasion when everyone is already dressed up, works really well for Family shoots, e.g. Communion/ Confirmation.
🎯 Tip: Don’t put yourself under pressure to pick which one is best for you. There will be plenty of opportunities to get professional photos of all your family milestones over the years.
🧸 4. Talk to us in Advance so we can Create the most Meaningful Photos
One of the most important ways to prepare for a photo shoot is by having a chat with with photographer. We will give you a call when you book in to find out a bit more about your baby and/or your family so that we can make your photos even more special.
✔️ Tell us a little bit about your baby/ family personalities.
✔️ Share something that is really meaningful to your family.
✔️ We’ll discuss some set ups that you definitely don’t want us to miss out on. (e.g. Grandma & baby)
🎯 Tip: Feel free to bring along a favourite teddy or heirloom accessory but remember that less is more avoid overwhelming the setup.
😊 5. The Final Step on How to Prepare for a Photoshoot is the most fun. Relax & Enjoy the Experience!
The best photos come when you’re natural, relaxed, and having fun so now that you have your session booked, sit back and enjoy and leave the work to us.
✔️ Trust your photographer – We’ll guide you through the shoot.
✔️ Interact naturally – Laugh, play, cuddle – these moments create magic!
✔️ Don’t stress if your baby isn’t cooperating – Our sessions are baby led & some babies just take longer to adjust to their new surroundings.
✔️ Bring snacks for little ones (we aren’t opposed to bribes!!)
🎯 Tip: Don’t worry about being ‘perfect’ – the best photos come from real moments.
📩 Ready to Book Your Photoshoot?
Now that you know how to prepare for your photoshoot, take a moment to book your session. At Pitter Patter Studios, we specialise in capturing timeless memories. Whether it’s your newborn, older baby or family, we promise an stress-free, fun, and professional experience.