Ever dreamed of capturing your newborn’s sleepy smiles for your cute baby’s first year album but feel overwhelmed by fussy bubs or messy homes? I’ve been there—newbie days, juggling a crying baby, stressing over chaotic shoots. After 10+ years, hundreds of bubs, and workshops with world-class pros, I’ve got quick planning hacks (what those workshops missed!) to make your photo session smooth and stress-free, no fancy gear needed! No more wondering do I do the family washing, or try to learn new photo tricks? Do both! These work for mums, beginners, and pros—phone or DSLR, at home or studio. My free 30-min masterclass will have you planning like a pro in less than 30 mins!
Why Planning Wins Hearts
A stress-free session creates heart-melting photos, calms family, reduce the nervous jitters and fills albums. These hacks deliver:
- Fast: 5 minutes to prep—no hours stressing.
- Easy: Just a blanket and a plan—no pricey props!
- Wow: Gorgeous shots—mums cherish memories, pros land bookings!
Others might say you need a studio or endless prep—nah, my way’s simple, calm, and nails it. Let’s plan that newborn shoot!
1. Time the Session After a Feed
Struggle: Fussy bubs derail your shoot.
Fix: Schedule your session right after a feed when bub is sleepy and content. The best time is in the morning between 9-10.30am when possible. Afternoons newborns often become more restless. Set up a blanket near soft window light, or just hold bub in your arms while they’re content after their feed! Try my FREE 30 minute masterclass for quick calming tips, lighting and posing tricks for easy pro-looking shots.
Tip: Keep a pacifier handy for an intrigued relaxed gaze!
2. Prep a Cozy Setup in Advance
Struggle: Chaos kills your session vibe.
Fix: Set up a cozy corner the night before with a $5 Kmart blanket/scarf and a basket or layer different blanket textures like in the pic below. Swaddle bub tightly to keep them calm like in my wrap video here..
My $37 Baby Whispering Mini Course builds confidence to soothe even the fussiest bubs, even those bubs who are contact sleepers and hate being put down in their bassinet.
Tip: Use earthy tones—mums swoon, less likely to date!
3. Keep It Short and Sweet
Struggle: Long shoots stress everyone out.
Fix: For DIY sessions plan a 15-minute session to snap 2–3 poses (e.g., swaddled or tummy pose). Stop if bub fusses. Edit with my $27 Mobile Presets for a quick vibrant pops.
Tip: Shoot mid-morning for calm vibes!
4. The Pro Secret – The Calm Lock (Tease!)
Struggle: Stress ruins your photo dreams.
Fix: Here’s my trick: timed feeds, cozy setups, have the room toasty warm for bubs and short sessions create stunning shots in minutes, it doesn’t have to be long and complicated! My free masterclass will have you planning like a pro in less time than your little one’s nap, plus you’ll master styling, lighting, and calming, inspired by Sheyne Rowley—check our incredible interview with Sheyne here!
Tip: Want more? My masterclass nails planning in 30 mins—click below!
Level Up with My Free Masterclass!
These hacks are your planning starters, but want pro-level secrets to dazzle family or clients? My free masterclass for at-home or professional shots covers:
- Posing hacks—cute curls, safe and simple.
- Lighting hacks—no gear, just glow.
- Baby-calming moves—peaceful shots every time.
It’s 30 minutes to stunning pics—phone or DSLR—mums save memories, pros get happy customers! Join the free video here —you’ll be so glad you did! Imagine—in 30 minutes, you’ll know what you need to take beautiful baby photos + 12 months and beyond!
My $179 course (reg. $359, worth $579) covers 0-12 months, tricky toddlers, messy homes, and more—get the full course here but see the masterclass first or you’ll pay full price. With styling, posing, lighting, calming, and sleep tips from Tara at The Gentle Sleep Specialist. Or snag my $37 Baby Whispering Mini Course for the best calming tricks that actually work!
