A Winchester Newborn Photoshoot: 5 Ways to help siblings enjoy the newborn photoshoot

by Hampshire Newborn Photographer, Evie Winter

From the moment I had my second child (if not before) I was feeling the guilt for disrupting her routine, for not giving her as much time in quality or quantity - for everything really.

As a newborn photographer I consider it an honour to be their at the beginning of your new family relationships.
As a childcare professional I have dedicated my life to supporting the growth and development of the children I have cared for and that includes all the children I photograph.

So let’s talk about the siblings and the newborn photoshoot. Everything is different for the big kids, you are all tired and emotions can be running high. In these tricky circumstances we want to get good photos of the newest member of your family, whilst not giving their older siblings any reason to feel jealous and pushed out but to help them feel included.

So here are my suggestions on how to get the most out of your newborn photoshoot and beautiful photos of your newborn baby with their siblings.

Pick a photographer who is experience in working with children.
At any photoshoot, I start off by chatting to parents and chatting to the siblings, possibly sitting down and having a play with them or reading them a book. Taking this time means they are going to feel more comfortable with my presence and less likely to feel jealous about the newborn receiving yet more attention.
We all love a sibling cuddle shot, so ask your child but don’t push them. It isn’t worth it if it makes them upset and you will forever be looking at that photo and remembering how unhappy they were. As a photographer I’ll keep my camera ready and just be ready for the right time. The best sibling shoot might not be posed but it will be natural and taken in a way your child was happy.
Hire a photographer who focuses on the needs of your children and you and not on keeping to a time limit. This is especially important if you have a sensitive older child as sometimes they will need time to open up. this will also allow time for you to feed baby if necessary.
Don’t tell the kids off. We will only get this opportunity once - if siblings are told off, they will get defensive and unhappy. Everyone will be miserable and you will see it in your photos. Have a truce for the morning. Sure we can rebook but your newborn will be getting bigger every day. So feel free to leave the strict discipline to the side for this special time together.
Have your photoshoot at home rather than in a studio. If your older child feels really uncomfortable in new places, consider hiring a family lifestyle photographer who works on location. We will come to your home, when your older child can feel comfortable with their own toys, you won’t have any time pressures to get out on time.

Girl and Mother by Hampshire Baby Photographer

sister holds baby by Hampshire Newborn Photographer

Mother and son. Surrey Newborn Photoshoot

girl in Hampshire Baby Photoshoot by Winchester Photographer Evie Winter

Evie Winter is a newborn and family photographer, she covers newborn baby photoshoots in Hampshire, Wiltshire, Surrey and London. To get more info or book a newborn photoshoot please Get In Touch