Becoming an older sibling isn’t always an easy adjustment.  Your older child’s routine has likely just been uprooted and then we are asking them to do a lot of listening during the session. This is why I take a go-with-the-flow approach with siblings during newborn sessions.  I encourage them to take sibling photos with the baby, but give lots of breaks. We really only need a few seconds of cooperation here and there to snap away and get the photos that we are looking for.  

Prepping Your Children for Your Newborn Photo Shoot

A few days before the photo session, start talking to siblings about the session.  Let them know that we will take photos of the whole family and sibling photos of them with the new baby, but they can take breaks if they need to.  Try to make it sound like a fun experience.  Let them know how excited you are to have photos of them being a great big sister or brother.

I am a big believer in setting expectations and giving positive reinforcement for meeting those expectations. Let your children know that if they take sibling photos with their baby, they can ____ (fill in the blank with what they are earning).  This could be a special treat, a toy, a show, time alone with mom/dad, etc.  You know your children the best and know what will motivate them.  You can start doing this in small amounts days before the session.  Give lots of praise or a small treat for letting you take a photo of them with the baby.

Eating Beforehand/Have Snacks

I always suggest feeding your newborn before the session, but this suggestion is also true for siblings.  We want to set up the older siblings for success and this means not having “hangry” toddlers 🙂

Being Well Rested

This suggestion isn’t always easy or possible with a newborn, but I suggest trying to keep your older child’s sleep routine the same as usual the days leading up to the session.  A tired child is usually a cranky child and we want to set the siblings up for success. 

Get Some Nervous Energy Out Beforehand

Getting energy out before the session can help older siblings be calmer during the session.  Take them for a walk or let them run around the backyard before getting ready.  We will also let them take breaks to get energy out during the session. 

When To Schedule Your Newborn Shoot

I recommend doing in-home newborn sessions mid-morning.  This is typically the best time for light, but it’s also typically a time when older siblings are between naps or aren’t tired from the day yet.  If we are doing an evening outdoor session, I suggest having a low key day and making sure siblings get a nap in.  

Tips for Helping Siblings Engage with Your Newborn

The day of the session, I will do my best to get a sibling photo, but sometimes we need to be a little creative and flexible about how we do this.  We may not get a photo of your older children holding the baby.  I always want to make sure babies are safe, so I am not going to force a sibling to hold a baby.  We can do things like have them lay down on their back next to the baby or sit behind the baby.  Sometimes just getting close to the baby is all we can get.  It can be frustrating when you really want a specific photo and an older sibling isn’t cooperating, but being flexible and staying relaxed gives you the best chance of getting those photos.  I really just need a few seconds of the siblings together to get the photo.  I often find that if we move on to something else and give older siblings a little time without the focus on them, they will come back and be ready to get in more photos.

Consider the Age Ranges of Your Children

Siblings are going to interact with the newborn differently depending on how old they are.  Keeping in mind what is age appropriate may help you set realistic expectations for photos. 

1-3 Years

They are still babies themselves. Having them lay down with the baby and gently cuddle is often a good way to get them to interact.  I always bring stickers and have been known to put a sticker on the baby’s belly and ask the older sibling to get the sticker.   

 3-5 Years

At this age, siblings are usually starting to want to be big helpers.  Giving them a job can be helpful.  

 5-7 Years

At this age, siblings typically can follow directions and are able to hold the baby for photos.  Each child is different so we will always follow their lead on what they are comfortable with. 

 

Where to Shoot Your Newborn Session

When considering and in-home vs outdoor newborn session, there are many factors to consider.  One of them is older siblings. 

Newborn Sessions at Home

In-home sessions occur in your home so siblings are comfortable in their own home.  If they need to take a break in their room or living room, they can do so.  These sessions also take place mid-morning, so keep in mind if this is a better time for your older children. 

Outdoor Newborn Sessions

These sessions occur out in a field.  If you have an older child that is a good listener and won’t run off, then this could be a good option for you.  These sessions occur in the early morning or evening for best lighting.  Keep in mind if this timing works for your older children. 

Featured Newborn Sessions with Siblings

#1 Featured Newborn session with siblings

#2 Featured Newborn session with siblings

 

#3 Featured Newborn session with siblings

   

 

Ready to Book Your Newborn Session?

Reach out to Sara!