What to Bring to Your Newborn Session: The Only Checklist You Need

Here's the good news: you don't need much.

My studio is fully equipped — outfits, wraps, props, backdrops, everything needed for the photography itself. What you bring is about your baby's comfort and your own, not about the session setup.

Here's the complete list, broken into what you genuinely need and what's optional.

Must-Brings

For baby:

• Extra outfits. Bring a couple of simple sleepers or onesies for travel and for after the session. Not for the session itself — I'll provide what baby wears for the photography — but for the journey.
• Your feeding supplies. Breast milk, formula, bottles, nursing cover if you use one — whatever your feeding routine requires. You'll feed during the session.
• Pacifier (if your baby uses one). A huge help for settling between setups.
• Extra nappies and wipes. Significantly more than you think you'll need. Newborns are efficient.
• Burp cloths. Several.

For you:

• Water. You'll be in a warm studio for 2–3 hours. Staying hydrated matters especially if you're breastfeeding.
• A snack. New parents burn a lot of energy. A small, non-messy snack for between setups is genuinely helpful.
• Something to occupy you during long posing setups. Your phone is fine. A book, a podcast — whatever helps you relax. You don't need to watch every setup intently; some parents find it actually helps to look away and trust the process.

Optional But Wonderful

Meaningful personal items. A family heirloom, a letter to your baby, a tiny outfit that was yours as a child. Something that places this particular baby in the context of your family's history. Let me know in advance and I'll incorporate it thoughtfully.

A special personal outfit for baby. If you have a piece of clothing that's meaningful to you — a baby outfit that belonged to a grandparent, a specific cultural or religious piece — bring it. We'll build it into the session.

Your camera or phone for your own shots. Yes, I mean it. You're welcome to take your own phone photos during the session. The gallery you'll receive from me will be comprehensive and professionally edited, but personal snapshots of the process and the environment are yours to keep too.

What You Don't Need to Bring

Outfits for the photo setups. I provide everything needed for the styled photography — wraps, knit pieces, props, colour settings.

Extensive baby gear. Leave the big stroller, the swing, the bouncy chair at home unless specifically requested for a lifestyle element.

Elaborate self-preparation. You're about to sit in a warm room for two to three hours while I photograph your baby. Comfortable clothes, hair you feel good in, no need for a formal look.

FAQ

Can I bring my own props or decorations?
Yes, absolutely. Baby's name letters, a special blanket, cultural or religious items — let me know what you have in mind and we'll plan it in.

What if I forget something important?
The studio has the essentials. If you forget a burp cloth, we have them. If you're short on nappies, we'll work with what you have. The only things I can't provide are your baby's specific food and your personal comfort items.

Should I bring siblings along for the whole session?
See my post specifically on newborn sessions with siblings — but generally, I recommend siblings arrive toward the end of the session rather than sitting through the whole thing.

Any specific questions about your session? Message me directly.

Fernanda Bautzer Photography · 231 Yorkville Road SW, Calgary.