5 Must-have photos for your newborn session | Mesa Newborn Photographer

The “newborn blur” is real. Those first few days fly by faster than you expect. One minute they’re tiny and sleepy, the next they’re rolling over and looking up at you with those bright eyes– attentive, curious, and full of wonder. 

Before you know it, you’re asking yourself, “Where did my baby go?!” and find yourself scrolling back through all of those first few days and weeks. As a Mesa Newborn photographer, I’ve learned there are a handful of must-have newborn photos that truly matter…the ones you’ll be grateful you captured.

Baby solo portraits (because these details don’t last)

This one may feel obvious as it’s the heart of your newborn session. Those tiny fingers and toes, the soft puckered lips, the squishy cheeks…they’re the little details you never want to forget. Even their hair– the color, texture, and little swirl pattern may quickly change in the blink of a tired eye. Photographing these features while they’re still brand new preserves a version of your baby you’ll never see again. 

My approach to lifestyle newborn photography is baby-led, allowing for natural moments to unravel. For solo baby photos, we simply lay your baby on your bed or in their crib surrounded by natural light to create timeless, emotive newborn photos. 

Mom/Dad with baby

Postpartum, it can feel overwhelming to be in front of the camera, but one day, your child will be searching for a photo of you. The person who first cared for them. The one who loved them with your whole heart long before you ever saw their face. 

They’ll want to see the way you held them close to keep them warm and safe, and how Dad’s protective hands gently framed their tiny, delicate features.

They’ll want to see the love that created their world. These moments are more than just photographs. They’re proof of how deeply you loved them from the very beginning. 

Family photos with baby

Suddenly, you’re a family of three…or maybe five. As your family grows, you’ll want photographs that reflect this new chapter. The intimacy of the tender, connected, and slightly chaotic beauty of your life right now. 

Family photos during a lifestyle newborn session are about perfect posing or everyone smiling at the camera. They’re about documenting the way you naturally snuggle around your newest little addition. The way big siblings hover close, the way you gaze and reach for each other, the way your home feels full in a brand new way. 

During these moments, I guide gently, keeping things relaxed so your family’s true rhythm can unfold. Whether we’re gathered on your couch, snuggled on your bed, or playing in the nursery, these images tell the story of what your family looked like the moment everything changed. 

And if your parents are visiting or close by, invite them in for a quick photo. Generational portraits are such a gift of a quiet moment that shows the love of your baby and the legacy they’re now part of. 

Siblings with baby

These are some of the most precious and nostalgic photos, as they signify the beginning of sibling bonds that run deep. Some siblings are instantly gentle and curious, while others may need a little time to warm up– and that’s totally okay. Every interaction, from tiny kisses to quiet glances, tells the story of their growing relationship.

I let these moments unfold naturally, capturing genuine connection rather than forcing poses. Big toddler sis may want to twirl in her pretty gown while mom and dad handle the baby, or your helpful seven-year-old may wish to hold their new sibling just right, showing off their protective heart. Years from now, these images will be the center of many conversations.

Pets with baby

Often, our first ‘babies’ are our furry companions. Pets are like a bonus sibling, and capturing those interactions adds another layer of love and storytelling. From the beginning of your pregnancy, there’s been an unspoken bond of understanding that you’re expecting a baby. 

Safety always comes first. We position pets carefully and allow introductions to unfold slowly so everyone, human and animal, feels comfortable. The magic happens when a pet nuzzles a newborn, curls up nearby. These little moments are playful, capturing the gentle, protective bond and personalities of your beloved companions. 

Essential photos for your  newborn session

In-home lifestyle newborn sessions aren’t about Pinterest-perfect setups or everyone smiling on cue. They’re about capturing the tiny details, genuine connections, and fleeting moments that truly tell your family’s story. 

When you schedule your newborn session, focus on the moments that matter most. The ones you’ll return to over and over again, and the heirlooms you’ll pass down for generations.

Start planning your Mesa newborn photo session today.

explore more of the journal

• The Grandparent Photo Gift Guide: Curating Legacy
• In-Home Newborn Photography