Can Siblings Be Included in Newborn Photos? | Lansing MI
One of the most common questions I receive is, "Can our older child be included in the newborn session?"
Absolutely! Those first photos of siblings together often become some of the most treasured images in your gallery.
Whether your little one is 2 or 12, I love documenting the beginning of their relationship with their new baby brother or sister.
Keep Expectations Realistic
If you have a toddler, the best advice I can give is to come in with low expectations.
Toddlers have big feelings. They may be excited one minute and completely uninterested the next. That's simply part of this stage of life.
The less pressure you put on your child to smile or cooperate, the more natural the session usually feels. My goal isn't perfection—it's capturing your family just as you are during this special season.
Choosing the Right Session
If sibling and family photos are important to you, my Newborn Full Session gives us plenty of time to capture a variety of family, sibling, and baby-only images without feeling rushed.
My Lifestyle Newborn Mini also includes family and sibling photos, but in a more natural, interactive way. Rather than focusing on posed portraits, we'll capture genuine moments of your family together.
If you're booking my Newborn Mini Session, you can also add one sibling pose if you'd like a special photo of your children together while keeping the session short and baby-focused.
Preparing for Your Session
The preparation guide I send before your session is one of the most important parts of the experience.
Making sure everyone is well-rested, fed, and arriving with realistic expectations helps the session go much more smoothly.
Of course, babies and toddlers don't always follow the plan—and that's perfectly okay. We simply slow down, take breaks if needed, and work around what your children need in the moment.
Safety Always Comes First
Whenever siblings are holding or posing with your newborn, your baby's safety is always my highest priority.
Every pose is carefully guided, and I'll always stay close by to make sure your baby is safe, secure, and comfortable.
Every Gallery Is Different
No two newborn sessions are ever exactly alike, and that's one of my favorite parts of this job.
Some toddlers love every second of the experience. Others need extra cuddles, snacks, or a little time to warm up.
Whatever your session looks like, we'll work together to create beautiful images that tell your family's story—not someone else's.
If you're hoping to include siblings in your newborn photos, I recommend reserving your session during your second trimester, as I only accept a limited number of due dates each month.
Other topics you may enjoy reading about...
- What If My Baby Won't Sleep During Their Newborn Session?
"Just like toddlers, newborns don't always follow the plan..." - How Long Does a Newborn Photography Session Take?
"...my Full Session allows plenty of time for sibling and family photos..." - How to Prepare for Your Newborn Photography Session
"...the preparation guide I send before your session..." - When Should You Book a Newborn Photographer?
"...I recommend reserving your session during your second trimester..."