How to Include Siblings in Newborn Photo Sessions

Welcoming a new baby is a momentous occasion for the whole family, especially for older siblings. Including them in your newborn photos is a beautiful way to celebrate their bond and create timeless memories. However, capturing those moments can sometimes be tricky—young children have their own energy, emotions, and attention spans! As a newborn and family photographer in Kent, I’ve gathered some tips to ensure older siblings feel included, cooperative, and celebrated during your session.

1. Make Them Feel Important

The arrival of a new sibling can be a big adjustment, and it’s important for older children to feel valued during this special time. Let them know that their role in the photos is just as important as the baby’s.

Tip:Before the session, explain how much their participation means. Phrases like, “You’re going to help us make these pictures extra special!” can boost their confidence and excitement.

2. Involve Them from the Start

Allow siblings to be part of the session right from the beginning. Whether it’s helping to choose outfits or asking if they've got any ideas for any special poses they'd like to try. Giving them a say helps them feel more involved and children usually respond very well to being given choice and responsibility.

Tip: During the session we can involve the children by asking for their input. I might ask them, 'What blanket should we use' or you could let them choose a special toy from home to bring. Sometimes I'll even let older siblings have a turn taking a photo.

3. Keep It Fun and Relaxed

Young children can become restless during a photoshoot, so it’s important to keep the mood light and enjoyable. I like to incorporate games, silly faces, or their favourite activities into the session to capture genuine smiles and interactions. I also think it's important they take breaks. Usually in a session, I'll start by photography just baby on their own, giving the child some time and space to see what we're doing. In a studio session, I have a play area and encourage children to go and play. I call them over for certain parts of the session and then let them go again. It's a lot to expect them to be engaged for a very long time.

Tip:I like to play games like “whisper a secret to the baby” or ask older siblings to tell a funny story while we shoot. This keeps them engaged and brings out natural expressions.

4. Capture the Connection

Some of the most touching photos are the candid ones—when siblings hold hands, gaze at the baby, or offer gentle kisses. These moments showcase their bond and create heartfelt images.

Tip:Encourage simple, natural interactions like holding the baby’s tiny hand, stroking their hair, or sharing a soft cuddle. These organic moments often make the best photos.

5. Set Realistic Expectations

On a similar note, its important that we remember that young children have short attention spans, and they may not always follow directions perfectly—and that’s okay! The key is to go with the flow and capture their personality, even if it’s not exactly what you planned. All of my sessions are completely led by the babys and children. If we need to take a break, we do!

Tip: A good thing to do, is to prepare the children in advance on what to expect. Tell them about the photoshoot and what's going to happen. Explain that there will be points they'll be needed but also lots of downtime to play. Giving them this information in advance can help manage their expectations when they're there.

6. Choose the Right Time and Setting

Timing is everything when working with young children. I always try to schedule the session during a time when they’re typically well-rested and fed to ensure they’re in a good mood. I'll ask in advance, what's a good time for your family, when are naps/snack times etc.

Tip:A relaxed environment—whether at home or in a familiar outdoor setting—can help siblings feel more at ease and ready to participate. Also, snacks! Whether at home or in the studio, never underestimate the power of a snack to a toddler!

8. Celebrate Their Efforts

I always take a moment to acknowledge and praise the sibling for their participation. A little encouragement goes a long way in making them feel proud of their role in the family’s photos and no praise is better than some praise from mum and dad!

Tip: I keep a 'treasure bag' full of some fun little gifts for siblings and children. It's a lovely way to thank them for how brilliant they've been. At the end of the session they get to pick a prize or two. And lets be honest - a little bribery also goes a long way with children!

Ready to Capture These Precious Moments?

If you’re in Kent and looking for a photographer who knows how to create joyful, stress-free sessions that celebrate your family, I’d love to help! Contact me today to book your session.