As a Bay Area family photographer, I often work with families welcoming a new baby while navigating the changes that come with this transition. When older siblings are involved, they may feel apprehensive about sharing their parents or uncertain about the new dynamic, which can carry over into how they feel about the newborn session. My goal is to make the process smooth, relaxed, and fun by keeping siblings engaged and comfortable throughout the newborn session. Below are some of my favorite strategies to help siblings feel special and involved during in-home newborn sessions.

I recognize siblings often process this transition in different ways and I always like to start where kids are – sometimes that means giving space or jumping in to play – with or without my camera. I provide extra attention and support to siblings during sessions and educate parents about the ways in which sessions may look different than when simply documenting life with a single baby.

Some kids warm up right away, some need time to settle in to the idea, and some just need a little space from it all. Knowing that not all siblings warm up right away to a new sibling or a photographer (a new person and another person distracting their parents), I have strategies I like to use to help ease the tension and help kids warm up. The following are strategies useful for parents and photographers as they think about ways to keep children engaged and having fun during newborn sessions.

1. Help Older Siblings Feel Special

One of my primary goals during newborn sessions is to make older siblings feel special and engaged. I always start by introducing myself at their level, sometimes with a small, thoughtful gift based on their interests (like a toy car, book, or bubbles). This small gesture helps them warm up faster and shows them that the session is just as much about them as it is about the new baby.

2. Read Their Cues

Every child is different, and it’s important to read a sibling’s cues throughout the session. While some children warm up right away, others need more time or space. I always respect their needs, whether that means giving them room to observe or diving straight into play. By understanding their temperament and interests—often through pre-session communication with parents—I can create a more comfortable and successful session for everyone.

3. Follow Their Lead

Kids are most comfortable when they feel in control. I let siblings take the lead by involving them in small tasks, like helping me with the camera or suggesting photo ideas. If they need a break, we take one. Sometimes we pause for a puzzle or snack. There’s no rush, and that flexibility often leads to the most natural, joyful moments.

4. Spend 1:1 Time Getting to Know the Sibling

If the sibling is comfortable, I love spending a little one-on-one time with them in their room or with their favorite toys. It’s a chance to capture their unique personality and create special portraits that reflect who they are during this exciting time. Of course, I always check with parents first and ensure the child is open to this.

5. Incorporate a Child’s Interests and Talk About the Things They Love

When you talk to a child about what they love most, you can really get them excited and including special interests makes it much more fun and motivating for the child. Does the child like trains? When sitting on the couch or bed for family photos, pretend like you’re all driving on a train and the child is the conductor. Is there a favorite song the child loves? Turn on some music! This could lead to a fun dance party. Most importantly, it will lead to playful and joyful family moments to hold onto. The real trick is learning these things in advance from pre-session communication in order to come prepared.

6. Be Silly

Kids respond to silliness. Whether it’s making funny faces, singing silly songs, or throwing in some light potty humor (if parents are okay with it!), it works every time. I encourage everyone to embrace the fun, because the more relaxed and playful the session, the more genuine the smiles and interactions

7. Talk to Them About What It’s Like to be An Older Sibling

Don’t just keep it all rosy. Really listen. Ask what is great about it and ask what makes it hard? Like all of us, children want to be heard. And when you feel heard, you feel connected.

Why Does Any of This Matter?

When children are calm and engaged, the entire family feels more relaxed, and that positive energy carries through into the session. These newborn sessions are about capturing the love, connection, and authenticity of your family. The goal is for everyone to look back on these photos and feel the warmth and joy of this special time.

Bonus: Games to Encourage Sibling Connection

1. Count babies fingers and toes

2. Use stickers to gently place on the baby’s hand (which can easily be hidden in photos).

3. Smell baby’s head or feet to see if they’re “stinky.” This generally leads to laughs.

4. Ask what kind of animal does baby’s hair feel like? Soft like a bunny?

5. Wrap the baby’s finger around theirs so they can see how strong the baby is.