Surrey Newborn Photos- Getting Photo Ready

1. Get Enough Sleep

One of the simplest ways to look your best in photos is to get a good night’s sleep before your session. Being well rested helps reduce puffiness, brightens your complexion, and just makes you feel more relaxed and comfortable in front of the camera. Aim for as much rest as you can so you can show up feeling refreshed and ready to enjoy the experience.

2. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water in the days leading up to your photoshoot will keep your skin looking its best. Hydrated skin looks plump and glowing, and it can even help reduce the appearance of blemishes. Avoid drinking too much caffeine or sugary drinks before the session, as these can lead to dehydration or energy crashes.

3. Avoid Heavy Meals Right Before the Shoot

Eating a heavy meal right before your photoshoot can leave you feeling sluggish or uncomfortable—definitely not the feeling you want for your big day. Instead, have a light snack or meal before heading to the studio to ensure you feel energized and comfortable. Avoid foods that might cause bloating, like beans or too much dairy, and stick to easy-to-digest options.



4. Wear Clothing You Feel Comfortable In

When you’re getting ready for a newborn or family session, comfort is everything. Choose outfits that fit well and feel good on you, nothing too tight or overly loose. The more comfortable you are, the more natural your photos will look.

Solid colours tend to photograph best since they keep the focus on you and your family rather than busy patterns. Neutrals like white, soft pastels, and earthy tones work especially well and pair beautifully with the soft, timeless feel of newborn sessions.

5. Groom Your Hair

For that polished yet natural look, take the time to blow-dry your hair or style it in a way that feels true to you. You don’t need to go for an extravagant hairstyle—just something that’s well-groomed and framed beautifully around your face. If you prefer natural waves or curls, go ahead! A quick touch-up before the session ensures that your hair looks great in the photos without distracting flyaways.



6. Shower and Wash Your Children’s Hair

A quick shower or bath before your session goes a long way, for both you and your kids. Clean, freshly washed hair always photographs best, so I recommend washing your children’s hair the night before. It helps them feel fresh and comfortable, and their hair will look soft and shiny in photos.

For newborns, a gentle wipe down or bath is more than enough. For toddlers and older kids, a quick comb through or light blow dry will help keep everything looking neat and tidy for the session.

7. Prepare Your Hands for Close-Ups

Hands are often featured in newborn photography, from those tender moments of holding your baby to those intimate close-up shots of your newborn’s hand wrapped around your finger. To ensure your hands look their best, take a few minutes to prep them.

• Exfoliate: Smooth and soft hands make a huge difference in photos. Gently exfoliate your hands with a scrub to remove dead skin, followed by a hydrating hand cream.
• Nails: Clean off any old nail polish and give your nails a fresh coat if desired. Light, neutral tones like nude or soft pinks work well in photos and won’t distract from the natural beauty of the moment.

If you prefer to leave your nails natural, just make sure they’re clean and well-maintained.

8. Prepare Your Skin

Flawless, glowing skin is always in style for photos, and with just a little extra care, you can achieve that fresh, dewy look for your shoot. Start with exfoliation to slough off any dead skin cells, followed by a rich moisturizer to hydrate and soften your skin. This step ensures that your skin looks smooth and luminous, even under the bright lights of the photoshoot.

If you wear makeup, consider a light, natural look that enhances your features rather than masking them. A little bit of foundation or concealer can go a long way in evening out your skin tone. Just be sure to go for products that won’t clog your pores or look heavy on your skin.

9. Final Adjustments: Look Over Yourself and Your Children

Before you head to your photoshoot, take a moment for final checks and adjustments to ensure everything looks just right. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Empty pockets: Bulky keys, phones, and other items can create awkward bulges and distract from the overall look. Make sure everyone’s pockets are empty before you go.
• Straighten clothes and hair: A quick look in the mirror can help you adjust any wrinkles in your clothes or stray hairs that need to be smoothed down.
• Use a lint roller: Run a lint roller over your clothes to remove any stray hairs or dust that might show up in photos.
• Clean your children’s faces and noses: A quick wipe of your child’s face and nose will help them look fresh and avoid any distracting marks. You don’t want to miss those adorable expressions because of something as simple as a runny nose!

Taking a few minutes for these small details can make a big difference and help ensure your photos come out looking perfect.

10. Relax and Enjoy the Moment

Finally, one of the best ways to look beautiful in photos is to relax and enjoy the experience. Your photographer will guide you through the session and help you feel comfortable, so trust the process and focus on the love and joy you share with your family. Authentic smiles, real emotions, and candid moments are what make newborn and family photos truly unforgettable.

Conclusion

Preparing for a newborn or family photoshoot doesn't have to be stressful. By following these simple tips, you’ll be photo-ready and feeling confident when it’s time to capture those sweet moments. From getting enough rest to prepping your skin and hands, every little detail will help create beautiful memories that you’ll treasure for a lifetime.

I can't wait to help you celebrate this special time with a photoshoot that you'll remember forever. If you're ready to book your session, reach out to me today, and let's create magic together!

YOUR NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION WITH ELIZABETH LANG PHOTOGRAPHY

by: Elizabeth Lang Photography Surrey Newborn Photographer.

Updated April 2026.