How to Include Siblings in Your Essex Newborn Photography Session
- Zee Gunchev
- Mar 16
- 4 min read
Welcoming a new baby into the family is one of the most beautiful and special moments in life—not just for parents but for older siblings too. It’s the start of a lifelong bond, a relationship full of laughter, adventures, and the sweetest sibling moments. As an Essex newborn photographer, I love capturing those first interactions between new brothers and sisters—the gentle snuggles, the curious little fingers reaching out, and those first whispered “I love you’s”.
If you’re wondering how to make your newborn session extra special by including your older child, here are some heartfelt tips to ensure a smooth, joyful experience filled with love.
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Help Older Siblings Feel Special and Included
Bringing a new baby into the family is a big change, and helping older siblings feel included can make all the difference. Before your session, talk to them about how exciting it will be to have pictures taken with their new baby brother or sister. Let them know how important their role is—not just in the photos, but in their little sibling’s life.
One of my favorite ways to make siblings feel extra special is to talk about how excited I am to take photos of them as a family and how wonderful it will be to have those memories displayed in your home. Walking around together and asking them where they think a photo of them and their new baby sibling should go—maybe in the living room, by their bed, or even on the fridge—helps them feel connected and included in the process. It’s such a sweet way to let them know their bond with their sibling is something worth celebrating and cherishing forever.
Sometimes, showing them a few examples of sibling portraits can help them feel excited and ready. And if they’re old enough, letting them pick out a special stuffed animal or toy to bring can give them a little extra comfort and confidence.
Keep the Session Playful and Stress Free
Little ones have big personalities, and their energy can bring so much joy to a session! Rather than asking them to sit perfectly still (which we all know isn’t their strong suit!), I love to embrace natural, playful moments—tickling baby’s toes, cuddling up close, or simply gazing at them in wonder.
By keeping things lighthearted, we create genuine interactions that feel natural and full of love. Some of my favorite sibling photos are the ones where they burst into giggles or give their baby sibling an unexpected kiss on the cheek.
Capture Those Heartwarming Sibling Moments First
Older siblings, especially toddlers, have short attention spans—and that’s completely okay! To make sure we capture those beautiful sibling moments while they’re still excited and engaged, I always start with sibling photos at the very beginning of your Essex newborn photography session.
Once we’ve captured their sweet hugs and smiles, they can take a little break, play, or enjoy a snack while we focus on baby’s individual portraits or photos. This keeps the experience fun and stress-free for everyone.
Let Their Unique Personalities Shine Through
Some siblings are over-the-moon excited about their new baby and want to be hands-on, while others are a little more reserved, still getting used to the idea of a tiny new family member. Both reactions are completely normal, and no matter how your child responds, we’ll capture their relationship in a way that feels true to them.
If they want to snuggle up close, perfect. If they’re happier sitting next to baby with a shy little smile, that’s just as precious. The best sibling photos are the ones that reflect who they are in this special season of life.
Choose Comfortable, Timeless Outfits That Complement Each Other
When it comes to choosing outfits, soft and neutral tones always photograph beautifully and keep the focus on your children’s connection. The best outfits are ones that are cozy and comfortable—nothing too stiff, bold, or fussy.
I always recommend simple, timeless clothing that blends well with your newborn’s outfit. A soft knit sweater, a flowy dress, or a classic white tee can look beautiful while letting your child feel like themselves.
Embrace the Sweet, Unscripted Moments of Sibling Love
Some of the most touching sibling photos happen in the little in-between moments—the way they gently stroke baby’s hand or head, the way their face lights up when they get to hold their new little family member, or the way they instinctively reach out to hold them close.
I never rush or force moments because the most heartfelt ones happen naturally. Whether it’s a quiet, tender snuggle or a giggle-filled cuddle, these moments will be ones you’ll cherish forever.
Capturing Beautiful Family Memories with an Essex Newborn Photography Session
Including siblings in your newborn session is about more than just taking photos—it’s about capturing the start of a lifelong bond, the love that is already growing between them. These are the moments you’ll look back on years from now, remembering just how small they once were, how tiny their hands looked in each other’s, and how full of love your family felt in that moment.
If you're expecting a new addition and would love a relaxed, heartfelt Essex newborn photography experience that celebrates your growing family, I’d be honored to capture these precious memories for you. Get in touch today to book your session—I can’t wait to document this special season for you.
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Zee Gunchev is an Essex family and newborn photographer with years of experience in the lifestyle photography area. She focuses on capturing genuine moments in soft, dreamy tones and natural light to be savoured for years to come. Her timeless images and effortless style are chosen by many Essex families to document important milestones and life stages.
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