Including Siblings in Studio Newborn Photos | Raleigh Photographer Tips
Your next baby is on the way and you’re planning newborn photos in Raleigh. One question I hear often from parents planning a newborn session is, “How does it work when we include older siblings?”
The answer is: gently, safely, and with a lot of flexibility.
Every child is different — especially toddlers — and my approach is always baby-led and safety-first, while still creating sweet, meaningful images that feel natural and unforced.
Keeping Baby Safe Comes First
When toddlers are involved, safety is always the top priority. Newborns don’t yet have neck control, and toddlers are easily distracted. Even the most well-intentioned sibling can accidentally move too quickly and could put baby in harms way.
For that reason, I never ask a toddler to fully support or control the baby. Parents are always close by, supporting baby’s head and body, while allowing the toddler to have minimal control. This keeps everyone safe while still creating those tender sibling moments.
Creative Ways to Include Toddlers Without Holding Baby
Not every sibling needs to hold the baby to be included. In fact, some of my favorite images happen when toddlers are simply interacting with their new sibling.
I often use my raised wicker bassinet, which allows siblings to look at the baby without holding them. This is a great option for younger toddlers or siblings who are curious but hesitant.
If a toddler is unsure about touching the baby, I might turn it into a game — sometimes I’ll hide a few Cheerios in the bassinet and ask them to help “find” them. This keeps things light, fun, and pressure-free, while still capturing genuine expressions.
Gentle Interaction Creates the Sweetest Moments
Another favorite setup is having a toddler sit on the bean bag, surrounded by mom or dad, while one parent gently presents the baby to them. This keeps baby fully supported and allows the toddler to engage safely.
From there, we can capture the sweetest interactions:
Counting baby’s toes
Gently tickling baby’s feet
Soft touches on baby’s hands
And my personal favorite — toddlers “booping” baby’s nose
These moments are always natural, never forced, and often become parents’ favorite images from the session.
Older Siblings Who Can Hold Baby
If the sibling is older and able to hold the baby confidently and safely, I’ll guide them into poses similar to what I do with parents. Even then, I stay close and make sure baby is fully supported the entire time.
A Calm, Stress-Free Experience
There’s no expectation for siblings to perform or behave a certain way. We follow their lead, take breaks when needed, and keep the experience relaxed and positive. Some siblings want to help right away, others warm up slowly — both are completely normal. I do have toys & snacks in the studio which are always a toddler favorite.
If you’d like to learn more about how a newborn session flows, you can read what to expect at your newborn session here, or reach out if you have specific questions about including siblings in your newborn photography session in Raleigh.
