Welcoming a new baby into the world is a fabulous occasion, and a newborn photography session is the perfect way to create lasting memories of this precious time.
Here at Ellie J Photography, I have always welcomed the inclusion of older siblings in both my maternity and newborn sessions, and this blog gives my five main reasons why.
As a Coventry newborn photographer, I adore creating images that capture not only the beginning of a new baby’s life, but also the first days of that bond between siblings that will last a lifetime.
1. Reassuring Siblings: Showing Them Their Important Role.
Welcoming a new baby is an exciting and joyful time, but for a young child, it can also bring challenges. Adjusting to a new sibling may sometimes lead to feelings of jealousy, as they go from being the sole focus of mum and dad's attention to sharing it with a tiny, demanding newborn. Including older children inthe photoshoot can help reassure them of their special place in the family. I always make a point to greet older siblings first when they arrive at my studio, ensuring they feel seen and valued. I also love getting them involved as my little “helpers” during the session, reinforcing their important role as the big brother or sister.
This inclusion doesn’t have to begin with the newborn session alone! Siblings are always welcome at my maternity sessions too. Including them ensures they feel connected to the baby’s journey right from the start. A hug for mum’s bump or a playful moment during the session beautifully showcases the anticipation of becoming an older sibling.
2. Encouraging a Strong Sibling Bond
A newborn photography session offers a chance for the older child to gently hold, cuddle, or interact with their baby sibling. These shared moments, beautifully photographed, can create a touching representation of their bond growing from day one.
In the same way, including siblings in maternity sessions celebrates their growing role in the family. It helps older children feel valued, fostering an emotional connection with their new brother or sister before they even arrive.
3. Creating Important Memories
Years from now, your children will look back at these images as a visual story of their family beginning to grow. Including siblings ensures the memory of their role in those early days isn’t overlooked. By welcoming them into both maternity and newborn sessions, you create a beautifully cohesive set of images that tell a meaningful story.
Just to add - when I talk about siblings, let’s not forget our furry, four-legged family members! I have many years of experience safely including dogs in newborn photography and know from experience how much our children value having photos of our pets to look back on in future years.
4. Making the Session Fun and Inclusive
Newborn photography doesn’t have to be just about the baby! When siblings are part of the shoot, it creates an opportunity to add some fun and liveliness to the session. From sweet
cuddles to playful giggles, sibling photos allow for spontaneous, joyful moments that parents will cherish.
At maternity sessions, we keep the same relaxed atmosphere. It’s a perfect time to let your older child join in, whether it’s talking to the baby bump, hugging mum, or sharing their excitement. And if your furry sibling wants to join the maternity shoot fun they are again, more than welcome!
5. Creating a Complete Family Portrait
Your family is one unit, and your photos should reflect that. Including everyone, from parents to older siblings (two and four legged!) creates a complete story of this beautiful chapter in your lives.
By incorporating siblings, both human and furry, into your maternity and newborn photography, we capture a seamless narrative. These photos will become wonderful heirlooms for future generations, representing your family's journey and the bond that ties you all together.
Including siblings in your newborn photography sessions is more than just a photo opportunity; it’s a way to build connections, reassure older children (and pets!) of their significance, and create lasting memories of this special time. Starting the journey with maternity photos ensures that everyone, two-legged and four-legged, feels included every step of the way, fostering excitement and connection even before the baby arrives.
To finish, here are some older sibling outfit suggestions:
Choose clothes that are simple, comfortable, and complimentary to what the rest of the family are wearing. Here are some tips to help you choose:
1. Keep It Neutral and Soft
Choose neutral or pastel colors (like whites, creams, soft blues, pinks, or greys), avoiding bold patterns or logos which can draw attention away from the main focus of the image, i.e. your children!
2. Comfort Is Key
The session might involve some sitting, lying down, or cuddling with their new sibling. Ensure their outfit is comfy and allows for movement without wrinkles or awkward bunching.
3. Coordinate
Outfits should coordinate. Choose complementary tones or textures that blend together. Let your photographer know in advance what colours you have chosen so that they can prepare suitable wrap colours for baby.
4. Keep It Simple
A classic dress, a simple shirt with trousers or leggings, or a cozy jumper can work beautifully. Plain clothing ensures the focus remains on your children’s connection, not their attire.
5. Barefoot or Neutral Shoes
In the studio, siblings often go barefoot for a relaxed, homey feel. If shoes are needed, opt for neutral styles.
6. Accessories Are Optional
For little girls, a delicate headband or bow can work nicely. For boys, skip the accessories unless it’s a subtle addition like suspenders that fit the aesthetic.
As an experienced newborn and family photographer in Coventry, Warwickshire, I specialise in creating relaxed, safe, and beautiful sessions where the whole family feels involved.
Interested in booking a maternity or newborn session? Let me help capture your family’s story, tail wags and all, in a way you’ll treasure for generations to come. You can contact me via my website here or on 07765 718415.
Thanks for reading!
