Swaddle for Newborn Sessions | San Antonio In-Home Newborn

A common question I receive when it comes to newborn sessions is whether or not to swaddle your baby. Honestly, I get it! As a mom with two girls of my own, the automatic “mom” response to, “what should my newborn wear?” is all the lace, cute dresses, and those adorable suspender outfits for baby boys! Those outfits are ADORABLE!! However, the photographer side of me usually suggests a different approach.

I can tell you from experience that those types of outfits usually include rough fabrics or multiple layers, which can cause babies to get overstimulated or even uncomfortable. Hats and bows can also cause this, which is why I am also careful about the accessories we include.

When a baby is overstimulated by their clothing or feels uncomfortable, it can cause the baby to not settle, and while I know we will always work through it and get good photos, I want your newborn session to feel calm, gentle, and enjoyable for everyone involved.

My number one priority during every lifestyle or studio newborn session is comfort and safety. A happy, content baby makes for a smoother session.

Why I recommend Swaddles for Newborn Sessions

In most situations I suggest swaddling your sweet baby. Swaddling helps babies feel secure and cozy, which in turn helps them to stay calm throughout our session together. However, just because your baby is swaddled doesn’t mean I won’t capture all those precious newborn features. Towards the end of newborn sessions, I like to loosen the swaddle to get all those sweet tiny details that change all too quickly, like their hands, feet, and belly buttons.

Now, if you have a cute outfit or one that is particularly meaningful, like one your mom saved for you to use, I absolutely want to photograph it! I recommend saving those outfits for the end of the session. That way if your baby does start to become unsettled or isn’t a fan of changing outfits, the session is almost over and there is no added stress for your little one.

Swaddled In-Home Newborn Photos

For Juliette’s sweet in-home Newborn session in San Antonio, we wrapped her in a soft, neutral cream blanket that went beautifully with the family’s outfits and their home setting. She slept peacefully throughout most of the session as she was cozy and content.

Towards the end of the session, I loosened the swaddle and captured all those tiny, precious newborn features. It’s the perfect way to end a session as babies naturally start to stir.

This in-home lifestyle newborn session was especially meaningful, because I’ve had the honor of documenting this family through many life milestones. First by capturing older sister, Josephine’s natural light in-home newborn session. Then, once mom was pregnant with Juliette, I documented their McNay Art Museum Maternity Session in San Antonio, TX. Being invited back into the lives of families to capture these milestones means the world to me. Thank you to this beautiful family for trusting me to tell their story!

Ready to Book your in-home newborn or family Session? I’d love to chat! Reach out today to get started!