11 Best Newborn Photography Poses (Shot List Included!)

Newborn photography poses don’t have to be stiff setups or overly staged scenes in a studio. As a documentary-style Newborn Photographer, I believe the most meaningful images come from natural moments—those quiet snuggles, sleepy stretches, and the gentle way your baby curls into your arms. This approach focuses less on perfection and more on real moments, capturing your little one just as they are in those fleeting first days.

In this article, I’ll walk you through some beautiful, relaxed poses that feel real and reflect your family’s unique connection.

Table of Contents

• My 11 Favorite Newborn Photography Poses that Every Parent Will Love
  • 1. Family Photo With The New Baby
  • 2. Portrait Of Baby
  • 3. Alone Time With Mama (Or Parent A)
  • 4. Alone time with Dad (Or Parent B)
  • 5. With Older Sibling(s)
  • 6. Breastfeeding Or Bottle-feeding
  • 7. Down To The Diaper
  • 8. Baby In Crib Or Bassinet
  • 9. Baby Details
  • 10. Just The Parents
  • 11. With Your Tribe
• What Is The Best Age To Photograph A Newborn Baby?
• How To Safely Pose Newborn Babies For Photos
• 5 Tips for Posing Newborn Babies
• Newborn Photography Poses

My 11 Favorite Newborn Photography Poses that Every Parent Will Love

Though I don’t actually pose babies, in the sense that I don’t reposition their bodies, prop them up artificially, or use accessories, I do have my favorite go-to newborn photography poses to provide parents with a wide variety if images.

Capturing natural moments with very little direction leads to the most memorable photos in the long run. It creates context for your images – what did your home look like, how did you and your partner like to hold your baby, how did you interact with each other…? Those details are going to make the images feel uniquely yours.

1. Family Photo With The New Baby

Snuggle together and take in your new baby! Every family fits together in a slightly different way, depending on the parents’ height, how cuddly you naturally are, whether you have other children or pets, and how your baby likes being held. This is one of those newborn photography poses that should feel totally unique to your family.

2. Portrait Of Baby

Their little face will change so quickly as they grow, so make sure you capture a good close-up portrait of what they looked like when they were first born.

3. Alone Time With Mama (Or Parent A)

Document those delicious cuddles, when you still can’t believe they’re here.

4. Alone time with Dad (Or Parent B)

Enjoy a few minutes, just the two of you.

5. With Older Sibling(s)

Sometimes it’s love at first sight, sometimes it takes a little longer. Welcoming a new baby is a huge transition for a child. Regardless of the timeline, their connection is worth documenting. These photos may or may not include a parent depending on the age and temperament of the older sibling.

6. Breastfeeding Or Bottle-feeding

Whether you are nursing or bottle-feeding, it’s a great opportunity to bond with your baby.

7. Down To The Diaper

Your baby will change so much over the first few weeks. Make sure to capture their little bodies at this stage!

8. Baby In Crib Or Bassinet

The crib gives a great sense of scale. You can even set yourself up for milestone photos with this angle!

9. Baby Details

Tiny hands, tiny feet, tiny head, swirly hair… All the little things that will grow so quickly!

10. Just The Parents

Take a moment to reconnect with your partner and reflect on what you’ve accomplished together.

11. With Your Tribe

If you or your partner are lucky to have parents who are around, a sibling, or a best friend who will be very present in your child’s life, make sure to document them with your baby.

What Is The Best Age To Photograph A Newborn Baby?

Newborn babies grow insanely quickly! In just a few weeks, their tiny features might look totally different, and their sleepy demeanor will transform into alertness and curiosity.

When it comes to picking the best time for newborn photos, there are really two timeframes to choose from: 1-2 weeks old vs 3-12 weeks old. There is no right or wrong answer. It’s really a matter of personal preference.

Check out my article, “When Is The Best Time For Newborn Photos,” where I’ll walk you through the ideal timing for newborn photography, what to consider when planning your session, and the benefits of in-home photography.

How To Safely Pose Newborn Babies For Photos

How to safely pose newborn babies for photos is one of the most important things for parents to understand when planning a session. When it comes to newborn photography poses, your baby’s comfort and well-being always come first.

In a documentary-style session, we follow your baby’s natural cues—there’s no forcing them into uncomfortable positions for the sake of the photos. Instead, we gently guide them into cozy, familiar poses they naturally settle into, like being cradled in your arms or snuggled up on your chest.

By creating a relaxed and comfortable environment, you can interact amongst yourselves as you naturally would, creating photos that really feel like you. The most powerful images of your family will be the ones that capture moments of real love and connection.

With any kind of newborn photos, safety means supporting their delicate neck and limbs at all times, keeping them comfortable, and never pushing beyond what feels right for them.

5 Tips for Posing Newborn Babies

Here are some tips for posing newborn babies that will help create beautiful, natural photos while keeping your little one safe and comfortable.

Let your baby lead – Some of the most heartfelt photos come from simply observing your baby’s natural movements and responses to your touch or voice.

Keep the room warm – A cozy environment helps your baby stay calm and sleepy, which makes it easier to settle into gentle newborn photography poses.

Feed your baby beforehand – A full belly usually means a content, drowsy baby who’s more cooperative during the session.

Use swaddling for comfort – Wrapping your baby snugly can help them feel secure and relaxed, perfect for capturing peaceful, natural moments.

Support their head and neck – Always ensure your baby’s delicate body is fully supported, whether in your arms or on a soft surface.

Newborn Photography Poses

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Marjorie Cohen is a Los Angeles Newborn Photographer offering at-home sessions to families in LA County. Marjorie works with parents who want relaxed and natural photos with their children. Follow along in Instagram and Pinterest for her latest work!