The Stress-Free Way to Do Newborn Photos
Doing the Least: A Stress-Free Newborn Session
Does the idea of getting dressed & looking “photo ready” right after having a baby – make you want to run away or hide? If so, this blog is for you.
And it’s not what you think.
I’m a Nashville newborn photographer of 10+ years and I will NOT be trying to convince you to dress up for pretty pictures.
This blog is for the mom who is ready to prioritize her rest beyond what cultural norms show us.
This blog is about how we can do the most with the least effort.
Let’s be honest: not everyone is ready (or willing or interested) in the “standard glam newborn session” two weeks after giving birth.
For some moms, that sounds lovely.
For others… absolutely not.
And here’s the thing — both are okay.
I offer the more styled, romantic newborn sessions too. They’re beautiful. They’re timeless. They’re popular for a reason.
But there is another option.
A quieter option, most people don’t even realize exists.
The Not-So-Popular (But Deeply Loved):
“Doing the Least, Stress Free” Newborn Session
This approach is for the moms who are:
- still healing
- riding the hormone rollercoaster
- low on energy
- not interested in “performing motherhood”
- craving something real instead of polished
Motherhood and newborn photography often romanticize this season — and that can be beautiful.
But sometimes the romance doesn’t match the reality yet.
This type of session honors that.
Keeping It Small (On Purpose)
If the idea of a newborn session with siblings & partners makes your nervous system say absolutely not, you’re allowed to listen to that.
Newborn sessions are allowed to be just baby & you!
If your body relaxes at the idea of that – listen to it!
Partners and siblings can always join later for milestone sessions — when sleep has returned and healing has progressed.
This isn’t about excluding anyone.
It’s about choosing what feels supportive right now.
Document this season in a way that feels aligned with what your body desires.
Slowness, quiet, gentleness & hibernation – these are beautiful nourishing things for you AND your baby.
What to Wear (Spoiler: Comfort Wins)
This is not the session for anything uncomfortable or “holding your stomach in.”
Think:
- oversized button-ups
- soft robes & big cozy cardigans
- lounge sets
- pajamas you already love
If you can comfortably feed, snuggle, or sway with your baby — you’re dressed perfectly.
Trusting Postpartum Intuition
This particular mama (pictures below) has three other children and a husband who will absolutely be part of future milestone photos. (We are already planning a 6 month & 1 year session!)
BUT for her newborn session, she chose rest over responsibility.
Bonding over coordinating.
Real over polished.
And that choice was powerful.
How These Sessions Actually Look
I come to your home with a small, simple studio setup just for baby. (Or you come to my studio IF leaving your house sounds rejuvenating.)
I photograph tiny details — fingers, lashes, curls.
And when baby needs to eat, be soothed, or held?
That becomes the session.
I photograph you doing exactly what you’re already doing:
Caring for your baby.
Nothing staged.
Nothing rushed.
Nothing forced.
The beauty is already there — my job is just to notice it.
The Only Thing You Really Need
You do not need the perfect house, the perfect plan, or even the energy to get your hair & makeup done.
All you need is: trust, flexibility, & self-permission to just slow down and be with your baby.
You just get to be with your baby AND that will be enough.
I’ll handle finding the beauty in the everyday.
👉 [Contact me here to inquire about a newborn session]
📌 [Follow along on Pinterest for newborn photo inspiration]
@sarahsidwellphotography
