a swaddled newborn sleeps in a basket surrounded by peach flowers

Every newborn is different, and no two sessions look the same. Some babies drift off within minutes of arriving. Others need a bit more time, a bit more patience, and a few tricks I’ve gathered over the years of working with newborns in the studio.

These are five of the techniques I come back to again and again. Most of them are things you can try at home too.

Swaddling

Swaddling is usually the first thing I try. That snug, contained feeling mimics the womb and helps reduce the startle reflex, which is one of the main things that jolts newborns awake just as they’re drifting off. It’s a gentle way to let baby know they’re safe and held, right from the start of the session. The wrap doesn’t need to be tight, just firm enough to feel secure.

White Noise and Heartbeat Rhythms

There’s a common idea that newborns need quiet to sleep, but the womb is actually quite a noisy place. Your baby spent months listening to the sounds of your body, blood flow, digestion, heartbeat and all. So complete silence can actually feel unfamiliar. In the studio I use a combination of white noise and gentle heartbeat sounds to recreate that soft background rhythm. It helps baby feel at home in a new environment.

Mum’s Scent

Newborns have a remarkably strong sense of smell, and scent is one of the most direct routes to comfort for them. I always ask parents to bring a muslin that mum has worn or slept with. Having something that smells familiar nearby can help settle a fussy baby very quickly. It’s a small thing that makes a real difference.

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guide to baby soothing techniques

Left-Side Positioning

This one is less well known, but it’s something I reach for when a baby has just been fed and starts fussing. I’ll gently lay them on their left side. It isn’t random. The stomach curves to the left, so this position supports digestion and can ease reflux. A tiny adjustment in position can sometimes be all it takes to help them feel comfortable enough to settle.

Bum Patting

Bum patting is backed by biology, which I love. In the womb, a baby’s bottom rests close to mum’s diaphragm. Every breath mum takes creates a gentle, rhythmic pressure that baby grows used to over months. Gently patting their bum during a session recreates that familiar sensation. For a lot of babies, it’s immediately calming, because it feels like somewhere they’ve been before.

If you’re in the middle of a tricky stretch at home, any of these are worth a try. And if you’re wondering how a newborn session actually works in the studio, you’re very welcome to have a look at my newborn photography page or get in touch.

Tiny Humans, Big Facts – Want Some More?

Tiny Humans, Big Facts is a growing collection of bitesize blog posts packed with fascinating insights about pregnancy, newborns, and early development. Whether you’re expecting, just starting out, or simply curious about the remarkable things babies do, there’s always something new to discover.

Newborn Photography in East Grinstead

Newborn photo shoots are best when your baby is between 5 and 10 days old. This is when they’re at their sleepiest and curliest, perfect for capturing those beautifully calm and natural images. I recommend booking while you’re still pregnant so we can set a provisional date and adjust once your baby arrives.

Your session takes place in my warm, cosy studio in Crawley Down, designed with your baby’s comfort in mind. Sessions are relaxed and unrushed, and include three digital images of your choice for £95. There’s no sales session, just a private online gallery where you can view and choose your favourites in your own time.