Props are completely optional at a newborn session. Some families want nothing extra at all. Others love the idea of something personal. Both are fine, and here’s how to think it through.

A newborn baby tucked up on their tummy dressed as a ladybird

How to think about props for your newborn session, from what’s available in the studio to bringing something from home.

What’s available at the studio

My prop collection covers quite a range: soft blankets and wraps in neutral and pastel tones, wooden bowls, baskets and beds, floral elements, lace, hats, bonnets, and headbands. You’ll get to browse through everything on your options form the day before your session and choose what appeals to you. Everything is set up and ready when you arrive so we can get started straight away.

Bringing something from home

Personal items can add something to a session that studio props simply can’t. A favourite soft toy, a knitted blanket from a grandparent, a handmade outfit, something from your own childhood. These tend to become the images families treasure most over time because they mean something specific to them.

Some parents bring things related to their interests too, a small instrument, a book, a bit of sports memorabilia. I can usually find a way to work things in. The only thing I’ve genuinely failed on was a giant rubber duck that a client brought along once, but that’s a whole other story. If you’re not sure whether something will work, just bring it and we’ll figure it out on the day.

A baby swaddled in teal is photographed in a newborn photo shoot

Keeping props safe

Everything in my studio prop collection is checked for safety before every session, stable, smooth, free of sharp edges, and padded out properly before your baby goes anywhere near it. When a prop involves your baby being off the ground, there’s always a parent just out of shot as backup.

If you’re bringing your own items, keep them small, soft, and lightweight. Large or hard props can be tricky to incorporate safely and naturally, so smaller is usually better.

Styling your session

If you have a particular look in mind, a rustic natural feel with wooden props and soft greens, something softer and more feminine with lace and delicate pinks, or a clean minimal approach with simple swaddles and neutral tones, let me know when you fill in your options form and I’ll set up accordingly.

Props should sit around your baby, not compete with them. The best newborn images always keep your baby at the centre.

Everything You Need to Know About Newborn Photography

There’s a lot to think about when you’re expecting a newborn session. Whether you’re wondering when to book, how to prepare, or what to expect on the day, I’ve put together a collection of guides to answer the questions I hear most. From safety to siblings to choosing props, everything you need is here. And if you can’t find what you’re looking for, just get in touch.

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.