What to Expect at Your Newborn Studio Session in Gilmer, Texas — Serving Northeast Texas Families

Congratulations on your new little one! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about your in-studio newborn session at New Joy Photography in Gilmer, Texas. My goal is to make the experience calm, enjoyable, and memorable from start to finish.

Before Your Session: Scheduling and Preparation

When to book The best time for newborn sessions is between 6 and 14 days old, when babies are sleepiest and easiest to pose. I recommend booking during your second trimester so we can reserve a spot around your due date. Once your baby arrives, we’ll confirm your exact session date and time.

If your baby arrives early, late, or needs extra time at home first, we’ll adjust as needed. Your baby’s comfort and safety always come first.

Pre-session details The day before your session, I’ll reach out with a few reminders and simple tips, such as when to feed your baby and what to bring. It can help to keep your baby gently awake for a little while before you arrive, so they sleep more soundly once we begin.

The Studio Experience

A calm, cozy space When you arrive, the studio will be comfortably warm to help your baby stay relaxed and sleepy. Soft lighting, gentle music, and a quiet environment create a soothing atmosphere for both parents and baby.

Session length Mini Sessions typically last 1-2 hours. Full newborn sessions average three to four hours, giving us plenty of time for feeding, soothing, diaper changes, and posing. We move at your baby’s pace, allowing for breaks whenever needed. If additional young children will be included it may be best to have another family member bring them so they can leave when finished with their portraits. It can be very boring for little ones waiting on the baby portraits.

Session flow Here’s a general idea of what to expect once you arrive for a Full Newborn Session:

Stage	What Happens
Getting settled	You’ll have a few minutes to get comfortable while I get baby acclimated to the studio.
Feeding and soothing	If needed, we’ll take time to feed or comfort baby before starting.
Posing bag and prop images	I’ll move through a variety of setups, from simple wraps to creative prop poses. I typically start with the posing bag then move to props and end with family photos unless there are younger siblings in which case we may start with siblings/family. I may ask an adult to assist me from time to time with certain poses or to stand by baby if I need to move around the studio.
Family and sibling images	Once we finish posing bag and props, we’ll include parents and siblings for those heart-warming family moments.
Session end	Take your time to feed, change, or dress your baby.

Every pose is baby-led. If something doesn’t feel comfortable for your baby, we adjust or skip it entirely. Safety is always my top priority. There are certain poses I choose not to do out of an abundance of caution.

What to Bring

Essentials for baby and parents

• Extra diapers and wipes

• Bottles, breast pump, or formula (whichever you use)

• Wear or bring your clothes if taking family portraits

• Pacifier, if baby takes one

• Burp cloths

• Snacks and water for parents/siblings
  

What you don’t need to bring I provide a full range of wraps, outfits, blankets, props, and accessories for baby, so you don’t need to worry about packing much. If you have something special, you'd like to include please feel free to do so and I will do my best to incorporate it.

Clothing for parents Neutral tones and simple textures photograph beautifully. Soft colors like cream, beige, blue, white, gray, or browns are ideal. Avoid bright colors, patterns, or large logos. Layers are helpful since the studio stays warm for baby.

Before you arrive Dress baby in something easy to remove, like a zip-up or snap-front sleeper. Feed as you normally do and we'll assess on arrival if baby might need to eat.

During Your Session

Expect a relaxed pace. I’ll gently pose your baby and make small adjustments to achieve each look while keeping them safe and comfortable. You’ll see me work patiently, with plenty of time for breaks and cuddles. I wear a mask and hand sanitize for all my newborn sessions.

Parents are welcome to watch, rest, or even take a short nap while I work. I’ll guide you when it’s time for family or sibling photos, and I’ll always keep the session peaceful and positive.

After the Session

Within 30 days (usually sooner) you'll receive your fully edited gallery to choose your favorite images. You'll be able to download the number of images specified for your package. I share a sneak peek within a few days of your session as well.

From there, you can order professional prints, wall art, and albums if desired. I can guide you through options that best fit your home and style.

Final Thoughts

Every baby is unique, and sessions flow best when we follow their lead. Some babies sleep deeply the entire time, while others need extra cuddles or feeding breaks. That’s completely normal.

The most important thing you can do is relax and trust the process. I’ll handle the details so you can simply enjoy watching your baby’s first portraits come to life.