7 Tips for Preparing Your Toddler for a Sibling’s In-Home Newborn Session - in Surprise, AZ.

Melissa Rasmussen
Aug 12
3 min read

Updated: Aug 14

Smiling child in denim hugs a swaddled sleeping baby on a fluffy white surface. Calm and joyful mood at an in-home newborn session in Surprise, AZ. Text: "Melissa Renae Photography".

A few weeks ago, I walked into a home in Surprise, AZ, ready to photograph a sweet newborn and his proud big brother. The toddler greeted me at the door wearing… a Batman cape, swim goggles, and mismatched socks. He announced, “I’m the superhero today. You can take pictures of me... and maybe the baby if he’s nice.”

Honestly? I loved him instantly.

This is exactly why I adore being a newborn photographer—every session is a little bit unpredictable, a lot of fun, and always full of personality.

If you’ve ever tried to get a toddler to pose for a picture, you already know—this is not a “just smile for the camera” situation. It’s more like “wrangle a squirrel while balancing a cupcake on your head.”

Now… add a brand-new baby to the mix, and it can get... interesting.

As a newborn photographer in Surprise, AZ who has seen just about every toddler mood in existence (sometimes all in one session), I’m here to assure you—beautiful sibling photos are possible. You just need a little preparation, a whole lot of patience, and someone who’s genuinely good with kids.

Spoiler: that’s me!

Here’s how to make sure your toddler feels happy, included, and maybe even excited about being part of your newborn session.

Toddler in blue outfit smiles beside a sleeping baby wrapped in green, resting in a basket at their in-home newborn session in Surprise, AZ. Soft colors, wooden floor background.

1. Make It All About Them: Let Your Toddler Be the Star

Toddlers love being the center of attention—so let’s give it to them. Hype up their “big sibling” title like it’s the world’s coolest job. Let them choose a special outfit or bring a favorite toy to “show me.” The more important they feel, the more likely they’ll shine for the camera.

Young girl gently touches a sleeping baby wrapped in a white blanket, lying in a basket. Soft lighting and neutral background. Peaceful mood at their in home newborn session in Surprise, AZ.

2. Practice at Home: Play “Photographer”

Kids love games, so turn practice into playtime. Let them “photograph” their stuffed animals or dolls, then take turns posing. When I arrive for your in-home newborn session in Surprise, AZ, they’ll be thinking, “Oh, I’ve done this before—it’s fun!” instead of “Stranger danger!”

3. Talk About the Baby Like They’re a Celebrity

Pull out your toddler’s baby photos and tell them, “You used to be this tiny!” Let them feel the excitement about welcoming someone new. Framing it like an exclusive VIP meet-and-greet makes the baby (and the session) something to look forward to.

4. Keep Things Low-Key: Go with the Flow

Toddlers are unpredictable—sometimes they’ll happily pose, other times they’ll decide the couch is a trampoline. That’s okay! We’ll roll with it. If they need a break, I’ll capture some solo baby photos until they’re ready. Flexibility is key to keeping the session stress-free.

5. Have Snacks and Breaks: A Happy Toddler = Happy Photos

A hangry toddler is a no-go. Have favorite snacks ready to go to keep spirits high. We can pause for a cracker break or some fruit snacks whenever needed. Bonus: snacks double as bribes.

(Shhh… I won’t tell.)

Four children laughing on a fluffy white rug, holding small plush animals at their in-home newborn session in Surprise, AZ. Three look joyful, one covers eyes with a stuffed star.

Five children lying on a white fur rug, smiling. A newborn in a white blanket is cradled in the center, creating a warm, loving scene at their in-home newborn session in Surprise, AZ .

6. Incorporate Favorite Toys or Activities: Make It Fun

If your toddler loves reading, building block towers, or cuddling a stuffed giraffe, let’s capture it. These little touches make the photos more personal and give your toddler something familiar to focus on—perfect for genuine smiles.

<----- these two photos are a great example of keeping things fun! The first one was of us "practicing" together before we put the newborn (and the no-need-to-practice teen brother) into the final shot.

7. Celebrate the End: Reward their Work!

When the session is over, celebrate their hard work with a small reward—a trip to the park, a favorite snack, or extra playtime. Positive reinforcement helps toddlers remember the experience as fun, making future photo sessions easier too!

Why Your Photographer Matters

If you’re searching for a newborn photographer in Surprise, AZ who’s patient, creative, and truly good with kids, I’m your person. My in-home newborn sessions are designed to keep toddlers relaxed, parents comfortable, and memories beautifully preserved—without the stress.

Ready to book your Surprise, AZ in-home newborn session (or anywhere in the Phoenix Valley!)? Let’s create timeless photos of your new baby and their proud big sibling(s). Fill out this form and let’s make some stress-free, joy-filled memories together!

Looking for more tips for your newborn session? Check out this post!