by Kristin Vacca | Sep 4, 2025 | Newborns
One of the most common questions I hear as a newborn photographer is: “Is my baby too old for newborn photos?” The short answer is: absolutely not!
While the early days of life are often thought of as the “ideal” time for newborn photography, the truth is that it’s never too late to capture your baby’s first memories.
As a master newborn photographer with over 15 years of experience, please allow me to share more with you below with real-life examples from my clients.
Sweet six week old newborn session in the studio
The Traditional “Newborn Window”
Most posed newborn photos, those sweet, curled-up, sleepy poses, are typically done within the first two weeks after birth. Babies during this time are still very flexible and spend much of the day sleeping, which makes it easier to gently pose them in wraps, baskets, or props.
But life with a new baby doesn’t always follow a timeline. Some families need extra time to recover after birth, adjust to a new routine, or simply catch their breath before scheduling a session. And that’s completely normal!
Black and white family portrait
When is it too late for newborn photos? It’s never too late!
What If You Missed That Two-Week Newborn Photography Window?
Here’s the good news: even if your baby is a little older, we can still create beautiful and meaningful photographs. Each stage of babyhood has its own charm, and as an experienced Newington, CT newborn photographer with 15+ years behind the camera, I know how to adapt sessions to fit your baby’s age and personality.
Some options include:
- Studio sessions with wrapped + lifestyle photos
Older babies may not curl up in the same way, but we can combine cozy wrapped shots with natural portraits to highlight their sweet expressions.
- Studio lifestyle sessions
Simple, candid moments with your baby dressed in a soft outfit can beautifully document your growing connection as a family.
- In-home newborn sessions
A relaxed and personal option, especially if you want to include your home, nursery, or even pets in the photos. These sessions allow us to capture your baby in their most natural environment.
Sweet six week old baby girl sleeps during her session
Newborn baby girl in a purple wrap
Real Families, Real Results
One recent family came to me when their baby girl was six weeks old. While it wasn’t during the “traditional” window, we created a stunning gallery that told their sweet family’s story perfectly. This 6-week-old session was the perfect blend of cozy newborn moments and heartfelt family portraits, and I absolutely love how their images came together.
Darling newborn baby girl wrapped in white
Why It’s Never Too Late
No matter your baby’s age, the most important part of a newborn session isn’t whether they’ll fit into a tiny wrap. It’s about documenting your family’s love, connection, and joy during this once-in-a-lifetime season.
Whether your baby is two weeks old, two months old, or even a little older, you deserve photos that tell your story. With professional experience, a variety of session types, and a focus on making families feel comfortable, I’ll ensure your memories are captured beautifully.
Sweet dreams
What If Your Baby Spent Time in the NICU?
For families with babies who needed extra care in the NICU, scheduling a newborn photo session in those first two weeks often isn’t possible, and that’s OK. Your priority was (and always should be) your baby’s health.
The good news? You haven’t “missed out.” Whether your baby comes home after a few weeks or a few months, we can still create beautiful portraits that celebrate this milestone.
NICU babies often arrive home a little smaller or with different needs than full-term babies, and I’ll work with you to ensure a safe, comfortable session. Depending on your baby’s age and personality, we might focus more on wrapped portraits, family lifestyle images, or in-home photos that showcase the joy of finally being together.
Every baby’s story is unique, and I’ll help you preserve this chapter with love and care.
Six week old baby girl is pretty in pink
Book Your Newborn Photos in Connecticut
If you’ve been wondering if it’s too late for newborn photos, it’s not. The best time to book is always now.
Based in Newington, CT, I photograph newborns, families, and children throughout the greater Hartford area. Together, we’ll create timeless portraits that your family will treasure for years to come.
Contact me today to schedule your newborn session and begin creating memories you’ll cherish forever.
by Kristin Vacca | Jan 22, 2025 | Babies, Cake Smash, Children, Milestone, Newborns
As a parent, I can confidently say that your child grows and changes right before your eyes. Each moment is precious, from their first steps to their quirky expressions and blossoming personalities. A portrait session is the perfect way to preserve these milestones. You’ll be able to look back on your child’s album or wall art and relive those special moments.
As a children and family portrait photographer in Newington, CT, I’m here to guide you through the process—whether you’re celebrating your child’s 1st, 2nd, 6th, or any year in between!
Investing in professional photography is a gift that you and your child will always treasure. Here’s your official children’s portrait session guide through the years.
Children’s Portrait Session Guide
Baby’s Milestones: Before the First Birthday
Documenting your baby’s milestones during their first year is one of the most meaningful ways to preserve their earliest memories. From the delicate features of the newborn stage to the first smiles and giggles at 3 months, the ability to sit up and explore the world at 6 months, and the joyful celebration of their first birthday, each milestone tells a beautiful chapter in their story.
These moments pass by in the blink of an eye, and having professional portraits ensures they’re captured in a timeless and tangible way. These photos not only help you remember how tiny they once were but also allow you to celebrate their growth and share these cherished memories with loved ones for generations to come.
Tips for the Session(s):
- Work with the same baby photographer for a cohesive look.
- Book your photographer in advance so you don’t have to worry about finding one last-minute.
- Consider participating in the session so you can actually be IN the photos with your baby.
Sweet newborn pose
The best newborn smile
This handsome lad is sitting up
I love this black-and-white image of mom and dad holding their baby boy
1 Year: Celebrating Baby’s First Birthday
Your baby’s first year is full of firsts—first smiles, first steps, and an endless stream of adorable moments. A 1-year-old portrait session focuses on the wonder of babyhood, capturing their wide-eyed curiosity, giggles, and emerging personality.
At this age, your child may still be crawling or just learning to walk. We’ll keep the session relaxed and fun, with lots of breaks and a lot of patience. The goal is to capture those natural, sweet moments—whether it’s them playing with their favorite toy or their first taste of cake at a cake smash session!
Tips for the Session:
- Bring along your baby’s favorite toy or blanket to help them feel comfortable.
- Dress them in something soft and simple—this is all about their expressions!
- Be prepared for some spontaneous giggles and wiggles
Sweet wintery first-year portrait
Hugs from mom during first-year portrait
Pink princess-themed cake smash photo session
2 Years: Full of Energy and Personality
At 2 years old, your child’s personality really starts to shine. They may be talking more, running around, and showing you a glimpse of their budding independence. These sessions are all about capturing their energy, their playful spirit, and those adorable moments of curiosity.
What to Expect: Expect a session full of movement! At this age, we’ll likely be chasing after your child, encouraging their natural curiosity. We’ll make sure to capture candid shots as well as posed ones.
Tips for the Session:
- Choose an outfit that allows them to move freely.
- Bring snacks or treats to keep them happy between shots.
- Be ready for silly faces and lots of giggles—these make for the best portraits!
This 2nd Birthday Paint Smash session was a blast
Cutest family
3 Years: The Fun and Feisty Stage
By age 3, your child is becoming more expressive and may have strong opinions about their outfit or what they want to do during the session! It’s a fun stage full of imaginative play, dramatic expressions, and a lot of personality.
What to Expect: Your 3-year-old will likely have their own ideas for how the session should go, so we’ll take a relaxed approach and allow them to be themselves. I’ll work with your child to make them feel comfortable, whether that means talking about their favorite activities or letting them run around for a bit before getting into the posed shots.
Tips for the Session:
- Let your child pick out their outfit, but make sure it’s comfortable for all the running around they’ll do!
- Incorporate props like a favorite book, toy, or a fun activity to keep them engaged.
- Have some fun ideas ready, like jumping, twirling, or playing with bubbles, to make the session enjoyable for your little one.
3rd year portrait for this cutie
3-year-old boy poses for his portrait
3rd birthday mermaid portrait session
Capturing this little mermaid’s 3rd birthday portraits
4-5 Years: Growing Confidence
By this stage, your child is likely growing more confident and excited to be in front of the camera. The session can include more posed moments, but there will still be plenty of playfulness and creativity. These sessions are wonderful for capturing your child’s growing individuality.
What to Expect: Expect a mix of candid and posed shots as your child feels more comfortable posing for photos. There may still be moments of shyness or goofiness, but that’s all part of their charm.
Tips for the Session:
- Keep the session light-hearted by encouraging your child to show off their favorite silly faces or dance moves.
- Consider a special family outfit or theme to reflect their growing interests and sense of style.
- Let them choose a special activity (like blowing bubbles or playing outside) to make the session feel like fun instead of work.
Happy 5th birthday to this delightful young lady
Celebrating her beautiful spirit and personality at her 5th birthday session
6+ Years: The School Years
As your child reaches 6 years old and beyond, they are officially in the school years. Watching your child blossom and beyond who they are meant to be is such a special gift.
These sessions allow for more formal portraits, as well as the chance to capture your child’s emerging interests, hobbies, and unique personality.
What to Expect: At this age, we’ll likely get a mix of posed and candid moments, with your child starting to develop their sense of style and self-awareness. Whether they’re into sports, books, or anything in between, we can tailor the session to reflect what makes them unique.
Tips for the Session:
- Incorporate their hobbies or favorite activities into the session.
- Encourage them to express themselves with fun, quirky poses or facial expressions.
- Let them feel involved in the planning—ask them about what they want to wear or bring to the session.
Beautiful 8-year-old portraits to capture her childhood
Sweet black and white image holding her favorite toy
Professionally documenting their childhood with precious portraits you’ll treasure forever
Printing Your Children’s Portraits
Printing your children’s photos is a beautiful way to preserve their fleeting moments in a tangible form. While digital images are convenient, there’s something truly special about displaying your child’s portrait in your home. Printed photos become part of your family’s story, bringing warmth and memories into your daily life.
Whether it’s a framed portrait on the wall, a custom photo album, or a collection of images in a beautiful folio box, physical prints allow you to enjoy and cherish these moments for years to come. Plus, there’s something magical about flipping through a photo album or seeing your child’s smile in a frame, making those memories even more meaningful.
Why Schedule a Children’s Portrait Session?
Each year brings new changes and developments in your child’s life. A professional children’s portrait session helps you preserve those fleeting moments in time, creating memories you’ll treasure forever. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone birthday or just want to capture your child’s personality, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
If you’re ready to schedule your child’s portrait session, feel free to reach out to me here. Let’s make memories together that will last a lifetime!
by Kristin Vacca | Nov 18, 2024 | Newborns
The newborn stage goes by way too fast. Capturing those first few days with a professional photography experience ensures you have beautiful memories to cherish forever!
As you research newborn photography options, you will find a big decision to make: whether to choose an at-home lifestyle or studio newborn photography. Both are great options, and you really can’t go wrong with either, but there are some things to consider with each setting.
As a professional Newington newborn photographer, I’m happy to share more about both so that you can decide which is best for your family.
Beautiful family portrait.
At-Home Lifestyle Newborn Photography
At-home sessions are all about capturing your new baby in the environment where they’re most comfortable—your home. This approach is perfect for parents who want a more relaxed, personalized experience that also reflects the family’s unique space and style.
Comfort and Convenience – With an at-home session, there’s no need to pack up and travel. I will come to you, making this option ideal for families with other small children or those who prefer staying cozy and settled at home.
The newborn baby boy is cozy in dad’s arms.
Natural Moments – At-home sessions focus on a mix of natural moments and simple, lifestyle-inspired portraits. Your baby might be cradled in your arms on the sofa, snuggled up in the nursery, or peacefully asleep in a family heirloom crib.
Comfortable at home during newborn session
Customized to Your Space – While at-home sessions require natural light, I can find the best spots for photos based on your home’s layout and lighting or even bring a light or two. Simple setups like soft blankets or a neutral background can keep the focus on your baby.
We’ll find the natural light in your home!
Personal Touch – Photos taken at home often include subtle elements of your life—like the nursery details you worked so hard on, favorite blankets, or meaningful items. These sessions feel intimate and are a wonderful way to document your life at this precious moment.
At-home newborn photography session.
Studio Newborn Photography
Studio sessions allow photographers to create stunning, controlled environments designed especially for newborn portraits. These sessions typically focus on more posed, artistic images of your baby and offer access to professional lighting, props, and backdrops.
No Cleaning Required – The last thing you should be doing is worrying about cleaning your house. A studio session means you can leave the cleaning and preparation to me. Just hop in the car and head to the studio; I’ll have everything ready. I’ll take care of all the clean up after the session, too!
The studio will be clean and ready for you.
Artistic Posing and Styling – In the studio, I’ll have everything set up to create beautiful, posed shots of your newborn. These might include classic curled-up poses, shots with props like baskets or blankets, or photos of your baby wrapped in soft, textured fabrics. If you’re looking for that classic newborn portrait feel, a studio session is the way to go.
They studio offers access to comfort and professional lighting.
Controlled Lighting – My studio is equipped with professional lighting, which means I have full control to capture the perfect lighting for each shot. This is especially helpful if your home doesn’t have abundant natural light.
Access to Props and Outfits – My studio offers a curated collection of newborn props, blankets, wraps, and outfits that you’re welcome to use. These details give your photos an elevated, polished look. If you’re envisioning specific colors or textures, I’m excited to bring your dreams to life!
The studio offers a whole array of safe props for our session!
Comfortable and Safe Environment – While studios are equipped for photography, mine is also designed with newborns and parents in mind. The studio will likely have a comfortable setup for feeding, changing, and resting, ensuring that the experience is enjoyable for both you and your baby. Look for a newborn photographer with newborn safety in mind.
Your newborn’s safety and comfort are the two most important things!
Newington, CT Studio Newborn Photography
Whether you choose an at-home or studio newborn session, you’re guaranteed beautiful memories of your baby’s early days. Consider what’s most important to you: Is it the cozy, familiar setting of your home? Or the artistic, timeless portraits that a studio can offer?
No matter your choice, I’m happy to guide you through the experience to ensure you have photos that reflect your family’s joy, connection, and love for your newest little one. Ready to schedule? Reach out today, and let’s start planning the newborn session of your dreams!
by Kristin Vacca | Jul 15, 2024 | Babies, Newborns
Nowadays, anyone can buy a camera, assume that as a parent, they can handle newborns, and call themselves a newborn photographer. If you’re looking for a newborn photographer near me on Google or asking in a local Moms Group on Facebook, a lot of results will come up. How can you possibly determine who to hire? I encourage you to do additional research and take the necessary time to find a trustworthy newborn photographer to work with.
The newborn photography industry is very much unregulated. That means it’s easy for anyone to call themselves a newborn photographer. We are not a licensed profession in Connecticut, although this is something I would personally love to see changed in the future. This is your precious newborn baby that we’re talking about, and if anything, there should be more scrutiny on who is handling them!! As a CT newborn photographer, I prioritize the delivery of professional, high-quality images as well as the health and safety of your newborn.
I’m very passionate about newborn photography. As a mom myself, I treasure every image from my daughter’s first days. BUT I thought I could photograph these myself, a week after a c-section delivery. That was completely out of the question, and because I didn’t know enough colleagues in the industry at the time, her newborn stage came and went. Don’t be like me! I know how much you’ll treasure your newborn images and artwork as the years go by. My clients deserve a stress-free newborn photography experience, and I work hard to deliver on that promise.
Today, I’d love to share what you should know about CT newborn photography safety.
Black and white image of a newborn
What to Look for in a Newborn Photographer
When you’re looking for a newborn photographer near me, look on the photographer’s website for any certifications or training he or she has received. This will show you that they take their work very seriously and invest in high-quality training. As I mentioned above, this is an unregulated industry, so look for photographers who take pride in their work and continuing education. This shows that they truly care.
Black and white image of mom and dad holding their newborn
After much hard work, I obtained my Master Newborn Photography designation from the NAPCP. This took a lot of time, effort, and investment on my part, and I was glad to do it so I could provide an ever-better service for my smallest clients.
Studio newborn portrait
I’ve spent years investing in hands-on training with some of the best newborn photographers in the world, including Son Kissed Photography, Erin Tole Photography, and TG Photography. Again, I didn’t have to do any of this, but I chose to. It takes effort, and in this case, a really large financial investment, but it was what I felt was necessary to truly learn the craft well. I also enjoy attending online education workshops annually to continue my education.
Pretty in pink during a newborn photoshoot
Does your photographer carry the necessary business liability insurance and is registered? Most don’t know that the minimum recommended coverage for newborn photographers is $2 million. That’s more than wedding photographers and most building contractors! You can easily look up a business on the Secretary of State’s website to confirm registration, as well as read their online reviews for better insight from actual customers. All of this ensures continued commitment by the photographer to work with your newborn baby safely.
Family’s first official portrait
5 Ways We Keep Newborn Babies Safe and Happy During Sessions
- Baby-Led Sessions – I always explain to clients that their baby runs the show. We go into the session with a common workflow goal, but we always follow the baby’s lead. I would never force a baby into an unsafe pose (more on that below), and the baby’s comfort is my top priority. I typically book the entire morning for my newborn sessions so that we’re never in a rush. It’s very rare that I have to reschedule a session because the baby isn’t having it, but if we need to reschedule, it’s okay! There is always a way to adjust posing and wrapping for baby’s comfort to still have beautiful photos.
Sweet newborn girl poses for portrait
Newborn girl sleeps on a white lace pillow during photoshoot
- Keeping the Studio Comfortable – For my studio sessions, I turn up the heat and make sure the baby is nice and cozy. I have a few other tricks to keep the baby comfortable. I want your entire family to feel welcome and comfortable here in the studio. For in-home lifestyle newborn sessions, I am still in tune with your baby to ensure they are comfortable and happy! Did you know that newborns usually need the temperature to be between 75-82 degrees to be comfortable (naked)? I am constantly monitoring the studio temperature to ensure we are in a safe range.
The studio is always snuggly and warm
Safe and gentle posing with newborn photography-specific props
- Using Props Specifically Designed for Newborn Photography – My newborn props didn’t just come from anywhere! And you cannot purchase them in a retail store. My props are specifically for newborn photography sessions. I invest in high-quality props, wraps, and outfits from vendors all over the world so that your images turn out beautiful and keep your baby safe throughout the session.
Professional, high-quality newborn props and wraps
Safe posing techniques
- Safe Posing Techniques – Newborn babies cannot hold themselves up or support their bodies; most weight early on is in their heads. This means it’s sometimes a multi-step process, or composite image, to create a beautiful image that is also safe.
This particular bucket pose is a popular one. It involves many layers to ensure the baby is photographed at the right angle and that nothing will hurt them. A number of soft pillows and fabrics are added all around and underneath them based on their size to keep them firmly in place. Most importantly, the bucket is counter-weighted to ensure it doesn’t tip.
The favorite newborn bucket pose
Finally, once I have them in place, a parent is always placed next to the bucket as a spotter, with hands-on or above the baby as needed. Sometimes, we’ll do a composite image if the baby isn’t deeply sleeping. All of this ensures a beautiful photo and a happy baby!
Another popular pose is the Froggie Pose! This is actually because of some gentle, safe posing and PhotoShop Magic. Typically, the baby’s sweet head is gently held while I take two different images. After the session, I use PhotoShop to create a composite and edit the hands out of the image. Always a favorite pose!
The sweet newborn froggy pose
- Session Timing – I typically schedule a newborn session within the first 14 days of life because this is when baby is sleepy and snuggly. (We can schedule sessions after this time as well!) I also schedule your session around your family.
As a mom myself, I completely understand the craziness that is the postpartum period. I usually block off the entire morning for your session. We might not need all that time, but it’s good to have it scheduled. I expect you to need a few breaks during the session as well as the baby needing breaks for feeding and changing. We want your entire family to be as comfortable as possible throughout the appointment.
Your whole family is relaxed and comfortable during the session
I hope this sheds some light on newborn photography safety so you feel comfortable searching for your CT newborn photographer. Your baby is so precious and so new! Find a photographer that you can trust to capture incredible images and artwork for you to treasure safely.
Safe posing with older sibling
CT Newborn Photographer
Hi! My name is Kristin Vacca of The Flash Lady Photography. I’ve photographed hundreds of newborns over the years and regularly invest in training to improve my craft. If you’re looking for CT newborn photography, I’d be happy to chat with you and answer any questions you may have. Please check out more of my newborn photography work on this page.
by Kristin Vacca | Jun 11, 2024 | Families, Newborns, Portraits
Handing a client their professionally printed artwork is truly one of the best parts of my job! I know I’ve just handed them an heirloom piece that their family will treasure forever. We’re in a digital age, but there is power in printing your photos after a professional photography session.
I think back to a very dear client of mine. We’ve done several sessions together over the years, documenting her children and family. The first time we worked together, this client only wanted digital files. She was sure she would print what she wanted. However, by the time our second session together about a year later came around, she just hadn’t gotten to printing photos from the first session. It’s not her fault! She’s a busy mom working and taking care of everyone else around her. During our second session, she decided to have me handle the printing of her album. I loved taking this big task off her plate, and she was overjoyed by her album. After every session we’ve had together since, I’ve created heirloom artwork for her.
Printing your photos and getting them off your computer and into your hands has some real benefits. I’d love to share six of them with you.
Family of three hanging out during their photo session
Capturing every sweet smile and giggle during their photoshoot
6 Benefits of Printing Your Photos and Turn Them Into Heirloom Artwork
- Technology Changes – Technology changes quickly. Will you or your children be able to access your images in the future? My wedding photos are on DVDs! There’s no easy way to access those now. But even in the more recent past, many clients had USB drives that are not always on computers and laptops these days. What if the USB becomes so old that I need to take it in to get the images off? Even Cloud-based storage is NOT guaranteed! Don’t leave your precious family memories sitting on a flash drive or a computer folder or your phone. Printing them is the only sure way to hold onto your images.
Documenting her growth!
Slow down and capture these precious moments!
- Tangible Memories – Yes, you can probably open your phone and swipe through hundreds (if not thousands!) of images of your children. Printing your images and creating an album, for example, freezes this moment in time with your children. Holding the image in your hands engages the senses and brings you back to the moment. As a mom of a preteen, I know our children grow way too fast! Printed artwork is how we can hold onto these memories.
Sharing a laugh during the photo session!
- Preserving Your Family’s Legacy – Photos are how we hold onto our family’s stories. Printing your family artwork creates a physical preservation of your family’s legacy. Your portraits will be passed down through the generations. Imagine who will be holding your artwork 50 or 100 years from now! When the news features unfortunate incidents of tragedy related to weather around the country, what are the family members usually holding? Frames, albums, PHOTOS! In those moments, they are the most important heirloom of their past.
The official family portrait!
Printed heirloom albums
- Display What Matters to You – Decorate your home with what matters most to you while showing off your beautiful family! This can be done with a variety of artwork products such as a statement piece, wall gallery, print collection box, or beautiful display albums. Your walls will be full of what you love the most in this world!
Beautiful studio newborn session
Black and white portrait from a studio newborn photoshoot
- Wall Art is Good for Children – Studies have shown that photography is actually good for children. Growing up with their images on the wall creates self-confidence and visually shows them their place in the world. What a happy place for kids to grow up! I know that looking at my family photos brings me a lot of joy, too! My daughter often looks through the albums I create each year of our memories and loves talking about the stories in them. They are easily accessible and bring out lots of laughs when her grandparents come to visit too!
Mom and dad proudly hold their newborn daughter
Newborn baby girl safely posted in a wicker chair
- Maximizing Your Professional Photography Investment – Hear me out on this one! You’re investing in a professional photography experience, so don’t miss out on the most important part! If you leave your digital files in a folder somewhere or only post them on social media, they’re not bringing you joy every day, and you’re not getting the fullest VALUE of your photoshoot! Maximize your investment by having some of your images printed along with those keepsake digital files.
Summer purple and white
Album and grandparent album
The Benefits of Professionally Printing Your Photos
Don’t trust your printing your heirloom artwork to a big box store. There are some major benefits to professionally printing your photos and creating custom artwork just for you.
Full-Service Design Process – This is not just a random product based on a big box store’s algorithm. We put care and thought into which artwork pieces you want to create and why. I love asking my clients how they want to use their images and bringing their vision to life. My print labs can create custom products to match your exact taste and style.
Mom holding her newborn daughter
Quality that Lasts – Drugstore and big-box printers just don’t last, and they aren’t calibrated to a professional’s computer. In many cases, they’ll even ruin the many hours of editing work that I put into your gallery! My print labs carefully craft each piece of artwork, resulting in an heirloom that will last over many decades and generations. When your artwork arrives at the studio, I personally look through every item to make sure it’s perfect. If it’s not (very rarely), I send it back until it is! I want you to love your artwork.
Sweet, snuggled newborn pose
Off Your To-Do List and Onto Mine – Remember the client I mentioned before? She’s a busy professional and mom. She already has a million things on her to-do list. I am so glad to take this important task off my client’s to-do lists and onto mine – and there are so many similar stories to her’s. You’ll feel relieved knowing your artwork will be in print and look beautiful for many years to come.
This beautiful girl is the princess of the house
Glastonbury Professional Portrait Photographer
As your full-service portrait photographer in Glastonbury, we begin with the end in mind for a seamless experience from start to finish. You’re never pressured to purchase anything you don’t want but always have OPTIONS of what you can do with your images. I’ve never had a client regret printing their images, but I HAVE had clients regret not doing so!! I’d love to help you craft a custom full-service portrait session and create heirloom artwork for you. Don’t forget – Grandparents LOVE printed artwork too! We have some great gift ideas for them as well. If you’re ready to meet, I’d love the opportunity to chat with you! Please click here to get in touch with me.
by Kristin Vacca | May 23, 2024 | Maternity, Newborns
Are you having a baby soon!? There is so much to plan and so much to get ready before your little one arrives. You can Google Baby Registry ideas and find all the usual items, but which items will you really need? What are some of the must-haves new moms can’t live without? My daughter is only 11 years old, and I feel like there have been so many new baby items out there since she was a newborn. But I ALSO remember so many fancy things that really weren’t necessary and can take up a lot of your budget! I decided to ask my team and post a poll on Instagram to find out what the must-have items are. One of my team members just had her second baby last year, so she had some good insights.
Here are eleven items you should add to your baby registry! We linked to the items below. None of these links are affiliates!
10 Must-Have Baby Registry Items
- Sound Machine – A sound machine will help the baby fall asleep and stay asleep! There are so many options for sound machines, and some people swear by their Hatch (can can be programmed with your phone), but an inexpensive one this like will do the, job too!
Hanging out in the nursery!
- Black Out Shade – Another sleep-must! If light pours into your baby’s room during the day, a black-out shade is a must. Keep your baby’s room nice and dark for better sleep. My team member got this one invented by a night shift worker who needed better sleep! There are many portable options when you travel, too.
Big sister is excited to meet the baby!
- Baby Night Light – Now this would have been great during night feeds! This “egg light” turns on with a tap, is portable, and creates the perfect soft light during a night feed. You can keep the room lights off but still see what you need during night feeds and diaper changes.
Ready to become a family of four!
- Waterproof Crib Sheets (and a waterproof sheet for your bed!) – Register for waterproof crib sheets and several crib sheet backups. You don’t want to have to mess around if the sheets get wet during the night. My team member has a bonus tip: get a waterproof sheet for your bed, too! You just never know what might spill at the worst moment.
Hugging mom’s baby bump!
- Baby Swing – There will be times when you need to set your baby down in a safe spot. A baby swing is the perfect place for baby to hang out while you get things done or just take a break. Swings aren’t meant for sleeping all night, though! Please research the latest in safe sleep.
In-home maternity portrait session
- Baby Carrier – Another safe spot for your baby is tucked in against you in a cozy carrier. There are many carrier options, and you might have to try a few to find the perfect one for you. My team member really liked the K’Tan or an Ergo Baby Carrier.
Swaddled newborn snuggled up with dad
- Electric Nail Trimmer – Trimming a baby’s tiny, delicate nails can be nerve-wracking. Now they have these handy electric nail trimmers! Now, it’s easy to trim baby’s nails with no clipping.
Family of three poses for newborn portrait!
- Frida Nose Sucker – The holy grail! Unfortunately, your sweet baby will get sick, and you will be so glad that you have this handy. You can help your congested baby breathe with this easy-to-use nose sucker. It works so much better than a regular suction bulb.
Documenting your growing family!
- Haaka – If you’re planning on breastfeeding your baby, consider adding a Haaka to your pumping equipment! This breast pump is easy to use and clean, making it super easy to collect breast milk. Just YouTube or Google tricks on how to use this pump.
Their pup is front and center in this portrait
- Mobile Diaper Changing Station – If your home has multiple levels, consider a mobile diaper changing station on the main level. You don’t want to be caught with a poopy diaper and need to run all the way upstairs to the nursery for a diaper change! You can choose a simple cart to store all the diaper changing (and maybe even spare outfits!), or you can find a mobile diaper-changing station like this one.
Who’s on diaper duty tonight?
- Professional Photography Gift Certificate – Document this very special time in your life with professional maternity and newborn photography. Celebrate your pregnancy and welcome your new arrival by capturing portraits you’ll treasure for the rest of your life. I even offer gift cards with the ability to make multiple contributions for easy group gifting.
Relaxing as a family during their newborn session
Finding Your Newborn Photographer near Windsor, CT
After you finish your registry, the next big item is booking your newborn photographer. We typically take newborn photos within the baby’s first two weeks of life, so the sooner you can get on my calendar, the better! I will hold a session spot on the baby’s due date, but babies come when they want! We keep in touch towards the end of your pregnancy so that we can schedule a date that works best for your family once your baby is born. I truly look forward to hearing about your baby’s safe arrival and planning your custom newborn photography session. Reach out to learn more information or to book your session with me. I can’t wait to meet you and your baby!
