An In-home Newborn Session with a Toddler in Roseville CA
- Morgan Orahood
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
One of my goals for 2026 was to shoot more newborn sessions. I’m not sure if it’s because I was just in this season with my own family or simply because of how sweet these moments are, but I have truly fallen in love with newborn sessions. When you add a toddler sibling into the mix, it brings an extra layer of connection that I absolutely love.
Here are my top three tips for newborn sessions when a toddler is involved, especially for parents preparing for their session:
1. Let your toddler set the pace. Toddlers do best when they feel comfortable. During your session, I never force interaction between your toddler and the newborn. We allow them to warm up naturally, take breaks when needed, and join in when they are ready. This approach leads to more genuine moments and helps your toddler feel confident and secure.
2. Go into the session with flexible expectations. Every toddler reacts differently to a new sibling, and that is completely normal. Some may be excited and affectionate, while others may prefer to observe from a distance. From a photography standpoint, this is not a setback. Those in-between moments often tell the most honest story of your family during this season.
3. Focus on connection rather than posed moments. I guide toddlers with simple prompts and playful interactions rather than strict poses. This keeps the session relaxed and enjoyable for them while allowing me to capture authentic connection. Parents play a big role here by staying calm and following cues, which helps everyone feel at ease and results in natural, meaningful images.
At the end of the day, newborn sessions with a toddler are about embracing this season exactly as it is. A little movement, a little chaos, and a lot of love are all part of the story. By keeping things relaxed and following your toddler’s lead, we create images that feel genuine, connected, and true to your family. These moments pass quickly, and capturing them just as they are is what makes them so special.
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