What Happens During a Newborn Photography Session If My Baby Cries the Entire Time?

I think one worry every new parent has for their newborn photography session is this: “What if my baby cries the whole time?”

I can still remember how nervous I was going to the very first doctor’s appointment with my newborn baby boy when he was just a week old. Will he cry the whole time? What if I need to feed him and he won’t latch? What if I can’t get him to settle?

Of course, he slept through the entire appointment and all that worry was for nothing — but I completely understand why this is such a common concern, especially when you’re planning a Brisbane newborn photography session.

First Things First — I Get It

Those early newborn days can feel overwhelming… no one really knows what they’re doing right? Babies cry, sometimes for reasons we never quite figure out. Feeding can be challenging and some times it feels like your newborn baby will never fall asleep and in turn you will never get a full nights sleep again!

So I want you to know this first and foremost: I get it.

If your baby cries during your newborn photography session, that is absolutely okay. There is no rush and no pressure. My sessions are baby-led and relaxed — we let your baby set the pace.

If they want to be cuddled, perfect.
If they only settle in a certain position, no problem.
If they need to feed, then feed them.

My own little boy would only settle if he was held while bouncing on a gym ball — and you definitely couldn’t stop bouncing! Babies are all different, and we work with whatever your baby needs in that moment.

A Calm, Flexible Approach to Newborn Photography

My style of newborn photography in Brisbane is very natural and unposed. That means your baby doesn’t need to sleep or be pushed into poses “on cue” for beautiful photos to happen.

If you’re worried about time — especially if you have older children — I often recommend booking a Family Story Session. These sessions run a little longer, which gives us plenty of breathing room to pause for feeds, cuddles, and settling without feeling rushed.

Sometimes just knowing there’s extra time can help you relax — and relaxed parents usually mean a calmer baby too.

What About Older Siblings?

For second-time (or third- or fourth-time!) parents, there’s often another layer of worry:
“What if the big brother or sister doesn’t cooperate?”

As a Mum of 2 I completely understand. Their world has just changed, they now have to share their space with a new little one, and they might be feeling a little out of sorts.

This is another reason why in-home newborn photography works so beautifully. Being in their own space allows siblings to warm up in their own time. They can play, cuddle, come and go — and if they need extra attention, that’s okay too.

For families with older children, I usually suggest a Family Story or Full Story Session, so everyone can ease into the experience naturally while I document your real family life.

And If You Need More Time — That’s Okay Too

If you’re still feeling unsure, or if the birth didn’t go to plan and you need more time to recover, you don’t have to rush into newborn photos.

Having your baby photography session when your baby is a little older is always an option. There’s no “right” or “wrong” time — only what feels best for you and your family.

Still Have Questions?

If you have questions, or would like to check availability for a newborn photography session in Brisbane (or further afield), just get in touch.
I’d love to chat.