The arrival of a new baby into your family is among life’s most beautiful and transformative experiences. And at Dinithi Fernando Photography, we understand that those fleeting newborn moments are worth capturing forever in timeless portraits. But as enchanting as newborn photography can be, getting ready for your baby’s first photo shoot can be stressful—especially for first-time parents.

That’s why we’ve created this simple, low-stress guide to make the most of your newborn photography experience. We want you to walk into our Edmonton studio to feel confident, prepared and excited.

Timing is Everything

Newborns are best photographed in the first 5 to 14 days after birth. His mind went to the “sweet spot” phase, between four weeks and about the three-month mark. If you can, schedule your session ahead of time — in your second or third trimester, if you can — so we can block something off our calendar around your due date.

Keep Baby Comfortable

We keep the studio warm & cozy so babes stay happy and sleepy. Dress your tot in loose-fitting clothes you can easily take off, and avoid anything that could leave marks on their skin. A well-fed, well-rested baby will make for a much smoother session!

It can be helpful to feed your baby right before the session. We want a full tummy so they are calm and sleepy during posing. Our sessions are baby-led and fully flexible–don’t stress if your little one needs a snack, break, or a snuggle!

What to Bring

Here’s a quick checklist of things to bring with you:

Extra diapers and wipes

A pacifier (if baby uses one)

Bottles or snacks if bottle-feeding

Spare clothes for baby and parents

Specific blankets, heirlooms or props (optional)

We offer many types of wraps, headbands, props here at Dinithi Fernando Photography, but we love to use those special items that mean something to you and make your session more meaningful!

What Parents Should Wear

Keep it simple and neutral. Soft tones such as beige, cream, and pastels catch the light beautifully in photographs, but don’t distract from the baby. Steer clear of busy patterns or loud logos that detract from the overall picture.

If you want to be in a handful of photos with your baby (and we really think you should!), dress comfortably and timelessly. Pairing without being too matchy creates a harmonious outfit that feels casual yet refined.

Trust the Process

Newborn photography is a craft — and a gentle one, at that. Dinithi has been working with newborns for years and will take every measure to ensure your baby’s safety and comfort during the session. Have faith in our process, and if your baby cries, fusses or needs a break, don’t worry. These are all part of the experience.

Some of the best images happen in between things, so take a deep breath, and let the session happen organically.

Transform the Experience Into a Memory

As opposed to just a simple photoshoot, your newborn session is a celebration of your expanding family. Make the day special. Snap behind-the-scenes pics, create your must-play list and embrace living in the moment.

We will thoughtfully review and edit your gallery to feature the beauty of your newborn, which will be shared after your session. From there, you’ll choose heirloom prints and albums — future keepsakes for generations.

Final Thoughts

At Dinithi Fernando Photography, we strive to provide a safe, loving environment for you and your newborns. A little preparation and a lot of love can lead to a fun and memorable newborn photography session.

We’re here to help you capture this beautiful new beginning with timeless imagery that you’ll treasure forever. If you’re in Edmonton or the surrounding area and are expecting a new arrival, we want to hear from you!