As a newborn photographer with over 14 years of experience and thousands of little ones in front of my lens, I can confidently say: tools and preparation is everything. As creative as you are, when your studio is fully stocked with the right tools and props, it not only makes your job easier, it creates a calm, safe, and beautiful environment for baby and peace of mind for parents.

Whether you’re just getting started or looking to level up your newborn sessions, these are the must-have essentials I rely on in my studio every day. A few of the links below are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you!

1. The Baby Shusher – Perfect For Soothing Sounds

Babies love white noise—especially sounds that remind them of the womb. The Baby Shusher has been my go-to for years. Its gentle, rhythmic “shhh” works like magic to soothe even the fussiest little ones and helps them settle into that deep sleep that’s ideal for posing. It’s compact, super easy to use, and hands-down one of the best tools I’ve added to my kit. I use it in every single newborn session—and it’s something both parents and fellow photographers find incredibly useful.

Learn more

2. Favorite Wraps – Soft, Stretchy, and Studio-Ready

Wraps are the foundation of almost every newborn session. I keep a curated collection of super-soft, stretchy wraps in neutral tones and soft pastels that complement every skin tone and style. My favorite sources include include favorites here,

Choose wraps that:

Have great stretch and recovery
Are breathable (think soft jersey or bamboo fabrics)
Photograph beautifully in natural and studio light

3. A Quality Newborn Posing Table & Posers

A dedicated newborn posing table is a total game-changer. I use one that has adjustable height, a firm surface, and is padded for baby’s comfort. It allows me to pose confidently and safely without compromising my back or posture. Having a large surface area gives me creative freedom with different setups while keeping baby secure.

[Link picture here]

4. Studio Heater – Keep Baby Cozy

A warm baby is a sleepy baby. I always have a space heater running before and during sessions to maintain a toasty studio temperature (typically around 80-85°F). Babies lose heat quickly, especially when undressed, so this step is non-negotiable.

Safety Tip: Use a space heater with a thermostat and tip-over protection, and always monitor the temperature closely.

[Link heater Danielle has]

5. Clamps

6. Baby Care Essentials

7. Step Stool

8. Rolling cart

9. Lens or lenses

10. Light source

11. Props That Tell a Story

Props should elevate your images, not overwhelm them. I focus on timeless, minimalistic pieces that add texture and warmth. My studio favorites include:

Woven baskets and vintage bowls
Soft layers chunky woven blankets
Wooden beds and crates
Delicate headbands and bonnets

Keep it simple: Let baby be the star of the image. Props should never take away from the emotion or purity of the moment.

After photographing thousands of newborns, I’ve learned that a calm, prepared environment sets the tone for a successful session. Parents are trusting you with their most precious gift. When you have the right tools—like the Baby Shusher, beautiful wraps, a safe posing surface, warmth, and meaningful props—you’re free to focus on capturing those fleeting, once-in-a-lifetime moments.