Newborn · 5 min read
Preparing for Newborn Photos in Toronto & Richmond Hill
You do not need to arrive with a perfectly settled baby or a perfectly organised bag. A newborn session is a chance to slow down and photograph your baby as they are. A few practical preparations can make the day feel easier.
Tell us what matters to you
When you enquire, let Sahar know whether you want individual newborn portraits, photographs with parents and siblings, or a mix. Share your preferred colours and any meaningful item you would like to include.
We will discuss the session length, setting and what can fit into your booking. If you want both individual portraits and family photographs, mention this early so we can plan time for everyone.
Pack the everyday essentials
Bring the supplies you normally need for an outing: nappies, wipes, a change of clothes and whatever you use for feeding. A familiar blanket and a spare top for a parent can also be useful. Choose an easy-opening outfit with a zip or front fastenings, so changing does not require pulling tight clothing over your baby’s head.
There is no need to buy a collection of props. Newborn wardrobe and accessories are available; tell us your preferences beforehand so we can discuss suitable options. Simple colours and soft textures keep attention on your baby.
Let your baby set the pace
Follow your baby’s usual care routine rather than trying to force a particular mood for the camera. Babies may need feeding, changing or time in a parent’s arms. Let Sahar know when you need a pause.
Sleep is not a requirement for a meaningful photograph. Awake expressions, tiny hands and a quiet moment together can all become part of your gallery. We will adapt the photographs to what your baby is comfortable with.
Keep family clothing simple
If adults or siblings will be photographed, bring comfortable clothes in a small, coordinated colour palette. Cream, muted tones or simple dark clothing can each work, depending on the look you prefer. Avoid large logos if you want the focus to stay on connection.
For siblings, bring a familiar activity for any waiting time and ensure an adult can supervise them throughout. Before session day, confirm the location and participants with Sahar. The aim is a calm experience, with space for your family to be yourselves.
Plan the session before building a shopping list
For newborn photos in Toronto and Richmond Hill, the most useful first step is a conversation about what you want to remember. Tiny individual portraits, a parent holding the baby and a photograph with siblings are different priorities. Tell Sahar which matters most, especially if you are considering a shorter session. This helps us plan the time around your family rather than around a collection of props.
If you are enquiring before the birth, share your estimated due date rather than feeling that you must predict a session date. If your baby has already arrived, share their age and your preferred dates. Availability and the final session plan need to be confirmed directly.
A real visual example from the Memo portfolio
The newborn section of the Memo portfolio includes individual posed portraits on soft, minimal backgrounds. The quiet colours keep attention on small details and the baby’s expression. The wider portfolio also shows parents holding their babies, which brings a different kind of connection into the photograph. These are useful references when deciding whether individual portraits, family images or both are most important to you.
You do not need to choose an elaborate set for a varied gallery. A change in framing, a small detail and a parent’s arms can each tell part of the story. Use the portfolio to point out a feeling you like, while leaving room for the photographs that suit your own baby.
Choose enough time for the people taking part
The current newborn collections offer one, two or three hours, with different numbers of edited photographs. A one-hour session is a focused option. If you hope to include individual baby portraits, both parents, siblings and several combinations, discuss those expectations before selecting it. A longer booking provides more time, although it cannot promise a particular pose or that a baby will sleep.
Share any practical needs when you enquire, including feeding breaks and the number of siblings. Newborn wardrobe and accessories are available, so ask about the styles you like before bringing extra items. The current package page is the place to review inclusions, and Sahar can help you choose a manageable plan.
Keep comfort ahead of a reference photograph
Online galleries show finished moments, not every pause between them. Your baby does not have to perform in the same way as another baby. Tell Sahar if you want to stop, feed, change a nappy or spend a little time holding your child. Never feel you need to delay ordinary care to preserve a photograph.
If your baby was born early or has particular care needs, mention the practical considerations when planning the session and follow your healthcare team’s advice. A photograph is never a reason to override that advice. We can discuss a simpler approach or a different date rather than assuming that every reference image is appropriate.
What happens after the session
Before you leave, make sure you understand your chosen collection and the delivery arrangements. Memo’s session terms state that the edited gallery is delivered within two to three weeks. The number of edited photographs follows the package you booked; ask about any additional photographs rather than assuming that every frame taken is included.
Keep the booking conversation and session details somewhere easy to find. Your deposit, payment arrangements and any changes should be clear in writing. If you are still deciding when to reserve, read the journal’s guide to booking newborn photos, then send your due date or your baby’s age so we can discuss the next step together.
Have a question about your own session? Send Sahar an enquiry and we’ll discuss the details together.