Those early newborn days are beautiful, emotional, and exhausting all at once. As a newborn photographer in Hertfordshire, I spend my days settling and soothing tiny babies during sessions, and over the years I have found a few simple techniques that work time and time again.
These are the same calming methods I use every day in my warm, relaxed Hatfield studio, and they can work just as beautifully at home too.
White Noise
Babies are used to constant noise in the womb, so complete silence can actually feel unfamiliar to them. White noise or gentle shushing sounds can help recreate that comforting environment and encourage your baby to settle and sleep more peacefully.
I always have white noise playing softly throughout my newborn photography sessions, and parents are often amazed at how quickly it helps calm their baby.
Heater
Newborn babies love warmth. A cosy room can make a huge difference in helping your baby feel comfortable and secure, especially after changing or during feeds.
In my newborn photography studio in Hertfordshire, I keep the room lovely and warm during every session so babies stay sleepy, relaxed, and content.
Calm Environment as Well as Being Calm Yourself
Babies are incredibly sensitive to the energy around them. A calm environment with soft lighting, gentle voices, and slow movements can help your baby feel safe and settled.
Just as importantly, your baby responds to you. Taking your time, staying relaxed, and remaining calm yourself can often help soothe your newborn faster than anything else.
My studio sessions are always baby led, unhurried, and peaceful because babies settle best when everyone around them feels relaxed too.
Swaddling
Swaddling helps babies feel secure by recreating the snug feeling of the womb. It can prevent the startle reflex from waking them and is one of the quickest ways to comfort a fussy newborn baby.
I use swaddling throughout my newborn sessions, not just because it photographs beautifully, but because it genuinely helps babies feel calm, cosy, and safe.
Stroking Face or Gentle Swaying From Side to Side
Gentle movement is incredibly soothing for newborns. Slowly swaying from side to side or softly stroking your baby’s face can help them drift off to sleep and feel reassured.
I use gentle rhythmic movements during sessions all the time, especially with unsettled babies, and it is often enough to help them completely relax within moments.
At Megan Foster Photography, every newborn photography session in Hertfordshire is designed to feel calm, warm, and relaxed for both baby and parents. Families visit my Hatfield studio from across Hertfordshire and North London to capture those precious early days in a natural and timeless way.
If you are looking for a newborn photographer in Hertfordshire, I would love to welcome you to the studio.
Putting These Tips into Practice
The more you practice these five soothing techniques at home, the better you’ll understand what works best for your baby. Some might respond well to shushing or white noise, while others might calm down with gentle swinging.
I hope you find these tips helpful. I’d love to hear which techniques work best for you and your little one.
*Ready to book your newborn photoshoot?
With love
Megan x
