As an Edmonton newborn photographer, my daily job is to help my tiniest clients feel safe, relaxed, and comfortable — so they can drift into peaceful sleep and I can capture timeless images of their early days. Over the years, I’ve noticed certain items that not only make Newborn photography sessions go more smoothly but also help new parents adjust to life with a newborn.
Whether you’re a first-time parent, panning your own newborn photoshoot in Edmonton or shopping for a thoughtful baby gift, these are my favourite essentials that I see parents using (and loving!) again and again.
1. Swaddle: A Soothing Essential for Safe Sleep
Newborns often crave the snug, secure feeling they had in the womb. During a baby photography sessions in Edmonton, if a baby is unsettled or struggling to fall asleep, swaddling usually helps calm them almost instantly. It prevents unnecessary flailing from the Moro reflex (startle reflex) and helps them feel safe.
Swaddle bags are especially helpful because they’re easy to use and reduce the risks associated with loose blankets in the crib. According to Health Canada and the Canadian Paediatric Society, swaddle sacks are a safe alternative that support better sleep and reduce the risk of suffocation.
If you’re in Edmonton, I often recommend checking out Princess and the Pea — a beautiful local baby store that carries a wide range of cozy and safe swaddles.
2. Pacifier: Small but Mighty
Pacifiers have truly been lifesavers during newborn photo sessions. Every time I move a baby into a new pose, there’s a risk they’ll wake up. A pacifier helps soothe them quickly — especially for those who are light sleepers or dealing with gas.
Newborns are born with a natural sucking reflex, which is one of the ways they self-soothe and feel secure. A pacifier can be comforting between feedings, on car rides, or while trying to settle down for sleep. In fact, the Canadian Paediatric Society recommends offering a pacifier at nap and bedtime, as it may reduce the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).
That said, if a baby is still establishing breastfeeding, I usually encourage waiting a little before introducing a pacifier to avoid nipple confusion. For photography purposes, I may gently suggest using one — but only if parents are comfortable. Used mindfully, pacifiers can be an incredibly helpful tool during the newborn stage.
3. Baby Balm: Comfort for Delicate Skin
I always keep baby balm in my studio — not just for newborn photo sessions, but for milestone or Edmonton cake smash sessions too. As long as a baby is still in diapers, a gentle balm is a must-have.
Newborn skin is especially sensitive. Even with frequent diaper changes, diaper rash can happen quickly, especially after exposure to the acids in stool or urine. A quality baby balm forms a protective barrier, locking in moisture and preventing irritation. It’s also helpful for dry patches, baby acne, and minor bumps or bruises.
In every session, if a baby needs a quick clean-up, I gently wash the area and apply balm right away to keep their skin soft and comfortable.
4. Extra Milk Bottles: Because One Is Never Enough
Milk bottles are a common baby essential — But you’d be surprised how many Edmonton families with newborns realize they don’t have enough bottles after the baby arrives! From experience, I’ve found the sweet spot is around 6 bottles. During a typical newborn session (which can take 3–5 hours), babies often feed 1–2 times.
Having several clean bottles ready makes a huge difference, especially overnight. Rather than rushing to clean one bottle in the middle of the night, parents can prepare in advance and enjoy more rest. This also helps prevent cross-contamination, especially important in the first few weeks when babies are more vulnerable.
Even breastfeeding parents can benefit from having clean bottles on hand — whether for pumped milk, supplementing, or simply heading out for a walk or appointment.
5. Stroller Rocker: A Gentle Motion That Works Wonders
One of my favourite studio tricks is using a stroller rocker under the posing table. It gently mimics the swaying motion that soothes babies — part of the famous “5 S’s” method (Swaddle, Side, Shush, Swing, Suck) for calming newborns. While the rocker is designed for use with strollers, I’ve found it works beautifully to help babies settle into sleep before or during their Edmonton newborn photo session. It provides just the right amount of motion to help babies settle into sleep without overstimulating them. For home use, it’s perfect for gently rocking the stroller while parents rest, prep meals, or take a quick break. It’s a hands-free solution that makes daily life just a little bit easier.
Final Thoughts
As someone who has photographed hundreds of families through my Edmonton newborn photography business, I can tell you — these essentials make a difference. They’re simple, practical, and thoughtfully designed to support new babies (and their tired parents!).
Whether you’re preparing for your first baby, looking for a gift for new parents, or planning your newborn photography session in Edmonton, these items will help make the early days more comfortable and memorable.
If you’re interested in booking a natural, baby-led newborn photoshoot in Edmonton, I’d love to hear from you. My goal is to create relaxed, heartwarming images that celebrate your baby’s first days. For more tips, stories, and behind-the-scenes looks, connect with me on Instagram.
Samantha, the visionary behind Little One Photo, is a passionate photographer with a special gift for capturing the essence of newborns and families. With over a decade of experience, she has honed her craft to create timeless, emotive portraits that families cherish for generations. Samantha’s warm personality and patient approach put even the tiniest clients at ease, allowing her to capture genuine moments of connection and love.
