How to Capture Meaningful Newborn Photos When You Have Toddlers

Expecting baby number two? Wondering if a newborn session is even worth it when your toddler is, well… a toddler?

I get it. It’s a big transition. And when families book newborn sessions, one of the first things I often hear is, “My oldest just won’t cooperate,” or “It might be chaos.” But here’s the good news: chaos is welcome.

Lifestyle newborn photography is made for growing families. These sessions are about real life—mess, movement, and all. It’s not about perfect poses; it’s about real connection.

As a Munich-based newborn photographer (and a mom who’s been there), I’m here to show you how beautiful and manageable newborn photos with siblings can be.

Why Sibling Newborn Sessions Matter

When a new baby arrives, it is a shift for the whole family, especially for older siblings. These photos are more than baby portraits. They’re a way to document your family’s story as it is right now—messy, magical, and full of change.

And while newborn photos often center on the baby, I always remind families: your older child is just as important to this moment. They’re becoming a big brother or sister. That deserves to be honored, too.

5 Tips for Making Family Newborn Sessions with Siblings Easy (and Enjoyable)

1. Keep Expectations Low

Toddlers will be toddlers. Some warm up quickly, others need space. And that’s completely okay.

Let your child come in and out of the session naturally. Don’t stress if they need a snack, a break, or time to warm up. We’ll gently guide, never force. The best moments often happen in between the “plan.”

2. Prepare Your Older Child Ahead of Time (In Simple, Age-Appropriate Ways)

Use simple, age-appropriate language to explain what’s happening:

• Let them know a kind person is coming to take photos.
• Show them my photo from the website so they know who to expect.
• Invite them to “help” take photos or choose a toy to show me.

The more included they feel, the better they’ll engage.

3. Prioritize Connection Over Perfection

This isn’t a photo competition. There’s no “right” way to smile or sit or look. Whether your toddler is hugging the baby, bouncing on the bed, or showing off their favorite dinosaur, that is the magic.

Those are the moments you’ll treasure years from now.

4. Use Gentle, Playful Prompts

I’ve gathered a few gentle prompts over the years that often spark curiosity and help kids feel playful rather than put on the spot:

• “Can you help me count the baby’s toes?”
• “Can you tickle her feet?”
• “Hmm… does the baby smell like bananas or strawberries?”
• “Do you think she’s dreaming about cake or dinosaurs?”

These kinds of silly, sensory-based prompts give older siblings something to do and feel in charge of. Most of the time, they’ll lean right in… and I’ll be ready to capture that precious moment.

5. Make Sure Your Oldest Feels Included

From the moment I arrive, I take time to build trust with your older child:

• I’ll ask to see their favorite toy or room.
• I’ll take a few portraits of just them.
• I’ll follow their lead when the timing feels right.

When siblings feel special and safe, the rest often falls into place naturally.

These Are the Moments You’ll Want to Remember

Years from now, it won’t be the perfectly posed photos that move you most. It’ll be the way your toddler peeked into the bassinet. The way your partner held both kids at once. The way you smiled with one baby on each hip, feeling equal parts chaos and joy.

Adding a second child doesn’t mean doubling the stress of newborn photos. It means doubling the heart. With support, space, and a calm approach, these sessions become some of the most meaningful ones I get to document.

Looking for Newborn Photos with Siblings in Munich?

If you’re a growing family and want natural, relaxed newborn photos that include your toddler or older child, I’d love to help. My in-home sessions are built around comfort, flexibility, and connection.

Reach out to start planning your newborn session with siblings in Munich.

You’re doing an incredible job, and these photos will remind you of just how much love lives in the in-between moments.