Welcoming Baby No.2: Why a Newborn Session with a Toddler Is More Special Than You Think

Let’s be honest — having a newborn and a toddler is no small feat. You’re in that sleep-deprived, snack-fetching, always-carrying-someone season of life. So when you think about booking a newborn photoshoot, I understand if your first thought might be… “How on earth will we get any good photos?!”

But here’s the truth:
Your toddler doesn’t need to sit still.
Your house doesn’t need to look perfect.
And your session doesn’t need to be calm to be meaningful.

As a family and newborn photographer based in Yeovil, Somerset (and a mum myself), I can tell you, hand on heart, some of the most precious, personality-packed images I’ve ever captured have been with energetic older siblings right in the middle of it all.

A little older sibling magic

As your family grows your energy might be lacking but your love, it knows no bounds. So trust me when I say seeing your little one become a big brother or sister will melt your heart in a way you didn’t even know was possible. Capturing that interaction is something you don’t want to miss.

That mischievous smile as they peek into the Moses basket, the proud hand resting on baby’s head, or the spontaneous giggle that happens mid-cuddle — these moments aren’t just “nice to have”. They’re the ones you’ll treasure most in years to come.

The beauty of in-home, baby-led sessions

When we shoot at home, your toddler is already in their happy place. They’ve got their favourite toy, snacks nearby, and they can dip in and out of photos as they feel comfortable. I work entirely around your little ones — whether that means playing peekaboo, running around the garden, or sitting quietly for a cuddle and a story.

No pressure. No posing. Just your real life, captured beautifully.

This also means that if you and your newborn need a break for a change, a feed or just a cuppa (you, not the baby!) then that’s what we’ll do. No rushing from pose to pose, no panic sweats if baby starts to get cranky. Its all about taking things at your pace and enjoying spending some quality time with your family.

Let Them Lead (Yes, Even the Toddler)

With many years of photographing little ones under my belt I have learned a few useful tips along the way. Making sure that your toddler has the space to participate as much or as little as they want is an absolute game changer. Trust me!

It may sound counter intuitive but giving your older child time to step away, play a game with daddy or have a snack break can make all the difference. 99.9% of the time they come back raring to go and just wanting be involved.

My other secret weapon – make them the spotlight. Instead of trying to direct or control the session, we let your little ones show us how it’s done.

If your toddler wants to jump on the bed, crawl under the table, or hand me a toy train mid-shot — perfect. These are the moments that reveal their personality. We gently follow their lead, encouraging play, interaction, and cuddles when they’re ready.

From one mum to another

I’ve recently had my first baby, and let me tell you — hats off to all the amazing mums navigating life with a newborn and a toddler. You’re in the thick of it, doing the impossible on very little sleep (and probably with a snack in your pocket that isn’t yours).

So if you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed at the thought of booking a photoshoot — I get it. I really do. And that’s exactly why I’m here to be your personal cheerleader, your calm voice of reason, and the one capturing all those little moments you’re too busy living to see.

Because these days wont wait

So if you’re thinking, “Maybe I’ll wait until things feel a bit more settled…”
This is your gentle nudge: now is the perfect time.

Your newborn and your toddler — together, in your arms, in your home.
That’s a story worth telling.

📍Based in Yeovil, Somerset – I offer relaxed, baby-led in-home newborn sessions across the area.

Pop me a message or leave a comment to book your shoot — I’d love to capture this chapter for you.

Want to know more about In-Home Newborn Photography check out my blog post Behind the Scenes – Capturing Relaxed and Natural In-Home Newborn Photography