What Happens If My Baby Is Fussy During Our Newborn Session
First things first — it’s completely normal if your baby fusses during your newborn session. I 100% expect it! Every baby has their own rhythm, and a little crying or restlessness happens in nearly every session I photograph.
As a lifestyle newborn photographer in Northern New Jersey, I always build extra time into every session to allow your baby to feed, settle, and feel comfortable. These pauses are part of the process — and sometimes, they lead to some of the sweetest, most genuine photos of all.
🍼 Feeding Breaks Are Always Welcome
The first thing I usually suggest when a baby starts to fuss is to see if it’s time for a feeding break. Babies have tiny tummies, and sometimes a quick feed is all they need to feel calm again.
If you’re comfortable with it, I may quietly photograph this time — and I promise, those images often end up being some of my favorites. There’s something so raw and beautiful about the connection between you and your baby during a feed.
And yes, even burping photos have their charm! Whether your little one is nestled on your shoulder or perched in dad’s hands, those tiny expressions and moments of relief always make for sweet, authentic memories.
🤍 The Magic of Swaddling
If your baby is still having a hard time settling, I’ll usually suggest swaddling. I always bring a few swaddles with me — including a soft inner layer that keeps baby’s arms gently tucked, and a pretty outer wrap that photographs beautifully.
Most babies love being swaddled because it feels familiar and secure — just like being in the womb. Within moments, they often start to relax or drift off to sleep, and that’s when we capture those dreamy, peaceful images everyone loves.
🎶 Setting a Calm Atmosphere
Sound plays a huge role in soothing newborns. Sometimes we’ll turn on white noise or soft music to help create a calm environment. It not only relaxes baby but also helps everyone else unwind.
These small details — cozy light, gentle sounds, and a slow pace — are what make in-home newborn sessions so special. They allow your baby (and you!) to feel completely at ease.
🌿 Keeping You Calm Helps Baby Calm
The most important part of any newborn session isn’t the camera — it’s the atmosphere. Babies are incredibly intuitive, and they can sense when mom is feeling stressed or anxious. That’s why one of my top priorities during your session is to make sure you feel comfortable and supported.
I’ll reassure you throughout the process, remind you that this is all normal, and handle each moment with patience and care. If you’re comfortable, I may even hold and soothe your baby myself — I’ve done this many times!
Your baby doesn’t have to be perfectly calm for us to create beautiful images. Sometimes the most meaningful photos come from the quiet moments in between — a cuddle after tears, a yawn mid-feed, or the gentle way you soothe your baby to sleep.
💛 The Bottom Line
Your newborn session is meant to feel peaceful, flexible, and baby-led. If your little one is fussy, don’t worry for a second — I’ve seen it all, and I’ll help guide you through it. Every baby settles eventually, and every session tells a beautiful story that’s completely unique to your family.
If you’re expecting and looking for a lifestyle newborn photographer in Maplewood, South Orange, or Westfield, NJ, I’d love to help you capture those early days in a calm and natural way — fussy moments included.
👉 Ready to plan your in-home newborn session? [Reach out here] to reserve your date.