What Happens If My Baby Cries During a Newborn Photoshoot?
One of the questions I'm asked most often by new parents is:
"What happens if my baby cries during the photoshoot?"
The simple answer is...
Nothing to worry about.
As a newborn photographer based in my Sidcup studio, I photograph families across Bexley, Sidcup, Welling, Eltham, Chislehurst, Bromley, Greenwich and the surrounding South East London area.
One thing I always tell parents before their session is that newborn photography isn't about expecting babies to behave in a certain way. Every baby is beautifully different, and every session is led entirely by your baby's needs.
Some babies sleep for most of the session, while others prefer plenty of cuddles, feeds and time to settle.
Both are completely normal.
Every Newborn Session Is Baby-Led
Your baby's comfort and safety always come first.
There is never any pressure for your baby to sleep, stay in one pose or settle within a certain amount of time.
If your baby needs feeding, we simply pause.
If they need a cuddle, we pause.
If they need changing or just want to be close to you for a little while, that's absolutely fine too.
My newborn sessions are intentionally relaxed, allowing plenty of time for feeding, comforting and settling whenever it's needed.
If you'd like to know more about how a session flows, you may also enjoy reading my guide on What to Expect at a Newborn Photoshoot.
Crying Is Completely Normal
Many parents worry that crying means the session isn't going well.
In reality, crying is simply how newborn babies communicate.
Your baby may be hungry.
They may need changing.
They may simply want to be held close by mum or dad.
Whatever the reason, we'll gently respond to your baby's needs before continuing whenever they're comfortable.
There is never any pressure to rush.
There's Never Any Rush
One of the biggest differences between newborn photography and many other types of photography is that everything happens at your baby's pace.
I allow around 2–4 hours for every newborn session, giving plenty of time for feeding, changing and settling.
Knowing there's no time pressure helps parents relax, and a calm atmosphere often helps babies feel more settled too.
If you're preparing for your session, you may also find my guide on How to Prepare for Your Newborn Photoshoot helpful.
Some of the Most Beautiful Photographs Happen Between the Poses
Parents often imagine newborn photography as perfectly sleepy, posed photographs.
While those images are beautiful, some of my favourite photographs are actually the little moments in between.
A tiny yawn.
A stretch.
A cuddle with mum.
Dad gently holding tiny fingers.
A peaceful feed.
These genuine moments often become the photographs families treasure the most because they tell the real story of those precious first days.
Please Don't Feel Embarrassed
If this is your first baby, it's completely natural to feel anxious.
Many parents apologise when their baby cries.
Please don't.
I've photographed hundreds of newborns, and every baby is unique.
There are no perfect babies and no perfect sessions.
Only your baby, exactly as they are.
That's what makes your photographs so special.
How You Can Help Your Baby Feel Relaxed
There are a few simple things that can help your newborn feel comfortable during their session:
- Feed your baby shortly before the session if possible.
- Dress them in clothing that's easy to remove.
- Bring extra nappies, milk and any comfort items you normally use.
- Most importantly, try to relax and enjoy the experience.
Babies are incredibly intuitive, and a calm, relaxed atmosphere often helps them settle naturally.
Newborn Photography in Bexley & South East London
From my cosy studio in Sidcup, I photograph newborn sessions for families across Bexley, Sidcup, Welling, Eltham, Chislehurst, Bromley, Greenwich and the surrounding South East London area.
Whether you choose a studio newborn session or an at-home lifestyle session, my approach is always gentle, patient and completely baby-led.
My goal is to create timeless photographs while ensuring both you and your baby feel comfortable from beginning to end.
If you'd like to learn more about my sessions, you're welcome to visit my Newborn Photography page.
Planning Your Newborn Photoshoot
If you're preparing for your newborn session, you may also find these guides helpful:
Together, these guides answer many of the most common questions parents have before their newborn session.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my baby won't sleep?
That's absolutely fine. Every baby is different, and awake photographs can be just as beautiful as sleepy ones.
What if my baby needs feeding several times?
That's completely normal. Newborn sessions include plenty of time for feeding whenever your baby needs it.
Will the session still be successful if my baby cries?
Yes. Crying doesn't mean the session has failed. We simply pause, comfort your baby and continue whenever they're ready.
Should I cancel if my baby is unsettled that day?
Not usually. Most babies have fussy moments, and they're something I work with every day. If your baby is unwell, we can simply rearrange your session.
Ready to Book Your Newborn Session?
If you're looking for a newborn photographer in Bexley or South East London, I'd love to help you capture these precious first days in a calm, relaxed and baby-led environment.
Get in touch to find out more about my newborn photography sessions or to reserve your due date.
Final Thoughts
Every newborn is different.
Some babies sleep peacefully.
Some need extra cuddles.
Some decide they would much rather stay awake and take in the world around them.
Whatever your baby brings to the session, we'll simply work at their pace.
Because newborn photography isn't about perfection.
It's about capturing your baby's unique story, exactly as they are, and preserving those precious first days for your family to treasure forever.
