As a Germany newborn photographer, one of the most rewarding moments is capturing the bond between siblings, especially in those early days when a new baby is welcomed into the family. Sibling photos are often some of the most cherished images parents will keep for years to come. However, as much as we want to create picture-perfect moments, managing expectations for these types of shots can be a challenge.

Kids are unpredictable, and when there’s a newborn involved, the dynamic shifts. The good news is that with some careful planning and an understanding of what’s realistic, sibling photos can turn out beautifully, even if they don’t always go according to plan. In this blog post, I’ll share some tips on how to manage expectations for sibling photos during newborn sessions so everyone walks away with something special.

1. Be Realistic About What to Expect

First and foremost, it’s important to remember that young children—especially toddlers—don’t always cooperate in the way we might hope. Expecting them to sit perfectly still, smile at the camera, and gently hold their new sibling might not be a realistic goal. And that’s okay!

Some siblings may feel shy, unsure, or even a little jealous when meeting their new baby for the first time. Others might be excited and a little too energetic. These natural emotions will come through in the photos, and that’s perfectly fine! I encourage parents to relax and enjoy the experience, as these “imperfect” moments often lead to the most authentic and heartfelt images.

2. Timing Is Everything

Timing plays a huge role in ensuring sibling photos go smoothly. It’s essential to consider the schedule and energy levels of both the newborn and the older sibling(s) during the session. Typically, newborn sessions are scheduled within the first 10 days of life when they are still sleepy and flexible, but this doesn’t mean we should ignore the older sibling’s needs.

For sibling photos, I recommend capturing these shots early on, before the newborn gets too fussy or before the older sibling gets bored or restless. Toddlers have short attention spans, so it’s best to make the sibling shots a priority in the beginning. A quick 10-15 minute session can often yield the most relaxed and genuine images.

3. Plan for Movement and Chaos

Siblings, especially younger ones, can’t be expected to sit perfectly still for long periods, and the beauty of sibling photos is often found in their candid, natural interactions. I always try to create an environment where the older sibling feels comfortable and relaxed. That may mean letting them move around a bit, run their fingers through their baby sibling’s hair, or give them a gentle kiss or cuddle.

If your toddler isn’t in the mood to pose with the baby, that’s totally normal. I may ask them to sit beside the baby, give them a soft touch, or even help “hold” the baby’s hand if they’re feeling active. In these moments, we allow the sibling to be themselves, and sometimes that’s when we get the best shots—whether it’s a smile, a look of curiosity, or even a funny expression.

4. Involve the Sibling in the Process

One of the best ways to get your child excited and involved in the session is by making them feel like they’re part of the process. I like to involve older siblings by letting them choose a special prop, like a blanket or stuffed animal, or by giving them a small role in the photoshoot. For example, they can “help” by giving the baby a kiss or holding the baby’s hand (with assistance, of course).

Sometimes, I’ll also give them a chance to take a break with something they enjoy, like a favorite book or toy, before asking them to come back for a few more photos. The key here is making them feel comfortable and engaged so they associate the session with positive feelings, rather than stress or pressure.

5. Work With the Older Sibling’s Personality

Every child is different. Some children are naturally calm and more reserved, while others are high-energy and love being the center of attention. I always try to assess the older sibling’s personality and adapt accordingly.

For more introverted children, I may take a slower, quieter approach and offer more reassurance, allowing them to approach their newborn sibling at their own pace. For energetic kids, I might let them jump around a bit or even let them hold their sibling briefly to help them feel comfortable. The goal is to find a balance that allows their personality to shine through while keeping the moment gentle and safe for the newborn.

6. Prepare for a Bit of Chaos

Sometimes, the best sibling photos come from a bit of chaos—laughing, running around, or even the older sibling’s excitement getting the best of them. I always encourage parents to let go of the idea that everything has to be perfect. After all, this is a moment in time, and capturing the true emotions of a family is far more meaningful than a staged, “perfect” shot.

That being said, if things don’t go as planned or the sibling isn’t feeling cooperative, I focus on getting one or two natural shots that still tell a beautiful story. If the sibling isn’t interested in posing with the baby, I may capture a candid shot of them interacting in a playful way, or even focus on their reaction from afar. These moments are real, they’re raw, and they’re full of love.

7. Focus on the Connection, Not the Pose

At the end of the day, the most important thing in sibling photos is the connection between the children. Whether the older sibling is smiling with the baby or simply gazing at them in awe, the bond that’s beginning to form is what makes these photos so meaningful. It’s less about getting everyone in the perfect pose and more about capturing the emotion in that moment.

I like to focus on the sibling’s gaze, the softness of a hand gently placed on the baby, or the way the older sibling looks at their new sibling. Even the moments of uncertainty or curiosity are valuable, as they reflect the natural transition happening in the family.

8. Keep it Short and Sweet

Finally, sibling sessions should be brief. Kids (and adults) have limited patience during these types of photoshoots, so I keep the sibling shots short and sweet. I make sure to keep things fun, relaxed, and lighthearted. I’ll often show the older sibling a preview of the photos on my camera to keep them engaged and excited.

When you manage expectations and create an environment that’s fun and easygoing, the sibling photos will feel natural, authentic, and full of love.

Conclusion

Sibling photos during a newborn session can be one of the most treasured parts of the entire shoot. However, it’s important to approach these moments with patience, flexibility, and a healthy sense of humor. Not every photo will be perfect, and that’s exactly what makes them so special. With the right preparation and mindset, you’ll walk away with a beautiful collection of images that capture the bond between your children in all its raw, beautiful, and sometimes chaotic glory.

So, to all the parents out there preparing for a newborn session with siblings—don’t stress! Trust the process, embrace the unpredictability, and let the magic unfold.