Sibling Photos: Expectations vs. Reality in Newborn Photography

Sibling photos are a popular and a heartwarming part of newborn photography sessions. The idea of capturing a moment when the older siblings meet their new baby brother or sister is nothing short of magical.

However, as any newborn photographer will tell you, while the final shot might look serene and perfect, the reality behind capturing that image can be quite different.

As a newborn photographer, here's a peek behind the lens of what we expect versus what actually happens when photographing siblings with a newborn:

Expectation #1: The Perfect Moment of Connection

Expectation: We envision siblings gently holding hands or tenderly kissing their new baby brother or sister. They will be positioned in the perfect lighting, gazing lovingly at the newborn, creating an image full of warmth and love.

Reality: Siblings, especially young ones, are often a little confused, unsure, or even a bit overwhelmed by the presence of the newborn. They may not fully understand the significance of the moment or what they’re supposed to do. Getting them to sit still, let alone be in the exact pose we imagined, can be a bit of a challenge. A lot of the time, they’re more interested in fidgeting or even running around, which makes capturing that perfect moment more difficult than expected.

Expectation #2: Siblings Will Be All Smiles

Expectation: The idea is that the older sibling will be happy, calm, and cooperative throughout the session.

We expect joyful smiles, gentle touches, and a bond that’s captured effortlessly.

Reality: While some older siblings are excited to be part of the shoot, others might feel jealous or apprehensive about the new addition to the family. A toddler might feel overwhelmed by the new baby and not be interested in participating in the photo session at all. And even if they do participate, the smiles can be fleeting and may require multiple takes, distractions, or even bribery. Sometimes, getting a natural smile can take more time and patience than expected. I have a prize box for my big siblings for them to choose something afterwards to show them how great they did. You best believe (with moms permission) I bribe the heck out of them with a toy!

Expectation #3: All Sibling Photos Will Be Picture-Perfect

Expectation: We imagine every sibling photo will be Instagram-worthy, showcasing the perfect pose, perfect lighting, and perfect expressions. Everything will align seamlessly to create a stunning family memory.

Reality: The reality is that sibling photos rarely go according to plan. Sometimes, one sibling might be crying while the other looks perfectly serene. Or perhaps, the newborn might be perfectly calm, but the older sibling has decided they want to run around or show their "silly face" for the camera. And, while we can work wonders with lighting, positioning, and patience, there are some moments that simply don’t go according to the script. That’s where the real beauty lies—in capturing the candid, authentic emotions of the siblings, even if it’s not exactly how we envisioned it.

Expectation #4: A Smooth, Quick Session

Expectation: We expect sibling photos to be a smooth part of the overall newborn session—quick and easy to get. After all, we’ve already captured the newborn’s individual shots, so the sibling portion should just flow seamlessly.

Reality: Sibling photos can take longer than anticipated, especially with younger children. They may need breaks, encouragement, or even a little distraction to get them in the mood for the photos. Trying to get everyone, including the newborn, comfortable in the right position, while ensuring the siblings stay engaged, can take time and patience. It's also common to have the siblings want to take breaks or simply not want to participate, requiring flexibility from both the photographer and the family.

Expectation #5: A Calm and Relaxed Environment

Expectation: We expect a peaceful, relaxed environment for sibling photos—everyone is calm, the newborn is asleep, and the older siblings are content. Everything is serene and composed.

Reality: The environment, especially with young children, can be far from calm. The newborn may start to fuss, the siblings might become restless, or they could start to argue over something as simple as where they should sit. Additionally, sibling dynamics can shift quickly, making it a bit of a juggling act. While we strive to create a peaceful atmosphere, it’s not always possible, and the session may have its chaotic moments.

How to Make It Work: Tips for Newborn Photographers

1. Be Patient: This is the most important part in my opinion.

Children, especially younger siblings, may need time to warm up to the idea of being in front of the camera. Be ready to adjust your expectations and go with the flow.

2. Involve Parents: Parents can help guide the older sibling through the process and ensure they feel safe and supported during the shoot. 

3. Use Distractions: Sometimes, the trick is to distract the older sibling with a favorite toy, song, or activity to get them in a happy mood.

4. Capture the Candid Moments: Not everything has to be posed. Sometimes the most beautiful sibling shots are the ones where they’re interacting naturally with each other, even if it's not picture-perfect.

5. Safety First: When photographing siblings with a newborn, always prioritize the baby’s safety. Have the parents close by to assist, and be ready to take breaks as needed.

Conclusion

Sibling photos are a beautiful and important part of any newborn session, but they come with their fair share of challenges. Expectations may not always align with reality, but that’s part of the beauty of capturing these moments. The real magic happens in those authentic, raw moments—whether they’re a peaceful kiss on the forehead or a funny face captured in the middle of a chaotic scene. As a newborn photographer, embracing these imperfections is what makes these photos truly special and meaningful for families for years to come.