My Favorite Newborn Photography Props and Why I Love Them

There’s nothing quite like those first tiny yawns, wrinkly fingers & toes, and the sleepy stretches of a newborn. These moments pass so quickly, and with the right props, we can take your images from 'Blah' to 'Mwah'!

In my newborn sessions, I love using props that are safe, versatile, and those that add a touch of magic to every photo. Here are some of my absolute favorites and why they work so well.

THE POSING BUCKET

The posing bucket is a staple in my studio & I love it because....

Customizable Designs – This bucket - yes, all of these are the same bucket - has a huge variety of magnetic panels that just stick straight onto the front and inside the top back allowing me to create different looks without having to buy & store 1,000 different buckets. I do have to store the magnetic pieces but that is far easier than keeping a ton of buckets on hand. And if there is a color or design that I don't have I can easily use a fabric wrap clipped in the back allowing me to match a bucket to any of your color requests!

Safe Support – Inside of the bucket are specially designed support pieces. There is one large piece that sits along the entire front for baby to rest against and it has a thicker edge on the top that allows baby to have a comfortable place for their arms to rest on, versus just the thin edge of the bucket rim - which isn't comfortable at all for tiny baby arms.

There are also three circle pieces made of the same material that are placed on the bottom of the bucket - depending on baby's size these pieces can be added or removed, custom fitting every baby to fit in the bucket perfectly. For safety of the baby, you don't want them too low in the bucket because then they will have to stretch their necks up which can be dangerous for them. And we don't want baby in the bucket too high because as little as they are they can be mighty and often startle, pushing themselves forward which could cause the bucket to tip. Which should not happen anyway if you are sitting directly in front of baby with a hand always spotting them or even better, using a whole separate person to be the official baby spotter. And safety aspects aside, posing a baby too low or too high in a bucket just doesn't look good.

Versatility – The most common pose for the buckets is the one in the images above but every once in a while, there will be a baby who does not like this pose and that can be for a variety of reasons. It's possible they are uncomfortable raising their arms up & out, some babies are simply tighter than others and sometimes it could just be a gassy belly. When this happens, we can wrap baby up and place them upright in the bucket or tipped to the side with a little pillow under their head.

TINY BEDS

There’s something about seeing a newborn on a tiny bed that just melts my heart - it reminds me of stories from a children's storybook. I love using them because....

Peaceful Poses – Babies look so peaceful lying on their bellies, making the perfect sleepy images. Babies lying curled up on their bellies is also a very natural pose for them and one 90% of them will be agreeable to.

Wardrobe Flexibility – Everyone loves the teeny tiny outfits I have for my newborn clients, and they simply just look cute wearing them on a little bed. Many of my tiny outfits have adorable little backs so posing baby on their belly this way allows you to see the cute little tied ribbons, suspenders or pockets on their booty's.

Endless Styling Options – I have such a variety of beds, mattresses, sheets, pillows & pillowcases, etc. I could probably find a way to never repeat an exact set up for the rest of my career!

SHALLOW BASKETS OR BOWLS

Baskets and bowls are classic props in newborn photography for good reason! I love using them because....

Posing Versatility – Babies can be wrapped, swaddled, or dressed in cute outfits, allowing me to create completely different looks in the same prop.

Safe Containment – When properly lined and padded, baskets give babies a secure and snug environment for posing.

Textural Layers – With soft blankets, fur, or knitted wraps, baskets add depth and dimension to every photo. I also love to add florals and greenery.

Size Appeal – These props highlight just how tiny and delicate newborns are, making memorable images of your newborn.

WHY PROPS MATTER

While it’s tempting to think newborn photography is just about the baby, props play a big role in your session as well.

Safety – Well-designed props help keep babies secure while allowing creative poses.

Storytelling – Props help tell a story, from cozy, sleepy vibes to playful or whimsical setups.

Customization – Different props, textures, and outfits mean each session feels unique and personal.

Timeless Memories – Thoughtful props enhance the overall image, helping parents remember these first precious days for years to come.

Using my favorite props, my goal is to capture the tiny details, peaceful poses, and those first days of life that pass by so quickly. Each session is a combination of artistry, safety, and creativity so that every image is one that parents will treasure forever.