BABY #2: Should you bring #1 to the session?

Baby #2 arrived making you a joyous family of 4 …

but oh boy can it be a handful when baby number 1 is still in diapers.

So how do you balance your desire to have the whole family included in this important newborn photo session with your desire for a stress free few hours where you can focus on the newest arrival and give them all the love and attention you gave your first?    

The questions many parents struggle with is…..

do you bring baby #1 to baby #2’s newborn session? 

My answer has to do with two things:  expectations and patience.  I can say that generally, but not always, the older the sibling the easier it is.  If big sister is 5 it’s going to be a lot easier that if big sister is 2 (again not always).   That said if it’s important to have everyone take part here are a few tips to make it less stressful and more fun!

First, if you can bring someone with you; grandparents, aunt, nanny that’s a great option (and a further photo opportunity). This way they can entertain big brother or sister while you focus on the baby.  Even if mom and dad just tag team hanging out with one child while the other concentrates on the baby.  I do NOT recommend relying on phones or i-pads as they are very hard to pry away from your toddler when it’s time for them to be in the photos.  

Secondly, if your toddler isn’t feeling the vibe THAT’S OKAY! There is no need to stress or get frustrated… this amazing dad was wonderful with his two-year old daughter when she decided all she wanted to do with sit on the pretty couch and play. Fine, let’s play… you’d be surprised how far a little patience and good humor will go.  The important thing is to be flexible and keep everything in perspective.   With this in mind we were able to get a few images of baby and big sister and the whole family before she was clearly done and ready to go home. 

Our little guy was also not so happy to sleep for us at first but mom was calm and good humored and with a little time and a lot of love we got him to sleep just enough to get those adorable shots the family will have forever.

Remember, it’s all okay. Relax, be flexible, set your expectations where they need to be and have patience. It will all work out in the end.