The Secret Sauce: How I Get Newborns to Sleep (And You Can Too!) | South New Jersey Newborn Photographer
South New Jersey Newborn Photographer | The Secret Sauce: How I Get Newborns to Sleep (And You Can Too!)
You know the #1 thing I hear from clients during a newborn session?
“How did you get them to sleep like that? They never sleep like that for me!”
After photographing newborns over the past years, I’ve learned a thing or two about the “art of the snooze.” Want to know the insider tricks of the trade? Let’s dig into how we create those sleepy, curly poses you see in my portfolio—and how you can use these tips at home.
1. Harness the Power of White Noise
This is absolutely critical! If you haven’t yet, invest in a dedicated white noise machine or use a spare tablet/phone that stays in the nursery.
For my South New Jersey newborn sessions, I typically use an app on my phone called White Noise, but you can find great portable machines on Amazon for less than $20.
- Pro Tip: There are several different frequencies to try. While standard white noise is a great baseline, I actually prefer “Pink Noise” for my sessions—it’s a bit deeper and mimics the rhythmic sounds of the womb perfectly.
2. The “Milk Coma” (A Full Belly)
It sounds obvious, right? But it’s the golden rule of newborn photography. I always suggest that moms feed their babies right before we begin the session, and we never hesitate to stop for a “top-up” if the baby gets restless.
Ensuring your newborn has a full belly is the best way to guarantee a solid stretch of deep sleep. If you’re struggling with a nap at home, try a little extra feeding to help them settle into that blissful milk coma.
3. The Art of the Burrito (Swaddling)
You’ll notice that many of my photos of itty-bitty babies involve snug swaddles. That’s because most babies love the security of being wrapped! While there’s always a tiny minority of “wiggle worms” who prefer their freedom, most find it incredibly soothing.
- The Studio Secret: The wraps I use in the studio are longer and stretchier than typical store-bought swaddles, allowing for a snug fit that still breathes.
- At Home: You can try jersey knit fabric for that extra stretch (check with your pediatrician on safe sleep practices first!) or look for swaddles with Velcro for a “cheat code” to a perfect wrap.
4. Keep it Toasty
Babies are used to a very specific climate—they’ve spent the last nine months in a consistent 98.6°F environment!
To keep newborns comfortable and sleepy while they are undressed or in thin wraps, I keep my studio nice and warm. If your little one is struggling to stay asleep at home, try adjusting the thermostat a couple of degrees. Just be careful not to overdo it—if they are heavily swaddled, they stay warm very easily!
5. Turn Down the Lights
While some newborns can sleep through a parade, most benefit from a dedicated sleep environment. Adjusting the lights and installing blackout curtains can be a total game-changer. (Full disclosure: all my kids had blackout curtains, and they were a lifesaver!)
A Final Word: Just Relax
I know, I know—easier said than done!
Here’s the thing, mama: newborns are unpredictable. Just when you think you have the routine figured out, a growth spurt hits, or they suddenly decide they hate the swaddle.
These early days go by in a blur. Even if this is your second, third, or fourth baby, remember that every child is different. You are both learning as you go. Do the best you can, give yourself some grace, and try to sleep when the baby sleeps whenever possible!
I hope these tips help you catch a few more Z’s! Which one of these are you going to try tonight?
Here are our Pinterest boards if you need some inspiration.
Here you can check out our Facebook page to keep up with our events and behind the scenes!
Want to learn more about our newborn sessions? Check out our portfolio here.
Ready to book your next session? Inquire with us here!
South New Jersey Newborn Photographer
