One of the best parts of being in business for nearly 9 years now is that I get to watch families grow. Some families have been with me from the very beginning. This sweet family came to me for their first baby’s newborn and first-year session and then back for baby number 2!

Getting a studio newborn photo with a sibling is usually at the top of every mom’s most requested list! I get it! You created these two little people and you want their beautiful faces on your wall. Me too!

I would say the majority of siblings fall in the 18 months to 2.5 age range. Definitely one of the hardest to photograph! After many years, I’ve got quite a few tricks up my sleeve (including Smarties candy stocked in the studio 😉 ) to get those most cherished pictures!

Sibling and family photos happen at the beginning of every newborn session for three reasons.

1. It’s hot in the studio to keep your newborn comfortable and sleepy, but that also means you might get a little more sweaty than “new baby glow”.

2. I want you to be able to relax while I photograph your baby. Getting those family shots out of the way first takes the stress off!

3. Jumping right in seems to work best for most kids! If they need time to warm up, we can get the whole family photos first though. Then big brother or sister can hop in for their special sibling photos when they are ready.

Big sister Ella was 18 months old when her baby sister arrived! We used poses that kept baby safe but showed the bond these two girls have from the very start!

Of course, baby sister Olivia had her time in the spotlight too! When I photograph siblings, I always try to do at least one or two sets that complement the older sibling’s photos so they can be displayed together! It’s so fun to compare and contrast from one baby to the next! It’s also important that each child have their own identity too.

What are the must-have photos for your family? Share in the comments below or email me at kate@dearkatestudios.com to start planning your session!