One of the best compliments a photographer can ever receive is being invited back by a family to photograph their newest addition! It’s an honor to be welcomed into their home again to document the next chapter in their family story.
A newborn session for a first baby is a bit of a different experience than one for a second baby, especially when there’s now a toddler in the mix. If you’re expecting baby #2 and wondering what your session might look like this time around, let’s talk about the differences; why both are special, why they’re never quite the same, and why that’s actually a good thing.
In this post, I’m sharing images from a session with a wonderful family who first invited me into their home to photograph their first son, and then again for their second! It’s always so special to see that once-tiny baby a few years later, now stepping into their new role as a big brother or sister.
The First Baby’s Newborn Session: Calm, Quiet, and All About Baby
When you have your first baby, the whole world slows down. Your days (and sleepless nights) revolve around this tiny, brand-new human. It’s all about soaking in every little detail and your newborn session reflects that.
The first session is all about the baby. It’s usually very peaceful, the parents are hyper-focused on their sweet new baby, and everything is carefully planned. The house is probably tidier (because there’s no toddler tornado running through it yet), and there’s a lot of patience for the process.
Parents are often a mix of excited and nervous, wanting everything to go smoothly. They’re adjusting to parenthood and savoring this first-time experience.
The Second Baby’s Newborn Session: A Whole New Dynamic
Then baby #2 arrives. And suddenly, the session is no longer just about the newborn; it’s about the whole family, especially that brand-new sibling relationship.
If the first session was quiet and structured, the second one is… let’s just say, more spontaneous. Toddlers have their own agendas, and whether or not they’re in the mood for photos? Well, that’s up to them.
And that’s more than okay. I always remind parents that the baby and toddler run the show. I just pivot and adapt to their needs to keep the session flowing smoothly. But after 15 years of photographing a ton of newborn + sibling sessions, I have a lot of tricks up my sleeve!
Instead of just focusing on the newborn shots, we get to capture the in-between moments like the toddler sneaking in for a quick kiss, giggling as they “help” with the baby, or running off mid-shot because they struggle to sit still. (that is not only ok, but expected!) These sessions are full of personality, and while they might not be as predictable, they’re often even more meaningful.
Parents tend to be more relaxed the second time around, too. They’ve been through this before, so there’s less worry about making everything perfect and more of a “go with the flow” attitude. And honestly? That mindset makes for some of the best, most authentic photos.
Embracing the Beautiful Chaos
A second baby’s session isn’t just about the perfectly posed images, it’s about storytelling. It’s about capturing this fleeting, messy, and beautiful real life.
Of course I’ll get some quiet newborn moments, but we’ll also embrace the unpredictability of toddler energy, letting them be part of the session in whatever way feels right for them. Sometimes that means snuggling their new sibling, sometimes it means playing nearby, and sometimes it means running off for a snack break mid-photo (because toddlers have priorities). Snack breaks are always welcome during our session, and you can bet I’ll capture plenty of photos of your toddler just being their silly, wonderful self.
And that’s what makes these sessions so special. They’re not just about the baby, they’re about the new family dynamic.
At the end of the day, whether it’s your first baby or your second (or third, or fourth…), every newborn session is special in its own way. The first is all about the magic of new beginnings, while the second is about the growing bonds and the beautiful, sometimes messy, reality of family life.
No two sessions will look the same, and that’s exactly why they’re worth capturing.
If you live in New Castle, Pa (or the greater Pittsburgh area) and thinking about a newborn session (whether it’s for your first baby or your second) I’d love to help document this chapter for you. Reach out, and let’s create something beautiful together.
Be sure to check out my fellow photographer, Megan Marlene Photography! She specializes in newborn photography in Anchorage, Ak, and has a great post about when a newborn session should take place!
If you’re looking for a family photographer in Neshannock Township, New Castle, Nashua, Volant, Oakwood, Wilmington, Pulaski or other areas of Lawrence County, please get in touch to inquire about a session! I’d love to plan a unique photo session for your family!
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All images by Mary Beth Miller Photography Mary Beth Miller is a family and newborn photographer in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and many of the surrounding areas. Mary Beth has over thirteen years of experience photographing families, newborns, and babies in Pittsburgh including areas in Lawrence and Butler Counties. Her style is very relaxed and natural and your photo session will feel like a stress-free Sunday afternoon with your family!
So so sweet. All of these images will be treasured. ♡
I love how you make the older siblings feel equally special and included
This is really helpful to know ahead of time. Love that you make big brother/sister feel included too!
LOVE these kinds of sessions – so sweet!
Things change so much when second, third… babies join the family but that just means there is more love to photograph! Beautiful images!