Owatonna Minnesota Newborn Photographer

Welcoming a new baby is a big moment for the whole family—and that includes big brothers and sisters! As a newborn photographer based in Owatonna, MN, I absolutely love capturing the sweet connection between siblings during our newborn sessions. These photos are some of the most cherished for parents, and they’re always filled with so much love (and sometimes a little chaos—but that’s okay, too!).

Still, I totally understand that bringing toddlers or young children into a longer newborn session can feel overwhelming. That’s why I want to share what you can expect and how we can work together to keep things as smooth and stress-free as possible for everyone.

Five siblings wearing coordinated outfits lay in a circle on a gray rug looking down at the camera.
Small figure in an oversized cream sweater covers mouth while curled up against a light background.
A gentle moment captured as a young woman in a beige tank top tenderly holds and gazes at a sleeping newborn baby.

We Start with Sibling & Family Photos First

Little ones usually have the most energy and cooperation at the beginning of the session, so we’ll start with sibling and family photos right away. Whether it’s a sweet kiss on the baby’s head or a giggle-filled snuggle, we’ll work quickly to capture those moments while big siblings are still fresh and happy.


What Happens After the Sibling Photos?

Once we've captured those sibling shots, I always recommend having a plan for what the older kids can do during the rest of the session. Newborn sessions can take 2–3 hours, and that’s a long time for a toddler to wait in a quiet environment. Here are a few options that have worked wonderfully for past clients:

  • Have a Parent or Family Member Take Them Out: There are several nearby parks, coffee shops, and even kid-friendly places in Owatonna where your partner, parent, or friend can take your older child after we’re done with their portion of the session.
  • Bring Entertainment: I do keep a few toys and activities in the studio to help keep siblings busy for short periods, but you’re welcome to bring books, tablets with headphones, snacks (non-messy ones, please!), or small toys from home to keep them entertained.
  • Tag Team It: If you’d rather not leave, we can always work in short breaks and keep the sibling nearby, depending on their age and personality. I’m flexible and always happy to adjust the flow of the session to fit your family’s needs.


A Few Quick Tips for Sibling Success

  • Talk About It Ahead of Time: Let your child know what to expect and how exciting it is to take pictures with their new sibling.
  • Bring Bribes (No Shame!): Think fruit snacks, M&Ms, or a promised ice cream stop afterward—small rewards go a long way.
  • Dress Them Comfortably: Choose outfits that look cute but still allow your little one to move and feel good.


The Goal: A Stress-Free, Memory-Filled Experience

My job is to make this process as easy and enjoyable for you as possible. Whether your child is camera-shy, full of energy, or somewhere in between—I’ve got plenty of tricks up my sleeve. Including siblings in your newborn session is a beautiful way to tell your family's story, and I promise to capture those real, heartfelt moments in a way you’ll treasure forever.


Have questions or want to book your session? Reach out—let’s create some magic together!

Five siblings in coordinated green and cream outfits pose together for a classic studio portrait against a neutral backdrop.
A peaceful newborn swaddled in beige fabric lies next to someone on a plush gray blanket.
Family portrait in neutral tones with beige and cream clothing against minimal studio backdrop.
Three people lying on a plush carpet wearing white outfits seen from above in a heartwarming intimate portrait.
A young child in a lace-trimmed dress sits cross-legged while holding a swaddled newborn against a light background.
A person and infant wearing matching white knits lie together on a soft grey fur rug.
A tender sibling portrait shows gentle cradling of a sleeping infant on a neutral backdrop.
Three smiling children laying together on a fuzzy rug wearing white clothing and hair bows.
Two children sitting together on a light backdrop, one holding a small infant in a brown shirt and sandals.
Two people in pink and beige tones sitting together in a gentle embrace with lace details and soft lighting.
A tender moment shows a child lovingly embracing a sleeping baby on a beige backdrop, both wearing matching white bows.