Revealing My Favorite Tricks to Help Your Newborn Sleep (And How You Can Try Them at Home)
One of the most common things I hear from parents during sessions is:
“How did you get my newborn sleep like that? They never sleep that well for me!”
As a newborn photographer with more than 16 years of experience, I’ve photographed hundreds of babies. And trust me—every single one of them has their own quirks when it comes to sleep. Over the years, I’ve discovered simple but powerful tricks that help little ones drift off peacefully.
If you’re wondering how to encourage better baby sleep at home (and during your session), here are my go-to tips.
White Noise Magic
White noise is a lifesaver for soothing babies into dreamland. I always bring my trusty Baby Shusher to sessions—it’s small, portable, and creates a calming rhythm that mimics the womb.
At home, you can experiment with different white noise machines or apps. Try the standard “white noise” first, but don’t be afraid to test out “pink noise” or other variations to see what works best for your baby. Consistency is key—keep it playing in the background to signal that it’s time to rest.
A Full Belly = Better Sleep
It may sound obvious, but a baby with a full tummy sleeps so much more soundly. That’s why I encourage parents to feed right before we begin a newborn session. We also take breaks for “top-ups” whenever needed—because a comfortable, well-fed baby is a sleepy baby.
You can use this same trick at home: feeding right before naps often helps babies settle into longer stretches of rest.
The Power of the Swaddle
There’s a reason so many of my photos feature beautifully swaddled little ones—babies love the snug, secure feeling. It reminds them of the womb and keeps those startle reflexes from waking them.
In the studio, I use longer, stretchier fabrics than what you usually find in stores, but you can also try Velcro swaddles or jersey knit fabrics at home. Every baby is different, so it may take a bit of trial and error to find the perfect swaddle style for yours.
Keep Things Cozy and Warm
Babies are used to warmth—they spent nine months in a cozy environment! While I personally don’t love being hot (hello, perimenopause!), I always keep my studio warm for sessions.
At home, a slightly warmer room (paired with a safe swaddle) can help your baby sleep more soundly. Just be careful not to overheat—comfortably warm is the sweet spot.
Dim the Lights
Soft, low lighting or blackout curtains can make a big difference in helping babies recognize it’s time for rest. While some newborns can sleep anywhere, creating a calm, dim environment encourages longer stretches of sleep. Bonus: it works wonders for parents too!
Relax and Go With the Flow
Here’s the truth, mama: babies love to keep us on our toes. One day a trick works like magic, and the next day… not so much. Growth spurts, developmental leaps, or simply their personality can all change the game.
Give yourself grace. These early days can feel overwhelming, but they pass quickly. Every baby is unique, and you’re both learning together. Do your best, rest when you can, and remember—you’ve got this.
Want to See These Baby Sleep Tricks in Action?
If you’d love to capture timeless images of your little one while they’re at their sleepiest and sweetest, I’d be honored to help. My newborn photography Frederick MD sessions are designed to keep babies comfortable, calm, and (most importantly) peacefully sleeping while we create memories you’ll cherish forever.
Click here to learn more about booking your newborn session with me!
