How to capture twice the love during a twin newborn session - Tips for newborn photographers

Arrival and Setup

When the twins and their parents arrive at the studio or designated location, the first step is to create a warm and inviting environment. Your studio should have comfortable seating for the babies parents where they can relax during the photo session.  At my studio I have a couch and 2 chairs in a separate room which is open to the shooting space.  Many newborn parents take this opportunity to stretch out and have a much needed nap or catch up on social media or their e-mails.  

Preparation and Safety

Before starting the session, it's essential to check all props, blankets, and equipment to ensure they are clean and safe for handling newborns. The photographer should also have a plan for the handling of both babies to ensure their safety and comfort throughout the session.  If you don't have an assistant, you can easily utilize one of the parents when necessary. Many parents love being involved in the session.  

Posing the Twins

Posing newborn twins can be challenging but also incredibly rewarding. The photographer often uses a variety of setups, including:

• Side by Side: Positioning the twins lying next to each other on a soft blanket or prop.
• Curled Up Together: Capturing them in a natural, curled-up position resembling their time in the womb.
• On Top of Each Other: Gently stacking them, ensuring that they are safely supported.
• Individual Shots: Taking some time to focus on each twin individually, highlighting their unique features.
• Inform Parents:  Posing options and preferences should be discussed with the babies parents prior to their photography session.  As a newborn photographer I always ask parents what they are looking forward to capturing.  If parents request posing that you have not been trained in or that you simply don't do, it is important that you explain this ahead of time to manage their expectations and ensure that they will be happy with the outcome. 

Using Props and Accessories

Props play a significant role in newborn photography. For twins, complementary props can be used, such as:

• Baskets: Placing twins together in a basket or wooden bowl.
• Blankets: Using color-coordinated blankets for a visually pleasing setup.  
• Swaddles: Wrapping each baby in matching or contrasting swaddles for added charm.

You can see some of these methods and props used pictured below.

The prop and color options should be discussed with the parents prior to the session so you can be set up and ready to go when they arrive.  Not all photographers provide props or have a limited selection.  Let the parents know what their options are and whether or not they need to bring anything.  I let my parents know that I will provide everything needed to style their session.  If they have anything personal they'd like included I ask parents to let me know ahead of time so I can plan accordingly.  For my newborn set ups, I like to give parents one favorite color choice and then include a neutral option such as cream, white, tan or beige. This will ensure their gallery is cohesive and will provide parents with timeless images to display in their home.  

Challenges and Adaptations

During the session, unexpected challenges may arise, such as one baby waking up or becoming fussy while the other is calm. The photographer must be patient and adaptable, using techniques such as:

• Singing or soothing sounds to calm the babies.  There are several varieties of noise machines you can purchaser your studio.  
• Taking breaks to allow for feeding and comfort as needed.  My newborn session prep advises parents to give their newborns a full feeding prior to arrival.  There may be circumstances when this isn't possible or their newborn has reached a "snacking" or "cluster feeding stage" in which case parents need to be prepared to feed baby during the session.  In my Visalia newborn studio I have a designated private room with a cozy rocking chair where moms can nurse their baby.  If mom's are pumping or using formula, it is advised that she brings a bottle for baby.

Wrap-Up

As the session concludes, the photographer often captures some final shots of the twins with their parents, celebrating the joy of their new family dynamic. Many parents of newborns are sleep deprived, exhausted and overwhelmed and it takes all their energy just to get their newborn to the studio.  Be compassionate and honor whatever they are comfortable with at the time.  Remind them that they can return for a family photo in a few months and still capture a beautiful memory with their new baby.  After the session, the photographer ensures that the parents feel satisfied and have a plan for how the images will be edited and delivered.  

Post-Session Follow-Up

After the photography session, the photographer should communicate with the parents about the timeline for the edited photos and provide any additional information they may need about the process.   Even if the photographer has explained this prior to their session, remind them how long it will take for them to see their images, whether you are a photographer who schedules in person sales appointments or one who delivers images on line.  In my studio, I give my parents the option to view their images in person or online. I will discuss more on the sales process I use in another blog post.