Stressed About Newborn Photos? Here’s What New Moms Really Need to Know | Lancaster Newborn Photographer | Angie Englerth

Worried your newborn won’t sleep or that you won’t feel camera-ready? Lancaster PA newborn photographer Angie Englerth shares how to make your session calm, easy, and beautiful.

Bringing home a new baby is magical, but let’s be honest, it’s also overwhelming. Between sleepless nights, healing, figuring out feeding, and adjusting to a new rhythm, the idea of adding newborn photos to your to-do list can feel like a lot.

If you’re a new mom wondering:

• “What if my baby doesn’t sleep?”

• “What am I even going to wear?”

• “Will I even feel up for it?”

  You’re not alone and you’re not the first mom to feel this way.

I’m Angie Englerth, a Lancaster PA newborn photographer and mama myself. Over the past 10+ years, I’ve photographed hundreds of newborns and walked families through this tender, beautiful season. And what I want you to know is this:

Newborn photos don’t have to feel stressful.
They can actually be peaceful, meaningful, and one of the most special parts of your postpartum journey.

Let’s break down five real reasons newborn sessions feel overwhelming and how to make the process easier from start to finish.

1. “I’m not feeling like myself yet. I don’t know if I want to be in the pictures.”

Choose a photographer who understands the postpartum season and gently guides you through.

You just had a baby. You’re healing. You’re not sleeping. Of course you don’t feel camera-ready. But you also deserve to be seen, not just behind the camera, but in the photos, holding your baby in the very first days of their life.

This season is fleeting, but these images last forever.

I use soft light, flattering angles, and gentle posing so you feel confident, calm, and cared for. You don’t have to know how to pose or “be photogenic.” That’s what I’m here for.

2. “What if my baby cries or doesn’t sleep during the session?”

Work with a photographer trained in newborn behavior and safety.

Here’s the secret: most newborns do cry or fuss at some point. And that’s okay. The best sessions are flexible, baby-led, and unhurried.

In my studio:

• The space is warm, quiet, and designed for comfort

• Sessions include time for feedings, snuggles, and soothing

• I handle your baby with care, patience, and expert safety practices

Your baby’s comfort comes first…always.

3. “I have no idea what to wear. Nothing fits and I’m too tired to shop.”

Let me take care of styling. You don’t need to lift a finger.

I offer a carefully curated client wardrobe with postpartum-friendly dresses for moms, simple classic pieces for baby, and outfit coordination help for siblings too. I can also help you curate your own wardrobe for the session.

That means:

• No shopping trips or last-minute panic

• No worrying if your dress will photograph well

• Just timeless, comfortable pieces that help you feel like you

4. “I want beautiful photos, but I’ll probably never get around to printing them.”

I help you turn your images into heirloom-quality artwork.

So many moms receive a gallery, love the images, and then feel stuck. What should you print? Where do you get it made? How do you design an album?

I walk you through every step so your photos don’t just live on your phone. They become prints you hang, albums you pass down, and reminders of just how small your baby once was.

My full-service process includes:

• A reveal and ordering appointment

• Custom design for albums, wall art, or keepsake boxes

• Easy ordering, with delivery right to your home

5. “I’m afraid I’ll miss the window.”

Book your due date in advance, we’ll stay flexible.

The best time for newborn sessions is between 7–21 days after birth, when babies are still sleepy and curled up. But you don’t have to schedule an exact date just yet.

📆 When you book during your second trimester, I reserve space around your due date and we finalize once your baby arrives. It’s flexible, simple, and one less thing to stress about.

What My Clients Are Saying

“We’ve used Angie for all three of our kids’ newborn photos as well as numerous family sessions and have always been extremely happy with the final product! I highly recommend her as she is patient, exceptionally kind, and a very talented photographer.”
— Katie Eberly

Final Thoughts: You Deserve a Newborn Photo Experience That Feels Like a Gift

This is such a short season, even if it doesn’t feel like it at 3am. The haze of the newborn days will pass, but the images we create together will become part of your family’s legacy.

With a calm, guided process and someone who knows how to make it all feel easy, your newborn session can be one of the best decisions you make during your baby’s first weeks.

Ready to feel cared for and confident and walk away with photos you’ll treasure forever?
Let’s talk about your due date and design a newborn session that fits you perfectly.

👉 Click here to inquire about availability

From Bump to Baby: The Magic of Booking Both Sessions Together | Lancaster PA Maternity & Newborn Photographer

There’s something incredibly special about watching a story unfold in front of my lens from the gentle anticipation of pregnancy to the quiet awe of new life.

While I photograph many beautiful standalone maternity or newborn sessions, some of my favorite galleries…the ones that feel the most complete…are when families choose to document both.

Booking both sessions together is one of the best decisions my clients make. Here’s why.

It Tells the Whole Story

Pregnancy is just the beginning of your journey into motherhood (or into a new chapter of it). When you choose to document both your maternity and newborn seasons, you’re preserving not just what it looked like, but what it felt like. The wonder, the waiting, the love growing before your eyes.

Seeing those images side-by-side? It’s powerful. A full circle moment.

Your Experience Becomes Seamless

When you book both sessions at once, I already know your style, your preferences, and your heart. It allows us to build trust early on so that when baby arrives, you feel confident, relaxed, and fully supported.

You don’t have to start over or explain what matters to you…I already know. You’re not scrambling at the last minute. Everything is already in place.

Your Images Will Feel Cohesive

There’s a visual magic that happens when your maternity and newborn photos are captured with the same artistic eye. The colors, the composition, the emotion. It all flows together beautifully.

Whether you're planning to create an album, hang framed prints, or simply treasure your images, having that cohesive look makes your memories feel even more elevated and intentional.

You’ll Never Regret It

I’ve never had a mom say, “I wish I hadn’t done both sessions.” But I have heard more than a few say, “I wish I’d captured my pregnancy too.”

This season is so special. It’s fleeting. And it deserves to be remembered, not just the day your baby arrived, but the days your heart stretched to make room for them.

Ready to Tell Your Full Story?

If you’re expecting, now’s a great time to reach out. I’d love to chat about capturing both your maternity and newborn sessions so nothing gets missed in this beautiful season. Let’s make something meaningful together from bump to baby, and every tender moment in between.

Send me a message to get started!

A Cozy Evening with the Millen Family | Lancaster PA Newborn Photographer

Three Kids, One Cozy Evening, and a Newborn’s First Portraits

One of the best parts of what I do is watching families grow. When Rebecca reached out to book a newborn session for their third baby, I was genuinely so excited. I’ve photographed their first two little ones, and it felt extra special to help them complete this next piece of their story with the same soft, timeless look they already love.

They chose an evening session this time, which made a big difference. In Rebecca’s words, “We were able to keep our three kids (3, 2, and newborn) on their regular schedule, which helped the photo session go smoothly. They were able to nap, get baths, eat, and be in good spirits at their best part of the day.”

And that’s exactly how the Millens roll. They’re casual, home-loving people who enjoy the simple things: gardening, birdwatching, cooking, building with Legos, and exploring the world from their own backyard. I could feel that energy in their session. It wasn’t about perfect poses or looking a certain way. It was about being together, making each other laugh, and soaking in the sweetness of this season.

Baby Miles slept peacefully, wrapped in a soft blue, with one of the happiest little smiles I’ve ever seen. Rebecca told me that photo is her favorite and I have to agree it’s a good one.

Throughout the session, the girls took turns being silly and sweet. Amelia made us all laugh. Ainsley, true to her independent spirit, let us know exactly when she was done taking photos. I love moments like that because they tell a real story. These aren't just images to fill a frame. They’re pieces of your family’s life, just as it is right now.

Rebecca shared something that really stuck with me. She said, “I’d like to remember the unexpected hugs, kisses, ‘I love yous,’ and those random, sweet moments that come from little kids being so uninhibited.”

Those are the moments that often go unnoticed but mean the most. It reminded me of what so many of us want to hold on to as our babies grow…those genuine, unplanned bursts of love.

To the Millen family: Thank you for coming back to me time and time again. It means the world. Watching your little ones grow and getting to freeze these sweet memories for you is truly an honor.

If you're reading this and thinking about booking a session, I’d love to work with you too. I am currently booking due dates through September with the rest of the year opening very soon! If you want in, now’s a great time to reach out. We can plan something relaxed, real, and totally you.

Let’s make some magic together.

How to Prepare for Your Newborn Photo Session

Preparing for your newborn photo session is an exciting time, and a little preparation can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to help you get ready:

1. Timing

As a newborn photographer, I recommend scheduling your newborn photos when your baby is around 10-14 days old. However, at Angie Englerth Photography, I understand that life happens, and I am very flexible if you cannot get your baby in before then. Newborns are typically sleepier and more amenable to posing during the first two weeks, which helps us capture those precious, peaceful moments, but we can still create beautiful images beyond that timeframe.

2. Feeding and Sleep

A well-fed baby is a content baby. Plan to feed your little one right before the session to encourage a full tummy and a restful sleep. This helps us achieve those serene, sleepy poses that parents love in their newborn photos.

3. Creating a Comfortable Environment

Our studio at Angie Englerth Photography is designed to be warm and cozy, ensuring your baby feels secure. We maintain a comfortable temperature and provide soothing sounds to mimic the womb environment, helping your newborn relax.

4. What to Bring

• Outfits and Accessories: While we provide a variety of props and outfits, feel free to bring any special items you'd like to include in your newborn photos, such as a cherished blanket or heirloom.

• Essentials: Pack extra diapers, wipes, and any feeding supplies you may need. Having these on hand ensures you're prepared for any situation.

5. Family Involvement

Including parents and siblings in the session adds a personal touch to your newborn photos. Coordinate simple, neutral-colored outfits to keep the focus on your family's connections.

6. Patience is Essential

Newborn sessions can last up to 2 hours to accommodate feeding, changing, and soothing. We take the time to ensure your baby is comfortable, allowing for natural and beautiful moments to unfold.

By following these guidelines, we aim to create a relaxed and enjoyable experience, capturing the tender moments of your newborn's early days. If you have any questions or specific requests, please don't hesitate to reach out to your trusted Lancaster Newborn Photographer.

Addison | Lancaster Newborn Photographer | Angie Englerth

Addison

Danielle and Andrew joined me in the studio back in October. Their sweet Addison had arrived and big sister Veronica came along as well! I often get asked if siblings are able to join in on photos at a newborn session. The quick and easy answer is YES! Absolutely! I always include sibling and/or parent photos in every newborn session that would like them! Veronica got started by playing in the playhouse and exploring the studio a bit and then when she was warmed up, she came right over and jumped in some photos with her new baby sister! Addison was an absolute gem to work with and pulled off each and every setup flawlessly! Now I know you came to see some newborn photos and we’re almost there, but I wanted to share some of what Danielle had to say when asked about her experience.

What was your favorite part about our session together?

“I really enjoyed how Angie took control of the session from the start. She took our daughter and began getting her prepped for the session. My husband and I were looking to have our older daughter in some photos and Angie was extremely patient and flexible. She told us she will start taking the newborn photos and when our older daughter was ready and comfortable enough to be in pictures she would accommodate. When our older daughter was ready, we walked over and Angie stopped what she was doing and got her right in the pictures!”

How did you prepare for our photo shoot? How was your experience? Were you nervous or worried before? How did it turn out?

“I felt very unprepared for the photo shoot. I didn’t have outfits picked out or planned. My husband and I were blown away when we saw how many wraps and outfits Angie had to offer for all ages! This immediately calmed my nerves of my pictures coming out terrible because I didn’t plan ahead. Our experience was fantastic. The best part for our older daughter was the little toy kitchen area. That kept her busy while newborn photos were going on. Angie also had a tv on with our daughters favorite show and snacks! Very welcoming for siblings!”

Do you have a favorite photo from your session? If so, which one?

“The pictures of both my daughters together just melts my heart! I also love how Angie captured ONE picture of our newborn smiling!! It’s so hard to capture those moments.”

What would be your advice to someone considering booking with AEP?

“You do not need to bring anything with you to this session!! Angie has everything you need! Maybe a pacifier to calm your newborn through out the session if needed!”

What have been the most memorable parts of this pregnancy?  

“Seeing our girl and her heartbeat at every ultrasound appointment!”

Did you have any pregnancy cravings? What were they?

“Chocolate chip pancakes!!”

Do you have other children? How do they react to the pregnancy?

“We have a 2 year old daughter. We would talk to her about her baby sister everyday. Now that she is here, she is the best helper to mommy and daddy!”


What is your best advice to other moms regarding this age?

“Soak up every second! It’s amazing how quick time goes.”


And now, the part you’re really here for…here are some favorites from Addison’s newborn session!

Rachel & Weston | Lancaster PA Maternity and Newborn Photographer | Angie Englerth

Rachel & Weston

I first met Rachel and Ryan for their maternity photo session. They were busy with new puppies and snuck away for the session. Rachel looked beautiful in every shot and we talked in anticipation of their newborn session. Fast forward a bit and it was time to come back for their newborn session. Weston was wonderful and his session went flawlessly! Ryan and Rachel and their families are big college football fans! Scroll through the favorites to see which team they wanted to feature with Weston’s photos!

Just for fun…here’s some Q&A with Rachel herself:

How did you prepare for our photo shoot? How was your experience? Were you nervous or worried before? How did it turn out?

We didn't do much in preparation for the newborn photos besides venture outside the house. We had a great experience; Weston was totally comfortable with her and all the props and outfits. We could not have been happier with the end results!

What would be your advice to someone considering booking with AEP?

Do it! We did maternity and newborn and very thankful we did so we have those memories forever.

Have we done a session together before? If so, why did you decide to book another?

We originally booked as a package but if we didn't we would have definitely rebooked for newborn shots after our fun experience getting maternity shots done in some not so ideal weather.

What have been the most memorable parts of this pregnancy?

My pregnancy wasn't easy but having maternity shots done highlighted such a monumental time in our lives as a married couple about to welcome a new family member.

Did you have any pregnancy cravings?

Chick Fil-A everything

And now for the part you’re really here for….here are some favorites from their sessions with me!

Rachel & Stella | Lancaster PA Maternity and Newborn Photographer | Angie Englerth

Rachel & Stella

Where do I begin? When Rachel and Jared told us they were expecting, I may have let out a scream! Rachel is Ben’s younger sister and we have been looking forward to this moment for so long! After their long journey to get to this point, we were all thrilled for them! Fast forward to being able to capture Rachel’s maternity photos as well as Stella’s newborn photos, I was honored! I may be biased, but my niece is the cutest!

We had a lot of fun incorporating Mark (their first baby/fur baby) into their maternity session! Then we included their favorite sports teams into Stella’s session! My kids took advantage of the session to sneak a few extra peeks at their cousin! Let’s just get right to it, shall we?! Here are lots of favorites from Rachel’s maternity session as well as Stella’s newborn session!

Emerson & Leona | Lancaster PA Newborn Photographer | Angie Englerth

Emerson & Leona

Twins are always exciting and when Leesha reached out to schedule her maternity and newborn sessions with me, I was thrilled. Her maternity session was magical and the twins session did not disappoint!