A Real Look at Austyn’s Session with Newborn Photographer Markie Jones
You know what you almost never hear from your newborn photographer? That sometimes your brand-new baby will look you dead in the eye and say (with their tiny, nonverbal energy), “Nope, sleep is for the weak.” And that’s exactly what little Austyn did for her newborn session at our studio this past March. But guess what? That didn’t stop us one bit from capturing beautiful, meaningful memories for her family and if you’re a mom planning your own newborn session (especially with older kiddos or a blended family), you’re going to want to take notes. Because this session? It was real life, full of real love, and a perfect example of how documentary magic happens, even when babies don’t follow the script.
Markie Jones, Mom + Newborn Photographer
Hi. I’m Markie Jones. Aka: Mom, Wifey and Newborn Photographer. I prefer to have fun with my clients, and sessions filled with laughter… even if it’s because we’re trying to replicate your grandma’s favorite JC Penny Studio Portrait and failing miserably. Today, I want you to know that your newborn doesn’t have to sleep like a baby (who came up with that anyway) in order to create meaningful, memorable portraits that you’ll want to showcase in your home.
Meet Austyn: The Star Who Refused to Sleep
Austyn’s session was everything I love about being a newborn photographer and photographing families. It was chaotic, tender, emotional, and laugh-out-loud funny at times. She came to the studio with her proud parents and siblings in tow. Mark and his family were so ready to celebrate this sweet new chapter together, and I could already tell we were going to have a blast, even if baby girl had different plans.
Right out the gate, Austyn let us know she was staying awake for her close-up. While most newborns drift off into cozy snuggles about 15 minutes into wrapping, Austyn was WIDE awake. Like, making eye contact and watching my every move awake.
But here’s the thing: when you hire a newborn photographer, you’ll quickly learn sleepy babies are not required to have a great newborn session. Some of my favorite images have come from wide-eyed babes who are simply curious about this big, new world they’ve landed in. Austyn gave us so many expressive looks with wrinkled brows, smirks, and soft alert stares, that ended up telling a powerful story of who she is right now. Because let’s be honest, how often do we remember how alert our babies were at just a few days old?
Including Siblings in a Newborn Session: Chaos & Connection
Now let’s talk about the real MVPs of this session: Austyn’s older siblings. When you’re blending families, adding a new baby into the mix can come with all the feelings, excitement, protectiveness, maybe a little hesitation. That’s why I always, always start with family portraits first. It gives everyone a chance to warm up, feel seen, and be reminded that this new baby doesn’t change their place in the family, it simply makes the love grow.
Here’s how we handled it (and how you can too if you’ve got big kids at home):
1. Let them lead
Big siblings are often way more comfortable when they aren’t being forced to sit still and smile. I encourage gentle interactions, like touching baby’s toes, kissing their forehead, or just snuggling in close. Candid moments are gold.
2. Give them a job
Sometimes just having a job, like helping pick a headband or choosing the next wrap color, makes them feel like an important part of the day. (Spoiler: they are!)
3. Respect their space
Some kids need a minute to warm up. I always keep the mood light and playful, and I never pressure anyone to participate. It’s all about gentle encouragement and reading the room.
And because this was a studio session at our studio here in Tacoma, we had plenty of space for siblings to chill between shots. Snacks, toys, iPads, it’s all welcome here, because this isn’t about perfection. It’s about preserving the moment.
When Your Newborn Won’t Sleep During the Session (It’s OK, Promise!)
Okay, back to sweet Austyn. After our family portraits, we moved into more of the traditional posed newborn portion. You know the dreamy, curled-up baby shots you see on Pinterest? Those usually require a super sleepy baby. But Austyn said “Nah, not today.”
But that’s where experience (and a whole lotta patience) comes in. As your go-to Tacoma newborn photographer, I’ve seen it all; cluster feeding marathons, blowouts on the beanbag (RIP that white swaddle), and babies who will only chill if they’re wrapped tighter than a burrito. I’ve learned to go with the flow and prioritize what your baby is communicating.
Austyn loved being wrapped, so we leaned into that. We used soft, textured wraps that gave her just the right amount of cozy comfort, keeping her calm and content while she took in her surroundings. Her photos are full of those gentle wrap poses, wrapped in sage, her tiny fingers peeking out, her eyes big and bold. It was such a powerful reminder that you don’t have to force anything to create stunning, heirloom-worthy images.
Here are my top tips for when your newborn decides a nap is not on the schedule:
1. Embrace the awake shots
They’re rare and beautiful. Your baby will never be this little again, and capturing their curiosity is just as valuable as those sleepy shots.
2. Trust your photographer
We’ve got all the tricks: white noise, warmers, wraps, and pacing strategies. And if all else fails? We pivot. My documentary style means we don’t need to force perfection, we’re here to capture your story.
3. Give yourself grace
Mama, if your baby doesn’t sleep, it’s not a reflection of you. Every baby is different, and your session is designed to flex around their needs. We’re here to make it stress-free, not stressful.
Why I Love Photographing Growing Families
Austyn’s session reminded me of why I continue choosing to be a newborn photographer. As a mom of four myself, I get the exhaustion. The scheduling. The “Did I even brush my hair today?” blur of those early days. But I also know how important it is to freeze time in the middle of the chaos.
It’s not about perfect poses, it’s about love, connection, and storytelling. And for blended families, that story is even richer. Including every sibling, embracing the real moments (even the tantrums), and documenting how your family is growing together? That’s the kind of legacy we’re building.
And one more thing? Your kids will thank you one day. For being in the photos. For making the effort. For showing them just how loved they were, right from the beginning.
Whether your baby sleeps the whole session or keeps their eyes wide open like Austyn, we’ll create something beautiful together. These images aren’t just for your walls; they’re for your heart. And I’d be honored to tell your story next.
Want to book your newborn session with Newborn Photographer, Markie Jones? Let’s make some magic: wraps, snack breaks, and wide-eyed wonder included.
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