As a Dallas-Fort Worth Photographer, I’ve found myself booking so many newborn photography and maternity sessions lately! From Grapevine to McKinney to Arlington to Richardson, there seems to be a baby boom, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to be meeting so many expecting mommas, new little ones, and sweet families. I adore watching client families grow and helping them document memories through milestone photography, such as maternity sessions, newborn sessions, and beyond!

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As I book more maternity and newborn sessions in the DFW metroplex, I can’t help thinking about when I was expecting each of my sons. There’s so much excitement and trepidation that comes with planning for a newborn. One of the things that helped me feel more prepared was having my hospital bag packed early with items I knew would comfort me through labor and after the birth. 

Here are a few of my favorite hospital bag items to pack for your birth!

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A Camera

I guess this one’s a pretty obvious choice for a newborn photographer, but you don’t have to be a professional to want to capture those first breathtaking moments with baby. If you don’t already own a high-quality camera or you don’t feel confident taking your own pics (and, let’s face it, sometimes it’s hard to get that sweet, squishy newborn’s good side!), you could consider booking me for a fresh-48 photography session! These photographs take place within the first 48 hours of birth, and they really do reflect those amazing first moments with your baby. Just check your hospital’s visitor rules before booking!

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Comfy, Pretty PJs

It may sound frivolous to pack your favorite nightgown when you’re about to go through labor, but trust me! You don’t want to be wearing a clunky hospital gown the whole time you’re at the hospital. I know some moms who even prefer to wear their own clothes through labor, to help them feel a little more at ease when so many new and strange things are happening to their bodies. I personally love bringing a comfy set of nursing pajamas and a robe for after baby’s birth. Not only do they make me feel a little more put together, but they’re also casually beautiful for momma and baby photographs! A pair of slippers and some cozy socks will help keep you warm in the cold hospital. 

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Headphones and a Playlist

The right music makes everything better! Whether you need calming music for labor or uplifting tunes for all the postpartum hormones, putting together playlists before-hand can help you relax and keep your focus on what’s important: you and your baby! Don’t forget a phone charger!

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Self-Care Items

If you’re planning to breastfeed, ultra-soft nursing pads, a comfy nursing bra, and nipple cream are musts in a hospital bag. I also like bringing personal comfort items like body lotion, essential oils, even light make-up if you feel up for it and are wanting to feel extra pretty for fresh-48 photographs. 

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Swaddles and take-home outfit for baby

As a newborn photographer, I of course have to bring a beautiful swaddle or two for those fresh-48 photos! I love gauzy white and soft pastels to give my photos a light and airy feel. A warm, simple take-home outfit and socks are also great to have. You don’t need too many other wardrobe options for baby, especially since I find newborn clothes are still too big for most babies! The hospital will provide diapers and wipes.

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These are some of my favorite hospital bag items to pack for birth. Don’t forget the essentials like paperwork and insurance cards, the carseat, and toiletries (and items for dad too!). 

Ultimately, as a Dallas newborn and maternity photographer who meets so many new and expecting moms, I just want to tell momma’s that they’re amazing! Regardless of what you pack in your hospital bag, remember momma: you’ve got this!

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Ana Dufreche is a luxury, lifestyle photographer servicing the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex and its surrounding cities including Plano, Richardson, Frisco, McKinney, Grapevine, Allen and more. She specializes in motherhood, family, and newborn photography. Her sessions take place outdoors, in-home, and at her studio. The ADP studio is located in Downtown Dallas!