Preparing for Baby: Essentials to Pack for the Hospital

Maryland Newborn Photography
Hospital Bag Essentials for Newborn and Mom in DMV area

  1. Important Documents:
    • Identification: Bring your driver’s license, passport, or any other form of identification.
    • Insurance Information: Ensure you have your insurance cards and any necessary paperwork.
    • Birth Plan: If you have a birth plan, bring several copies to share with your medical team.
  2. Comfortable Clothing:
    • Loose-fitting Nightgown or Pajamas: Choose something that opens in the front if you plan to breastfeed.
    • Comfortable Robe: Perfect for walking around the hospital and receiving visitors.
    • Non-slip Socks or Slippers: Hospitals can be chilly and the floors can be slippery.
    • Nursing Bras and Pads: Essential if you plan to breastfeed.
    • Maternity Underwear: Disposable ones are particularly handy as they’re easy to change.
  3. Toiletries:
    • Toothbrush and Toothpaste: Freshen up easily.
    • Hairbrush and Hair Ties: Keep your hair tidy and out of the way.
    • Lip Balm: Hospital air can be very dry, and lip balm will be a lifesaver.
    • Basic Skincare Products: Moisturizer, facial cleanser, etc.
    • Shower Essentials: Bring travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.
    • Deodorant: Stay fresh and comfortable.
  4. Comfort Items:
    • Your Own Pillow: Bring a pillow with a distinctive pillowcase so it doesn’t get mixed up with hospital linens.
    • A Favorite Blanket or Throw: Adds a touch of home comfort.
    • A Water Bottle: Stay hydrated with your own reusable bottle.
    • Snacks for Labor and Postpartum: Think granola bars, nuts, and other easy-to-eat, energy-boosting snacks.
  1. Technology and Entertainment:
    • Phone and Charger: To keep in touch with family and friends, and capture those first photos.
    • Camera: For high-quality pictures (though we’re always here to help with professional newborn photography!).
    • Headphones: Listen to calming music or audiobooks to help pass the time.
    • Tablet or Book: For entertainment during downtime.
  2. Postpartum Essentials:
    • Heavy-duty Maternity Pads: Hospitals usually provide some, but you might prefer your own brand.
    • Perineal Spray or Witch Hazel Pads: Helps soothe any discomfort.
    • Comfortable Going-home Outfit: Something loose and easy to wear.

  1. Clothing:
    • Newborn-sized Outfits: Pack a few options in different sizes, as you might not know exactly how big your baby will be.
    • Soft Hat and Socks: Newborns can lose heat quickly, so these are essential.
    • Swaddle Blankets: For easy swaddling and comfort.
  2. Diapering:
    • Newborn Diapers: While hospitals provide these, having your own extras can be helpful.
    • Baby Wipes: Gentle, unscented wipes are best.
    • Diaper Cream: To protect baby’s sensitive skin.
  3. Feeding:
    • Bottles and Formula: If you’re planning to bottle-feed, bring your preferred bottles and formula.
    • Nursing Pillow: If you plan to breastfeed, this can provide much-needed support.
  4. Car Seat:
    • Properly Installed Car Seat: Ensure you have this ready for your baby’s first ride home. Many hospitals will check to make sure it’s installed correctly.
  5. Comfort Items:
    • Soft Blanket for the Ride Home: For extra warmth and comfort.
    • Small, Soft Toy or Lovey: Something comforting for the baby.
  • Pack Early: Aim to have your bag packed by 35 weeks, just in case your baby decides to arrive early.
  • Consider Your Partner: Don’t forget to pack a small bag for your partner or support person, including snacks, a change of clothes, toiletries, and any medications they might need.
  • Check with Your Hospital: Some hospitals provide many of the essentials for both mom and baby, so check with your hospital to avoid overpacking.


Award Winning Newborn Photographer | Washington DC

Washington DC newborn Photographer, Washington DC newborn session

Welcome to the blog of Award Winning Newborn Photographer Natalia Brembor serving Maryland, Virginia and Washington DC area. On today’s post I will be sharing with you the stunning images of baby Isabella I took in January 2024 in my beautiful studio in Rockville Maryland. It was such a pleasure and honor to have this amazing family and to capture this flying newborn stage of their daughter.

Parents choose pink, purple and cream for the session so I prepare few setups based on those preferences. Baby was very calm and sleepy so I could capture many beautiful images and fill the gallery with additional digital backdrops. I started by placing the baby in the bucket on the cream floor. I incorporate hat, teddy, cream heart and floral headband. Images came out absolutely stunning.

After, I decided to move to the second setup. This time I placed the baby Isabella on the beanbag and a purple flokati rug. I also decided to change the wrap color to matches better the entire background. Check below the final result and hopefully you will fall in love with this as much as I do!

Newborn baby photograph in purple. Rockville Maryland

As an Award Winning Newborn photographer I understand the importance of capturing simple and timeless images on the newborn baby. During every newborn photoshoot in my studio located in Rockville Maryland I aways make sure that I fill the final gallery with those photographs. For baby Isabella I prepared cream backdrops and one of my new dresses in pink color and stars. I also added some pictures with matching cream wrap. Baby girl slept through the session so I had the opportunity to change her outfits and create so many different and beautiful newborn images.

To finish the newborn photo session I added some digital backdrops. I couldn’t forget about my clients favorite moon images and floral photographs to tie the entire gallery together. Check the results below.

Did you know that the best time to have a newborn photoshoot is within first 21 days of life? Do not wait until last minute to schedule your newborn photoshoot with Award Winning Photographer Natalia Brembor Photography. I do very limited number of sessions per months so schedule your session during the 2nd or 3rd trimester to make sure I have availability for your family. Do not hesitate to contact me by filling the form on my Contact Page. Follow for more my Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and Newborn Portfolio. I can’t wait to hear from you soon! Let’s create some beautiful Images for your family.