Zionsville Photographer: 10 Must-Have Items for a Baby Registry

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Mom-to-be in blush maxi dress looking down at bump by Zionsville Photographer — Studio photography

For a first-time mom creating a baby registry can be overwhelming. There are so many products out there that it’s hard to know where to start! To make things easier, I’ve compiled a list of 10 must-have items for your baby registry. These items will help you prepare for when your little one arrives and ensure you have everything you need on hand. Also, as a Zionsville photographer who specializes in Indianapolis newborn photography, I’ll include some fun photogenic options so you can document some adorable baby photos!

Feeding Essentials for Baby by Zionsville Photographer:

Nursing Pillow:

Breastfeeding can be difficult at times – having a nursing pillow can help provide support while ensuring that both mommy and baby remain comfortable during feedings! The boppy pillow is trendy and has many options for different covers to match your aesthetic. The other one I recommend is my breast friend, it has has adjustable straps. You can customize how much support it provides depending on what works best for you and your baby at any given time.

I breastfed my first baby for 20 months (so I know a thing or two about breastfeeding pillows! When he was a newborn, I preferred the my breast friend pillow for extra support. Once he got older, we switched to the boppy pillow for breastfeeding, which we still use now that he’s two when reading books or rocking him to sleep.

Bottles & Nipples:

It’s essential to have multiple bottles and nipples on hand, especially if you plan on bottle-feeding your baby. Be sure to select bottles that are easy to clean and made from BPA-free materials. I love como tomo bottles for breastfeeding babies, and it has a slow-flow nipple. I mostly breastfeed my baby, but when he needed to take a bottle, we used these and had no problems with him preferring the bottle over the breast.

Travel Essentials for Your Baby Registry:

Car Seat:

The car seat is a must-have, as it helps keep your baby safe while traveling. Get one with a five-point harness system and a base that fits most cars. We used this car seat – which is trendy but completely worth the high price tag. Also, you can register for an additional car seat base to easily go between two cars.

Diaper Bag & Changing Pad:

Every parent needs to have these two items handy when out and about with their little one. Look for diaper bags with plenty of pockets and compartments so you can easily store all of the essentials (diapers, wipes, ointment, etc.) without losing track of anything! This diaper bag is so stylish and comes in various gorgeous neutral colors. And don’t forget about getting a changing pad as well – this will make diaper changes much easier no matter where you are!

Baby Carrier:

A hands-free option is always helpful when caring for an infant – look into carriers that offer multiple carrying positions and support the lumbar area so parents can share the load throughout their day without feeling uncomfortable after long periods carrying a baby around! If you’re a mom of multiple kids, you know that a baby carrier is essential! For the most photogenic wrap, solly baby is the way to go, and this flax color is so beautiful.

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Nursery Must-Haves:

Stylish Changing Basket:

A stylish changing basket for your baby’s nursery will help make those adorable moments easier to capture. After all, photographer or not, you’ll likely want to take pictures of some of life’s most precious moments, so why not start with the perfect background? A stylish changing table adds a unique touch of class and personality while making life easier. So if you’re putting together a baby registry, look for that contemporary changing table – it could be the perfect backdrop for your little one’s milestones! I use this baby changing table when documenting newborns as a Zionsville photographer.

Newborn baby girl in moses changing basket by Zionsville Photographer

Baby Monitor:

A baby monitor will come in handy during those nighttime feedings or if you want to keep an eye on your little one while they sleep or play in their room during the day. Look for one with sound activation technology that only turns on when it detects noise in the nursery or bedroom. We used the wearable sock baby monitor from Owlet, which really gave this anxious mama peace of mind.

Baby Bathtub:

Bathing your little one can be tricky at first – make it easier by getting a bathtub designed explicitly for newborns or infants! This way, you won’t have to worry about them slipping around in the water or out of the tub while they bathe safely and comfortably under your supervision.

Clothing and Photogenic Swaddles:

Swaddling Blankets:

Swaddling blankets are a great way to help keep babies warm during those early months – look for ones made from breathable fabrics like cotton muslin which will be gentle against their delicate skin while still providing warmth when needed! For the perfect photo all wrapped up in a cute blanket, try these muslin swaddles from Target. Check out the muslin swaddles at Pottery Barn Kids for a high-end look.

Cute Baby Outfits:

Lastly, let’s discuss where to buy adorable baby outfits that are great for family portraits. When photographing newborns, look for timeless styles that aren’t trendy and let the innocence of your baby to shine through. Textures, earth tones, and soft pastel colors are beautiful. As a Zionsville family photographer, here are some of my favorite shops for newborn outfits:

Amazon – is perfect when you’re in a pinch
Rylee and Crew – always has great textures and earth-tone colors
Quincy Mae’s organic cotton and knit options are pricey but definitely heirloom pieces.
H&M Baby – you have to hunt a bit, but it’s very affordable

Newborn baby girl wrapped in ivory swaddle blanket and knit outfit — Studio photography

Mom and newborn baby photography looking at each other — Family portraits

With these ten essential items added to your registry, preparing yourself (and your home) before your little one arrives just became much easier! From car seats and nursing pillows to cute photogenic outfits – having these items ready ahead of time will ensure everything runs smoothly once they arrive – leaving more time later down the line to focus on what matters – enjoying every moment spent with your new baby! Finally, don’t forget to document those little fingers and toes. They grow up quickly!