Navigating Cluster Feeding During the Newborn Session (And How We Plan for It at Your Session)

newborn baby girl on a lavender lace backdrop with a floral headband

Melinda Gilmore Photography – Newborn Photography in Morgan City, LA

Welcoming your new baby into the world is a beautiful and life-changing experience. As you settle into life with your newborn, you might find yourself navigating some unexpected challenges, one of the most common being cluster feeding. We often experience cluster feedings during full newborn sessions, and we don’t want parents to get stressed over this.

If you’re a first-time parent, or even if this is your second or third baby, cluster feeding can feel overwhelming. It’s a normal part of your baby’s growth and development — and I always plan for it when working with newborns at Melinda Gilmore Photography.

Today, I want to share a little more about cluster feeding, how we handle it during your session, and what you can expect when booking a Full Newborn Session that includes your beautiful family.

newborn baby boy in green onesie laying in wooden bed

What Is Cluster Feeding?

Cluster feeding happens when a newborn feeds more frequently over a few hours, usually in the evening. Instead of their usual every 2–3 hour schedule, they might want to nurse or bottle-feed every 30–60 minutes for several hours.

Cluster feeding is often tied to growth spurts and helps your baby’s body develop, both physically and emotionally. It’s their way of getting comfort, nutrition, and reassurance in a brand-new world.

It’s exhausting, yes — but completely normal. And it doesn’t last forever.

newborn baby girl posed in wrap with bow headband with toes poking out of wrap.

How We Support Your Newborn During Your Session

If your baby is in the middle of cluster feeding around your session date, please don’t stress. At Melinda Gilmore Photography, I design every newborn session to be flexible and baby-led.

When you book a Full Newborn Session, I allow plenty of time to ensure you and your little one feel comfortable and unrushed.
Your baby’s needs come first, whether that means pausing for an extra feeding, snuggles, or diaper changes. I’m used to adjusting the session flow to meet your baby exactly where they are.

You can expect a calm, cozy environment where we move at your baby’s pace — no pressure, no rushing.

What’s Included in a Full Newborn Session?

The Full Newborn Session is a beautiful way to document your baby’s first days and your growing family’s connection and love. Here’s what you can look forward to:

Baby solo portraits with a variety of wraps, poses, and setups
Parent portraits with the new baby — tender, emotional moments you’ll treasure forever
Sibling portraits featuring proud brothers and sisters
Family portraits showcasing the love that welcomed this little one into the world

I also offer a thoughtfully curated collection of props, wraps, headbands, bonnets, and cozy textures that you can use during your session.
Whether you prefer simple, organic styling or a themed touch, we’ll tailor the session to fit your family’s style.

If you have sentimental items — like a special blanket, heirloom, or stuffed animal — feel free to bring them! I love incorporating meaningful details into your portraits.

newborn baby boy posed in mom's hands

Planning Around Feeding and Comfort

I always recommend feeding your baby right before arriving at the studio, but cluster feeding can sometimes throw routines off a bit, and that’s okay!
There’s always time during the session for you to feed, soothe, and snuggle your baby as needed.

I have a comfortable space available for parents to relax during breaks, whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. Your comfort (and your baby’s) is truly my top priority.

Ready to Book Your Newborn Session?

The newborn stage is fleeting and deserves to be captured with care, patience, and love.
My Full Newborn Sessions are typically scheduled within the first 7–21 days after birth, while your baby is still sleepy and curlable for those timeless newborn poses.

Families travel from all over — including New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and even out of state — to work with me here in Morgan City, and it’s an honor I don’t take lightly.

If you’re ready to reserve your session or have any questions (especially if you’re navigating cluster feeding!), I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

Let’s create beautiful memories together that you’ll treasure for a lifetime.

Contact Melinda Gilmore Photography Today