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Preparing for your newborn session can become quite overwhelming, fairly quickly… But is doesn’t have to be that way! These will be the moments you and your loved ones look back on, remembering those sweet fingers and toes, and that new baby smell. My goal as your photographer, is to make this time in your life one of the best experiences possible.
How to prepare for your newborn session
Before your session:
Give your baby a bath (to help force them to stay awake for a time) the morning of your session. Afterward, dress your baby in something easy to take off like zip up or snap front pajamas, and skip any clothing items we need to take off over the head. This will minimize any waking and startling of your baby when we begin your session. Try to feed your baby either right before leaving your home if you live close, or plan on feeding your little one as soon as you get to the studio. Keeping your baby as close to their normal feeding schedule as possible typically works out the best. We will have plenty of time for breaks and snuggles if your baby becomes fussy and needs another chance to eat or be changed.
What to bring:
- Diapers and wipes
- Pacifier, even if you aren’t using one yet
- Extra formula, for formula-fed babies. If you’re breastfeeding, be prepared to nurse more often than usual
- A blanket for your baby, sometimes they love to snuggle under it between posing or during feedings
- Sentimental item if you choose to bring one with you
During your session
Newborn sessions can last anywhere between 2 and 3 hours. This leaves plenty of time for posed newborn portraits, portraits in props, as well as sibling, parent and group family portraits. Your baby may cry or fuss between posing, or need a feeding break, and that’s ok! They are in control, and will guide us through what they are comfortable with in regards to posing. I will work at their pace, with your baby’s safety and comfort as the top priority. My studio has been designed with my tiniest clients in mind, and is stocked with everything we will need for your newborn session – with backdrops, props, outfits, wraps, tiny hats, and insanely adorable headbands!
What to wear
The studio is kept very warm for your baby, so dressing in layers is always the best option in case you need to cool down during your session. Wearing light neutrals and soft colors is best. This helps keep your portraits light and bright, as well as minimize any color casts on your baby’s skin. Soft pinks and blues, grey, white, and cream colors always look great in portraits! Try to stay away from any shirts or outfits with large logos and busy patterns. For sibling, parents, and family portraits, you want to coordinate, but not match! By doing this, you create more visual interest in your images, as well as some added depth.
Moments with your newborn pass so quickly, and they’re changing on a daily basis. If you’re interested in a newborn session or just have questions, I would love to talk with you! Send me a message HERE and let’s chat!
