NEwborn Sessions

Things to consider



First of all, congratulations! If you’re reading this you have embarked on a beautiful, amazing, sometimes-stressful, but always-1000%-worth-it journey called parenthood! As your photographer, it is my job to make documenting all of the beautiful moments with your little family as simple and fun as possible. So lets jump right in!


AGE OF THE BABY-


My professional recommendation is to schedule studio-posed newborn sessions within the 7 to 10-day window. This will allow enough time for the baby to develop a routine, but still be nice and sleepy for the session. If you have an older baby, between 3 weeks and 2 months, I recommend doing more of a lifestyle session. It will be more laid back and less important for the baby to be as sleepy.


STYLE/THEME-


This is supposed to be the fun part, so don't start stressing! Look around online, check your Pinterest, or ask some friends to decide which type of newborn session you are most interested in. You can always combine multiple styles.


  • Fresh 48 - taken during the first 48 hrs after birth; typically in the hospital (or in the home in the case of a home birth)
  • Lifestyle Newborn - includes natural poses, such as family gathering around to see the new baby
  • Studio-Posed Newborn - these are those perfectly-posed close-ups of just the baby dressed up, or dressed all-the-way down, and very sleepy.
  • Stylized Newborn Shoots - these tend to have a theme or vision (maybe a favorite animal or character?) with a background and setting to suit it.


PROPS/OUTFITS-


Props and outfits can be provided upon request. Here are some questions to ask yourself to ensure you cover all the bases:


What will my baby be wearing?

  • Nothing - simple and beautiful; traditional style
  • Outfits - make sure they are soft and comfortable, as comfortable babies take better photos
  • Headbands/Hats - small details can make a big difference in the final product
  • To swaddle, or not to swaddle?



What will my baby rest on?

  • Basket? Bowl?
  • Lace? Fur? Flowers?
  • Textured Blankets? Crocheted or knitted? Do you have a blanket made by a family member that would be meaningful to photograph?
  • Seamless background fabrics? Do you have a preferred color for this style?



Do I want the baby to be holding anything?

  • Some portraits can include a boutique-style pacifier or lovey stuffed animal for a more personal feel.
  • Do you have any family heirlooms?
  • Were you wanting some of those wedding-rings-on-the-toes poses?



WHO WILL BE INCLUDED-


Newborn sessions aren't just about the little bundle of joy; they are about the growth of a family!


  • Siblings - If younger children will be attending, I recommend arranging entertainment and, possibly, a second person to take the sibling to the park or another location once we complete their segment of the session.


  • Parents - Even sleep-deprived parents look great in newborn sessions. Consider including you or your spouse in at least one photo. It’s a beautiful memory to cherish.


  • Grandparents - The more the merrier! Just make sure additional people are discussed beforehand, and always do your best to keep your photographer in the loop.


  • Pets - Don't forget about Fido!



HOW TO SET YOURSELF UP FOR SUCCESS THE DAY OF:



  1. Make sure (or at least attempt) to keep the baby awake for one full hour prior to the scheduled session. This will ensure a sleepy and cooperative baby.
  2. Nursing moms should avoid any spicy or unusual foods for the 24 hrs. prior to the session.
  3. If the session is in your home, turn up the heat about an hour ahead of time or bring a space heater into the space where the session will be taking place. This helps to keep the baby nice and cozy during outfit changes or potential unclothed portions of the session.
  4. Bring a pacifier and be prepared to take feeding breaks as necessary.
  5. Bring a few back ups in case of any spit-up or diaper blowouts.



A Final Thought:


Do NOT, I repeat, DO NOT put a ridiculous amount of pressure on yourself. Your baby will not be perfect, and that is totally OK. I intentionally give ample time in these sessions for crying, laughing, diaper changes, and momentary lapses in memory (AKA MOM-BRAIN). We are gonna make it through this together!






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