5 Tips for Your Newborn Session
Working with families begins even before your little one arrives. Although babies are unpredictable and not always born on the exact due date as planned, we will still have a general idea so that we can start preparing on our end. We also understand that you may want a few days to rest, so take your time. It is recommended to have the shoot within the first couple of weeks of your baby’s birth, so we can capture those “newborn” faces while they are still so fragile, innocent and beautiful. Babies also sleep more often during those first couple of weeks.
If you are too uncomfortable to attend the shoot, due to having a C-section or difficult recovery, you may want to send the baby to our studio with Daddy. It will give him a good opportunity to bond with baby as well. However, if you would like family photos rather than just individual images of the infant, this is something we can discuss.
Once your session is scheduled, we can talk about your vision for the images. You can incorporate your own ideas. Some parents like to bring props, such as little hats, scarves, mittens or special booties and blankets. We also keep props on hand for this occasion. All items are sanitized in between newborn sessions, so we do keep your baby’s safety and comfort in mind.
Here are a few general tips to consider for your newborn photo session:
Wait to feed your baby until upon arrival, so that he/she might be more likely to fall asleep after nursing. We have a comfortable place for you to do this.
Bring a pacifier for your little one to suck on, even if you think baby won’t take it.
Many of the images we take are “au natural” but we do not want your baby to be cold, so you can bring a favourite soft blanket. The studio lighting also feels warm and will not harm your little one in any way.
If you have any favourite outfits, such as an NFL team jersey, christening gown, or ballerina tutu, etc., please bring these special items with you.
For parents, just dress comfortably. You do not have to dress up. You can wear a blouse or a nice top if you wish to have any pictures with baby. We can shoot the images from the waist up.
Be prepared to sign a model release, as I do often use newborn images within my portfolio and will not do so without parental consent. Most parents are more than okay with this, but if for any reason you do not want me to showcase your infant in my collection, please address any concerns you might have in advance.