The first few weeks with a newborn can be a blur. Lack of sleep, recovering from labor and potentially a c-section, trying to get into a routine, and all of the adjustments that come with your precious baby can leave a newborn photo session the furthest thing from your mind. But I promise you it will be worth it! These moments are fleeting and you will want to have the photos to cherish and look back on as your kids grow and mature and eventually leave the nest.
What does a newborn session look like?
A newborn session takes place in your home and can last up to two hours. In preparation, I suggest feeding your baby right before the scheduled session and keeping him/her awake in the hours leading up to the session. This ensures the baby's belly is full and he/she is tired enough to sleep through majority of the session so I can capture those adorable sleeping baby photos we all love. It helps to keep the home warm to provide a comfortable environment for your baby. I suggest picking out a few of your favorite baby outfits before the session and changing baby's outfit during diaper changes. I will bring a variety of blankets, swaddles, and props that you may or may not choose to include in the photos. Lastly, I highly recommend moving things around and decluttering in the areas of the home that I will be shooting in prior to the photo session to limit distractions in the photos and get a nice, clean look. Rooms in the house with the most natural light will be ideal for the photos.
When should I book a newborn session?
The best time to capture newborn photos is when your baby is between 10 and 21 days old. I recommend booking the session before your baby arrives. This ensures I am available during the optimal time frame for newborn sessions as I may not be available with short notice. I understand that your pregnancy can be unpredictable and your baby will come whenever he/she is ready. I am happy to shift the date of the scheduled session after your baby's arrival.
What is the best time of day for a newborn session?
Mornings typically work well for a newborn session. The soft, natural light coming through the windows makes the photos look beautiful and your baby is more likely to comply after a good night's sleep. Based on your baby's routine, I suggest starting the newborn session between 8:00 and 10:00 in the morning.
Will the parents be in the photos?
Yes! My newborn sessions are lifestyle sessions which include plenty of photos of baby with mom and dad as well as several individual photos of your baby. I also encourage photos with siblings as well as sibling photos with newborns are my favorite! So take an hour or two to shower and get ready and feel like yourself again. You won't regret it!
If you have any questions or would like to book a newborn session, contact me today!
