Top Tips for your Newborn Session

Over the past year, I have photographed several families in a variety of sessions, but I've discovered that I really LOVE newborn sessions.  I have truly fallen in love with photographing newborns and learning about this new little life during our session.  Newborn photography is becoming a strong passion of mine and I take great pride in providing the best care during each unique session.  The newborn sessions that I often photograph are for new, first-time parents.  It can be pretty overwhelming to be home only a few days and then have to prepare your home and yourself for a photographer to come in to do your session.  So I like to make this session as easy as I possibly can which is why I have created some top tips to prepare for your session.

•  Newborn photography is unique as it is not possible to schedule the session too far in advance.  It's important to line up your photographer and pencil in your due date as soon as possible so that your photographer can plan for your session accordingly.  I only book one newborn session per day so that I can completely focus on your family so the more notice I have, the better to plan.
  

• Call or email your photographer as soon as you can after birth in order to finalize your date and time for your session.  Newborn sessions are typically scheduled within 2 weeks of birth, preferably between 3-10 days.
  

• I am an on-site photographer, meaning that I will come to your home for your session.  I find this makes it so much easier for the family so that you do not have to leave the comfort of your home so soon after giving birth.  If you are interested in having photos done in a particular area of your home (living room, nursery, etc), its best if the room is ready and clutter is cleared.  But I don't care if there are dishes in the sink or laundry piles on the floor - you just had a baby, there's no need to stress!
  

• I will be setting up in an area that has the best natural light - lots of windows, large glass doors.  The more light, the better!

• As I will be doing photos of the baby either in a light wrap or naked, it's best if the temperature in the house is raised.  I recommend setting the thermostat to around 80 degrees about an hour before the scheduled start time.  We will all be sweating, but the baby will be nice and toasty!
  

• The baby should be well fed prior to my arrival.  This ensures that the baby is sleepy and happy while we move her around for each set-up.
  

• You'll want to loosen baby's diaper about 30 minutes prior to the schedule start time.  This will help get rid of those little diaper lines.  

• You will need to decide if you and your other children will also be photographed with the baby or if you want to just focus on the baby during your session.  If you choose to be in the photographs, it's best to wear solid colors that aren't too distracting.  

• I will be bringing a variety of props with me - blankets, baskets, wraps, and headbands - but if there is anything special that you would like to use, please have it available.  I find using your own special items adds a unique touch to your photographs.  

Whenever a family decides to book a newborn session with me, I also send a list of tips and suggestions like these to help them prepare. 

If you or anyone you know are interested in booking a newborn session, please email me to schedule your session!