Preparing for your newborn portrait session
There are many things that you would never think to take a picture of that will mean so much to you later on down the road. Like how chubby their legs are, or the wrinkles on their back when they are curled up. The way their eyelashes look or the faces they make when they sleep. Their tiny fingernails and how they wrap those fingers around yours when you put your finger near their hand. Those are the things that you don't keep on memories alone.
It's my job to make sure you never forget!
How to Prepare Your Baby For Their Debut!
Feeding
Feed and burp baby right before you leave the house so they have a full tummy and start to get a bit sleepy right in time for the session.
Sleeping
Keep the baby awake for the few hours leading up to the session to ensure they are nice and sleepy for the photos.
Transportation
When you arrive, leave the baby in the car seat and bring them inside the studio. We'll wait to take the baby out of the car seat until the moment we're ready to start shooting.
Outfits
We don't normally photograph newborns in anything other than their birthday suit. Dress them in a simple onesie that will be easy to remove. You are welcome to bring 1 outfit if you happen to find something that fits them snug. Maybe a cutely designed onesie.
Pack Extras
Diaper leaks happen! Accidents are to be expected with newborns and their wardrobes. Bring changes of clothes that you know your baby will be comfortable in, extra blankets, etc.
Avoid Branding & Logos
Neutral colors and tones always photograph well, please avoid logos and patterns on shirts. Just in case there are any small accidents, please bring a change of clothes.
Bring Diapers
I like to allow plenty of time for feeding and cuddling, so plan to be here for 2 to 3 hours. Bring snacks for yourself too! I would suggest if you are breastfeeding, not to have any caffeine before the session, so we can get those beautiful sleeping baby photos for you.
Pack a Pacifier
Bring a pacifier, even if your baby hasn't actually used one yet. Sometimes we get lucky and are able to manage out a few extra cute shots.
Bottles for Baby
Even breastfeeding moms are strongly encouraged to pack bottles with pumped milk. Bringing a bottle may prevent us from losing an incredible pose that may literally never happen again.
A Note on Siblings
If you are going to bring siblings along, we can plan on when would be best to have them there, and then make arrangements to have someone take them out for a while so we can finish the session.
Props & Toys
We have plenty of props for you to choose from, and do like to involve you in choosing these. If you have a special item you would like to incorporate, we encourage you to bring it along.
Accessories
Feel free to bring hats and blankets to accessorize your baby's portraits. You will also want to bring plenty of wet wipes (if you have a warmer for them). If not, then receiving blankets will be better to use. Of course, don't forget extra diapers!
How to Prepare Parents for Their Newborn's Photo Session
Your Clothing
Wear cool and comfortable clothing because the studio will be nice and warm for the baby throughout the session.
Feeding
We plan for plenty of time for feeding and cuddles, but it's best to pack a bottle just in case. We don't want to miss the perfect shot! Even breastfeeding moms are encouraged to pump beforehand and pack a bottle to be on the safe side.
Skip Caffeine
We know new parents need it, but if you are a breastfeeding mom we ask that you skip caffeine so that when baby eats, they stay sleepy so we can get some of those beautiful sleeping baby photos.