There is nothing more wonderful and life-changing than having a baby. And there is nothing like those first days at home with your baby. Um yeah, there is the sleep deprivation part but who remembers that when it's all said and done ;). I remember the first days home with my babies so well and I treasure my newborn photos of each of them. My approach to newborn photography is mostly shaped by the images I love the most of my own babies and our family. I always do my newborn sessions in your home where you are most comfortable and relaxed. It is my goal at our session to give you portraits of your family and baby as well as lifestyle images that display real emotion.
There are a few things to keep in mind when preparing for your newborn session...
It's best to book your newborn session during your pregnancy before your baby is born or at your maternity session with me. I always try to shoot my newborn sessions within the first 10 days so it's best for me to have you on my schedule before hand so I can be sure to leave extra availability around your due date. This timeframe is really important because that's when babies are super sleepy and this is usually before baby acne shows up. After you have your baby and get home and settled, give me a call. We'll set up a specific time for me to come over and do your session within the 10 day timeframe.
If your baby is already past this timeframe we can still do your newborn session, it's just good to keep in mind that our session might be a little different. As babies get older, they being to stretch out a bit more and sleep a bit less so sometimes it is harder to get those squishy, sleepy images. One great thing about older newborns is ROLLS!
Newborn sessions take more time than a family or maternity session. I usually allot 2-4 hours for my newborns so that there is plenty of time for baby to be fed and changed during the session. When it comes to poop and spit up...it happens! It ALWAYS happens. Just another reason I allow for extra time in our session to clean up life's little messes :). It's best for you to feed baby right before I arrive so we are ready to go when I get there. Also bump the heat up in your house. A warm and full baby make for a happy baby.
When it comes to wardrobe, I love the look of light, soft neutrals on mom and dad. Pops of color look nice as well. Whatever you do, choose an outfit that makes you feel beautiful and comfortable. Remember that some clothing can look bulky and cumbersome on newborns. True newborn sized onsies, swaddling blankets and diaper covers are great options to have for baby and of course it's great to photograph baby with no clothes on. Theres nothing sweeter than new baby skin! If you have any textured blankets, knit throws or family quilts, it's great to grab those and have them out before hand. Besides a few blankets and a couple hand knit hats, I rely on things you have in your own home for props. Your own things always have more meaning when you look back on photos. So, if you have something in mind for a prop make sure you plan ahead for that. Etsy is a great place to look for handmade hats and diaper covers.
Be sure to relax and have fun at our session! Let me catch you giving your baby eskimo kisses, feeding her, rocking her, snuggling in your bed together as a family and holding him in daddy's strong arms. These are sure to be images you will treasure for years to come.
I hope this has given you a look into my approach to newborn photography. If you want to see some of my latest newborn sessions, you can see that here. Please feel free to contact me for more information and if you have any questions. I hope to work with you and your family soon!
