Whether it is your first or fifth baby capturing the first moments of your newborn’s life is a beautiful way to preserve memories that you will cherish for a lifetime. Newborn sessions can be exciting but also an overwhelming experience. This newborn session guide will walk you through ever step of the process so you know what to expect and can be more comfortable going into the day.
Booking the session:
The timing of your session after your baby is born is very important. You will want to get your session booked while you are still pregnant with a tentative date around your due date. Ideally a newborn session should take place within the first two weeks of the baby’s birth. In the first two weeks baby is still very sleepy and flexible which will allow us to get those nice cozy, curled up shots. Before the session we will want to have a consultation to go over all the details as well as any special requests you may have.
Day of Session:
Feedings– Once baby is born and you are settled at home we will set a date and location. Whether it is an in-home session or studio session the process is very similar. Newborn sessions are lengthy sometime last 2 or more hours depending on how sleepy baby is. Before the session starts make sure baby is well fed, which will help your baby be calm and sleepy. There will absolutely be time for feeding top offs during the session if they are needed.
Diaper changes– Babies are unpredictable so do not worry about needing diaper changes. We will always make sure baby is dry and comfortable even if its right in the middle of the session.
Posing and temperature– My number one priority is your baby’s safety and comfort. I will never put your baby in an unsafe or uncomfortable position. Sometimes this takes time, but I will use soft movements and calming techniques to get your baby into positions that are comfortable for them but also produce beautiful photos. Babies need to be warm, remember they are used to 98.6 degrees. Wherever we shoot the space will need to be warm. Make sure you are dressed appropriately so you do not get too warm, but our main priority is to keep your little one nice and warm.
Siblings– If you have other siblings you will want in the photographs we will try and get those done towards the beginning of the session. I will add siblings in after I get some solo shots of the baby. Safety is again the number one priority so we will make sure there is not a lot of handling of the baby. It’s a good idea to have snacks and activities ready for siblings so that they do not get too bored while we are working.
Editing and Delivering– Once your session is completed, I will need some time to get your images edited. You should have your completed gallery within 2-3 weeks of your session. Once you have reviewed your gallery and depending on the package you have picked you will be free to download your images. If you want to order any prints, I will be here to help you do that as well.
I will be here for you every step of the way. I want your experience to be one that is relaxing, enjoyable and fun and hope this newborn session guide will help get you started. Newborn photographs are an investment that you will never regret. I want the experience to be one which you will not regret either. Creating lasting beautiful images for you to cherish forever is my goal.
