Congrats!
Whether you are a first time parent, or expecting your 5th bundle of joy, a LOT of parents have questions on what to expect during their newborn session!
If you’ve never booked a session with me, you may be wondering “what now?” As your photographer, you have trusted me to handle and photograph your baby, and the last thing I want is for you to stress or worry. I want each session to run smoothly, and stress free (for both mama AND baby).
Below are some frequently asked questions to help ensure you are completely prepared for your session!
When Should I Book My Session?
Newborn sessions are BEST shot between 6-14 days of life. This is when your baby will be at his/her sleepiest and calmest. It is best to book your session before your third trimester so that we have time to adjust your date as needed!
There are cases where I have shot an “older baby” with no issues, it is just important to understand that you may not get all the shots you are hoping for.
How Long Will My Session Last?
Newborn sessions TYPICALLY run around 3 hours long. If your baby is sleepy and content the whole time, we may finish earlier.
It is VERY important to have a happy baby during these sessions, so I always make sure to take the extra time and patience if needed to calm your baby down and make sure that they as content as can be. In these cases, sessions may run longer, in order to ensure a happy, sleepy baby. I know it can be discouraging to see your baby wide awake or fussing, but it is super important to stay calm and patient as babies can sense your stress. I make sure that I am very patient with your baby, and do not rush through my sessions.
How Should I Prepare?
There are a few things that you can do to before I arrive, to ensure a successful session.
Turn up your heat: A lot of poses involve your baby to be undressed, so having a warm environment for baby is crucial. I do have space heaters that I bring along incase baby still seems chilly
Feed your baby: As our main goal is to keep a happy, sleepy, baby, it is very important to make sure your baby is fed before your session. A smooth workflow is important to your session and we want to take as little breaks as possible throughout. There will be times where we need to pause, feed, and burp, but making sure your little one has a full belly going into the session will make everything run more smoothly
Undress down to a diaper: Before I get there, I always suggest that you have your little one in nothing but a diaper and wrapped up in a blanket while feeding. This is allow me to transition your baby from your arms, to the wrap, beanbag, etc with very little disturbance. If your baby falls asleep in your arms while feeding, it makes for a much smoother transition
Binky on Hand: The last thing I ask that you keep a pacifier close by. Even if you are not sure if they will take it or not, most babies will take one during their session to help them feel soothed. It is also easier to pose them while they are being soothed, and we are able to remove the pacifier before taking the shot
Do I Need to Bring Anything?
Since your newborn session occurs in the comfort of your own home, I bring the studio, and everything, to you! I provide you with all the wraps, props, and accessories needed to give your baby with a beautiful sesion. I am ALWAYS open to using parent props, and incorporating personal items into your session, however, nothing is NEEDED.
Can We Include Family Photos?
YES! Your newborn package includes sibling and family shots! I, personally, like to take these first, to help transition into a smooth session. Starting with the baby wrapped will help ensure that they are extra sleepy before we begin. I also like to get the family part of the session out of the way in the beginning so that you, your husband, and older child can then change, relax, and enjoy the rest of the session without worrying about anything. I encourage simple, neutral colors for these photos.
Thank you for helping me help you to ensure a happy, successful session! For any other questions, please feel free to reach out, or ask during our intro call! I hope to see you soon!