Prepare to feel all warm and cuddly inside – because today, we’re talking newborn photography!
One of the questions I often get asked is – what should I expect during a photography session? After years of photographing the cutest little humans, there are so many things I have learnt, so I thought the best thing to do would be to share the top ten things you can expect at a newborn photography session with me – so you can rest easy, feeling prepared and ready for your shoot!
1. SHOULD I LOCK IN A DATE?
As I’m sure you know – babies have their own schedule, and no one else’s! Don’t expect to have a firm date booked in for your session until after your baby has arrived. I pencil in a rough date window with you, and then once your baby has arrived, or you have a scheduled induction or c-section, we lock in a firm date.
2. WHEN SHOULD I BOOK FOR?
The best time for your newborn photography session is within 14 days of the birth. They are more likely to be sleepy, and are easier to pose! However, I can still capture great photos of them outside of this window.
3. HOW LONG IS A SHOOT?
My newborn photography sessions are typically around three hours long, but it’s also super dependent on how relaxed and settled bub is! My main aim is to make the shoot as stress-free as possible. Block out around three hours to be in the studio (I keep it warm and toasty, and have coffee and tea on hand – you won’t want to leave!)
4. WHEN SHOULD I FEED?
To keep baby settled and sleepy during the session, it’s best to keep their tummy full! Come prepared to feed your baby a lot during our newborn photography session. This might mean breaking your usual feeding schedule, but I promise, it’s worth it for the photos! I also suggest you try to hold off giving them a full feed prior to your newborn photography session, though a top-up feed is absolutely fine.
5. WHEN SHOULD MY BABY SLEEP?
Try to keep your baby awake for 1-2 hours beforehand. This means that when you arrive, bub is sleepy! Sessions tend to work best if your baby sleeps for at least some of the time (however don’t worry if they don’t play ball! Sometimes the best shots happen when baby is awake).
6. WHAT OUTFITS SHOULD I CHOOSE?
Never fear – I have a wide range of wraps and outfits on hand! If you have something special you’d like your newborn photographed in then by all means bring it along, but if you’re unsure, I can take care of it. One less thing to worry about! When it comes to the grown ups or siblings, wear simple, neutral coloured clothing, and stay away from busy patterns and screen printing.
7. WHAT IF BABY NEEDS SETTLING?
I come prepared! I have dummies on-hand for my newborn photography sessions. I use a new dummy for each newborn in my studio, and they are freshly sterilised prior to the session. If you have strong objections to dummies just let me know!
8. WHAT ABOUT HYGIENE?
My newborn photography sessions are hands-on, so I will be holding and handling your baby a lot during our shoot. I always sanitise my hands and gear prior to each shoot, and proper hygiene and safety is of utmost importance! Also, if bub spits up, pees, or poops on me, please don’t apologise. It happens all the time – I’m used to it!
9. AM I IN ANY OF THE PHOTOS?
Short answer – yes! I’ll get photos of you and your partner, both individually and together, with your little one. These photos are some of my faves at a newborn photography session. They show the unique love and connection you have as a family. If you don’t want to be in any of the photos, please let me know before your session.
10. IS IT SAFE?
For me, the most important thing is to treat your newborn baby with the highest level of care, and safety will always be my top priority. This might mean I don’t get the pose you have requested if it’s not safe to capture. It also might mean that the session takes a wee bit longer.
BONUS TIP
If you have any questions, concerns or requests, know that you can contact me at any point prior to your newborn photography session! I want you to walk away from your photoshoot feeling relaxed, happy and confident that I’ve captured images you’ll cherish for many years to come! If you have any specific poses, props or colours you’d like included, just let me know. I’m always here for a chat!
As always to check out my latest photos head to my Facebook page and to find out more about my newborn photography go here.
