What to Expect at Your Newborn Photoshoot
​
You've booked your newborn session, and you can't wait to get precious photos of the new bundle of joy. But this may be your first newborn photo session, and you may not know what to expect.
Newborn photos are different from other portraits and require a little more thought and preparation. Below are a few things to consider to better prepare you for your newborn session.
​
When to arrive
Please arrive as close as possible to your scheduled time. We understand that having a new baby can be a bit hectic so please text or call if you will not be on time. If you are running late, please try to relax so that the baby does not pick up on the anxious energy.
​
What to bring
The baby will generally be photographed with no clothes on or with a nappy, so you don't need to bring anything for bub unless you have a small keepsake that you'd like to include in the photos.
Do bring your full nappy bag, plenty of nappies, extra formula if you are bottle feeding and a pacifier if you have one.
Since most of my family images are against a light background, we recommend that the parents wear light colored clothing, very pale pastels, whites, creams or very light neutrals. Avoid strong patterns or prints. We do have some limited clothing options for mom at the studio.
​
Clean up baby
Gently clean off any flakes of skin or eye gunk with a washcloth. Use baby trimmers to trim the baby's fingernails and change them into a fresh diaper. Make sure baby looks fresh and clean before the photo session begins. Avoid dressing the baby in any tight clothing on their way to the studio since they might leave red marks, loose onesies work well.
​
Be prepared for feeding
When you arrive for your photo session, be ready to feed your baby on demand rather than to a schedule. Babies tend to eat more when they are at the studio. You'll want them to be full and content, so they can more easily fall asleep and be posed for the photos. Don't forget to burp baby well after feeding. A gassy, fussy baby is uncomfortable and harder to work with than a content one.
​
Anticipate a mess
Babies have no concern for when they pee, poop, or spit up-or who they do it on. Don't stress the mess. We expect it, and you should too. Everything that we use with your baby gets washed after the session. It might be a good idea to bring an extra set of clothing for yourselves.
​
Dress lightly
The studio will be warm, 25-30°C, so that the baby will be comfortable when naked. Dress in lightweight clothing or in layers so that you are comfortable during the session.
​
Be patient
Don't stress out when things aren't going as you thought they should. Your newborn will be able to sense your anxiety and frustration and may become stressed as well. There is no such thing as a good or bad baby, there is either something bothering them or they are content. If there is something bothering them, we just have to find out what it is.
When you add siblings or other family members to the mix, things definitely become more interesting! If your other children are acting up, gently direct them and encourage them to pay attention.
​
Trust your photographer
A professional photographer will know how to pose your newborn safely and how to work with every other member of the family. Be open to ideas and trust our expertise and ability to get you the images you want.
​
Shoots on an empty stomach
Newborn shoots last for 2-3 hours or more and it may be difficult focusing on posing prompts if you are hungry. Some snacks and water will be provided at the studio but you might like to bring along some of your favourites, especially if other children will be attending the session.