Preparing for a Newborn Session
How To Prepare for a newborn Session
Anyone with a new baby will tell you that getting out of the house in those first few weeks can feel like walking through quicksand. You’re still in a bit of a brain fog, not really on any predictable routine and things just seem to take longer than you expect. Don’t forget the diaper bag! Do you have an extra change of clothes? Did I remember the stroller? Although I believe that scheduling a newborn session is a must … I also know that it can be a bit overwhelming.
This is why I like to share as many “what to expect” and “how to prepare” pieces of advice as I can before, during and after your newborn session! Let’s dive into preparing for a newborn session!
When To Book Newborn Session
WHEN to prepare can feel like a big to do when you’re caring for an entire human! So, first tip- the best time to book a newborn session is while you’re still pregnant!
Decide on Location
The second step in preparing for a newborn session is to decide on a location (in-home or in-studio)! One of the many reasons I love shooting your newborn session in your home (I love a studio session too, but let’s be real, it can be a struggle in the first couple of weeks), is it is the least amount of pressure on you and your growing family!
What to Know Before Your Newborn Session
Newborn sessions last 1 hour up to 2 hours as needed. I usually schedule at 9:30/10am
Time will be given for any necessary feedings or changing
Makeup will arrive 1 hour prior to your session, while wardrobe will be discussed at your consultation appt and provided on the day of
If you can, you should turn up the heat slightly about 1-2 hours prior to my arrival - it may be uncomfortable for us adults but creates a cozy environment for your little ones (of course, during winter, this is fantastic!).
Morning of your session, keep your baby alert and awake as much as possible so they’ll be nice and tired for the session
Dress baby in a loose diaper and loose zipper/button down sleeper- this is to avoid lines and marks on baby's skin in the images and avoid having to pull anything over baby's head while they are sleeping.
A relaxing bath is a great way to keep them awake but relaxed prior to our session.
Before the session, give baby a full feed so they're happy and sleepy. This step is KEY to a smooth session, don't rush that last feed before you leave or before I arrive!
What to Wear for a Newborn Session
When preparing for a newborn session, it can be challenging deciding on what everyone is going to wear. To make the process easier, a wardrobe consult is done in person about three weeks prior to our session. If needed, we can arrange a zoom call instead. I love helping you decide what to wear so you feel your best!
Although the focus of a newborn session is your newborn baby, I always like to include parents and family in the newborn session as well. Even if it is just for a handful of the photos.
I suggest wearing light tones- grey, beige and cream always look beautiful. Moms, I have a growing client wardrobe, stocked with items curated specifically to be comfortable, to be flattering on pregnant & post partum mamas, and that will photograph beautifully.
You are welcome to schedule an appointment to try on dresses prior to your session or just browse the wardrobe the day of the session.
For dad, a henley or a solid, light colored button down and chinos are always a good choice. Shoes are never required for indoors sessions to make sure you’re as natural looking as possible
Ensure that tops are not wrinkled as this will show in the imagery and cannot be edited out. Avoid logos, busy patterns and stripes as they can be visually distracting.
During Your Newborn Session
When you’re preparing for your newborn session at home, a quick tidy is all that’s needed. All areas should be free of clutter in the nursery, the master and a common space in the home. Shades/blinds/curtains should be opened all the way to let the most light in, and all over head lights, TVs and lamps should be turned off
If you have multiple children, have all bigger kids or toddlers ready to go just before the session- avoiding any funny colored snacks/chocolate or messy meals as to keep them unsoiled. I do have some items for my little friends to borrow as well as for newborn clothing and comfortable swaddles
Some key things to have on hand/nearby:
A binky/bottle if baby takes one. if you're breastfeeding, having expressed milk with you can give baby the extra top-up they may need to stay asleep. Or feel free to nurse!!!
Lots of diapers and wipes
Some water/snacks for yourself in case the session runs long.
After Your Newborn Session
After your session, we will sit down and create your timeless heirloom album. If you are a milestone client, we can choose 5-10 of your favorites for the first year baby book or framed art to begin your gallery wall. How amazing will it be 50 years from now to know that you started documenting your amazing family legacy from your first child’s birth?!
Speaking of birth, I can also help you create custom birth announcements using your maternity or newborn pictures!
I hope you feel more prepared for your Newborn Session! I can’t wait to meet your bundle of joy! Contact me for more info here.