How to Prepare For a Newborn Photography Session: Tips For Expecting Parents | Dallas Newborn Photographer
HOW TO PREPARE FOR A NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION
UPDATED MARCH 2023
Whether you’re a new parent (congrats!) or this is your first time choosing to invest in newborn photography (also congrats!) I want to offer some reassurance: as an expecting parent, you’re juggling a lot in the lead-up to your baby’s grand entrance, and the research, communication, financial investment, and planning involved in a newborn photography may seem simply off the table — or at least, like a small priority. But I promise you, documenting this moment this moment is one of the most valuable ways to honor this time for your family, and I am here to take all the stress off of you in any way I can. In this guide, I am answering all the questions you have as an expectant parent considering newborn photography, and am sharing everything you should know so you’re able to capture these sweet moments to remember forever.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING A NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION
Preparing for a newborn photoshoot can be an exciting, yet overwhelming experience for expecting parents. I want to help make the process as seamless as possible, and offer you some idea of what to expect at your newborn session, so you can feel confident and stress-free on the big day.
what to expect at your newborn photoshoot
Expect to be in some photos (your partner, too!).
Now hear me out — I truly understand that in the first two weeks postpartum you’re likely not jumping up and down by the idea of being in the front of a camera. But trust me, future you is dying to look back at these first days with your little one. If getting all dressed up feels like an impossibility right now, don’t stress about it. All we need is a hand, or a lap, or someone to give your baby all the love we’re trying to capture in your newborn photos.
Expect to snuggle!
If I’m honest, snuggling with your newborn makes up a huge chunk of the time we spend during newborn sessions. While you’e snuggling, I may ask you to touch your baby’s fingers, or to give your baby a kiss on the forehead. During this time, I’ll be capturing close ups of you and your baby in a way that feels intimate, calm, and authentic.
Expect to exercise patience.
Trust me, I’m acutely aware that new parents are the bearers of all patience and that I’m preaching to the choir here. But in the spirit of being thorough, I figured I’d share. During your newborn session, it’s important to remember that your baby isn’t fully adjusted to the big, bright world outside the womb. It’s expected that your baby will get a bit squirmy or just need an extra snuggle from mom or dad. Tears, poopy diapers, feeding breaks, etc. — I’ve seen it all, it’s to be expected, and absolutely par for the course when photographing a newborn.
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER YOUR NEWBORN PHOTOSHOOT
Within two weeks of your newborn session, I’ll send you a link via email to your final newborn gallery (yay!). From your final online gallery, you’ll have the option to create lists of your favorite photos, order prints & albums for the nursery, or download your digital images to use for announcements, family updates, or just to set as your phone lock screen.
WHEN SHOULD NEWBORN SESSION BE DONE?
First and foremost, it’s important to schedule your newborn photoshoot within the first two weeks of your baby’s birth. During this time, your baby is still very sleepy and flexible, making it the perfect opportunity to capture those sweet, curled-up poses that newborns are known for. Additionally, scheduling your photoshoot before your baby is two weeks old will ensure that you get the most out of your session while your baby is still in that “newborn stage”.
Once you have a date and time scheduled, it’s important to prepare for your newborn photoshoot by thinking about what you’d like to wear. Dressing in simple, neutral-toned clothing will ensure that the focus stays on your baby, rather than on your clothing. I recommend sticking to solid colors, such as white, cream, or gray, as these colors will complement your baby’s skin tone and will not detract from the overall look of the photos. Additionally, it's a good idea to avoid busy patterns or logos on clothing, as they can be distracting in the photos.
SHOULD YOU DO A HOME OR STUDIO NEWBORN SESSION?
It’s also important to consider the location of your photoshoot. The decision to do a newborn photo session in a studio or not is a personal one and depends on your preferences and needs. Both studio and outdoor photoshoots have their own set of advantages and disadvantages.
At-Home Newborn Sessions
The easiest — and in my opinion most photogenic— location for a newborn session is right in your home. In an at-home newborn session, I’ll be able to capture your family and the new baby in your natural environment. My goal is to document the real moments in your home during those first few weeks with your newborn, whether it's snuggling with parents on the couch, being held by siblings, or even just sleeping in their crib.
In addition to the candid lifestyle photos, I'll also take macro shots of the tiny newborn details that are so special to newborns: their tiny toes and fingers, the little wrinkles on their face when they yawn, and the microscopic hairs (or lack-thereof) on your baby’s head. Don’t worry about how the house looks or whether you’ve cleaned up — all we need is a window and some natural light.
Studio newborn session
A studio photoshoot offers a controlled environment for your newborn photo session, which means that the lighting, temperature, and background can be adjusted to create the perfect look for your photos. Studio photoshoots also provide more privacy, which can be important for some families. Additionally, many photographers offer a variety of props, backdrops, and outfits that can be used to enhance the look of your photos and make them more personalized.
Ultimately, the choice between an at-home, studio or outdoor photoshoot will depend on your personal preferences and the type of photos you want to capture. If you prefer a more controlled environment and a variety of props and backdrops, then a studio photoshoot may be the best choice for you. If you prefer a more natural and outdoor setting, then an outdoor photoshoot may be a better fit. It's also a good idea to discuss your preferences with your photographer, they can help you weigh the pros and cons of each option and give you recommendations based on their experience and expertise.
outdoor Newborn Sessions
While some families prefer to do their photoshoot in the comfort of their own home, others prefer a more natural, outdoor setting. Outdoor newborn photography is a fairly new up- niche, and the results can be pretty incredible if you’re accepting of some degree of uncertainty. Variables such as weather, noise, and bugs can distract or deter from your newborn session. If you’re considering an outdoor photoshoot, I recommend choosing a location that has a lot of natural light and greenery, as these elements will add a beautiful, natural touch to your photos. However, it's also important to consider the weather and temperature, so make sure to choose a location that is shaded or has cover in case of sun or rain.
HOW DO YOU PREPARE YOUR BABY FOR A NEWBORN SESSION?
When it comes to preparing for the actual photoshoot, it’s important to make sure that your baby is well-fed and comfortable. I recommend feeding your baby right before the photoshoot, so that they’ll be in a relaxed, sleepy state during the session. It’s also a good idea to bring along any pacifiers or blankets that your baby is particularly fond of, as these items can help soothe your little one and make them feel more comfortable during the photoshoot.
When it comes to preparing for all things “potty” related, just know that I understand that your newborn is not potty trained. There is absolutely no need to stress if your baby poops themselves while we’re shooting, whether dressed or in the nude. Here’s the plan: we’ll clean them up, quickly change them into a new, fresh wrap or onesie, and simply continue on.
BEST POSES FOR YOUR NEWBORN SESSION
Another important aspect of preparing for your newborn photoshoot is thinking about the poses and shots that you’d like to capture. While I will guide you through the process and help you choose the best poses for your baby, it can be helpful to have a general idea of what you’d like to achieve with your photos. For example, do you want to capture a specific pose or milestone, such as your baby's first bath or their tiny little toes? Or, are you looking to capture more candid, lifestyle shots of your baby in their natural environment? Having a clear vision for your photos will help you communicate your needs to your photographer, and ensure that you get the most out of your session.
NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHY SAFETY TIPS
I hope it goes without saying that, above all else, my top priority as a newborn photographer is to make sure your newborn is comfortable and safe throughout the session. After years of experience photographing newborns, I have a thorough understanding of how to keep your newborn safe during the photoshoot, whether we’re in a studio, outdoors, or in your home.
Of course, keeping your baby safe from illness is a top priority. To every newborn session, I bring with me a bottle of hand sanitizer and apply if before entering the home and before handing your newborn baby.
Just as important as keeping your newborn safe from illness is ensuring careful handling of your newborn. While posing your baby, I will only put them in poses that are natural and comfortable for them, and will never position your baby in a way that is uncomfortable.
FINAL NOTE — ENJOY THE EXPERIENCE.
Lastly, it’s important to remember that the goal of your newborn photoshoot is to capture the beauty and love that you have for your baby. Try to relax and enjoy the experience, and trust that your photographer will guide you through the process and help you achieve the perfect shots. These photos will be treasured
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