Bringing a new life into your home is such a beautiful time. It's also an exhausting, crazy time. But it's so important to document. Don't let this time pass by without capturing it. Here are some things that will help you prepare for your newborn session.
WHEN TO SCHEDULE YOUR SESSION
Within the first 2 weeks of life is the best time to schedule your session. I talk more about that HERE. Make sure to get it scheduled early enough to have the photographer of your choice before their calendar is booked.
WHAT TO DECIDE
1 - What type of session you would like? That will help you choose the right photographer. Look at their portfolio to see what type of images they create. Some photograph newborns in their natural state. Others put them into frog and taco poses. I personally like to photograph them naturally. You also need to decide whether you want a photographer to come into your home or if you'd rather go to a studio for your session.
2 - Who will be in the session? A newborn session is focused on, obviously, the newborn. But it's also about capturing this time in your family's life. I will always encourage mom, dad, and siblings to be in those photos. If siblings are to be included, you might want to bring a relative or friend along to take them once they are finished with their photos with baby. That way you can focus on your newborn.
3 - What should everyone wear? This is crucial to having beautiful, timeless images. Read more about this HERE.
WHAT TO DO
Go ahead and have all outfits ironed/steamed and hung the night before. You will need as little crazy as possible on the day of your session.
Pack as many session items as you can the night before.
Check fingernails. Make sure they are clean and trimmed. Sounds obvious, but sometimes they're overlooked and it shows in the photos.
Check faces for food, boogs, crusties, etc.
MOISTURIZE. Face. Arms. Hands. Elbows. Legs. Feet. Everything.
Remove wallets, keys, phones, etc from pockets.
Remove hair ties and watches from wrists.
Make sure no one is hangry - mom, dad, kids or newborn.
Feed baby right before the session, if possible. If you have a long car ride to your session, ask your photographer if you can come a little early to the studio to feed baby right before.
WHAT TO BRING
Extra outfit. Be prepared for any messes that can inevitably happen. It's also good to have an extra outfit just for variety in your gallery.
Hair brush and hairspray
Makeup for touchups
Diapers and wipes
Snacks and water (Your photographer might have these as well.)
Milk/formula
If your baby/toddler has a hard time not using a pacifier please bring a neutral colored option so they can have it during the shoot if needed and it will blend in.
Most of all, prepare your mind to just breathe and be in the moment at your session. Don't stress over how your baby will act or how you will look. Beauty is found in our daily life chaos.
If you're ready to schedule a session for special little someone who will be joining your family soon, I'd be honored to document this time for you.
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