Newborn FAQ

How to prepare for your newborn photo shoot

1.   The best age for newborn photos is 4 – 10 days old. After that, it’s a little trickier. We can definitely still do the photos at any age, but before 10 days is premium newborn phase.

2.   In order to get those angelic baby photos, baby needs to have a full tummy. Please plan to feed baby so that he/she is just finished or finishing up about the time of our appointment. This will put most babies into a contented state (and probably sleep) so we can have a happy baby during the session. Also, the more baby is awake before the shoot, the better he/she will sleep for us during the session.

3.   Before you start feeding your baby, dress him or her down to just a diaper and loosely swaddle. This way, we can unwrap baby without disturbing their sleep.

4.   Newborns get chilled very easily, so we need to make sure the room is warm enough. Honestly, the adults will likely be uncomfortable, but we want to keep the little one cozy and when doing shots without clothing on, we want baby to stay warm. Please turn off the a/c or turn it up to around 80. Another option is to use a space heater if you have one.

5.   I will bring everything we need for the photo session. I have backdrops, some props, and blankets, etc. However, if there is something special you want to have in your photos, don’t hesitate to bring it out and we will use it! For example wedding rings, special blanket or baby jewelry.

6.   Plan for the photo session to take between1-2 hours. It depends on how relaxed baby is and if other people are in the photos as well.

7.   Mom and dad are encouraged to be in the photos. If you don’t quite feel like getting your hair and makeup done, we can do strategic shots so you can still have a presence in the photos with your hands, etc. My suggestion is to wear a short sleeve black or white shirt.

8.   If we are doing the photo shoot in your home, we just need a place that gets a lot of window light. We can even shoot in an open doorway or outside, weather permitting.

9.   Lastly, if there are images on Pinterest or somewhere else that you have seen and want to try to re-create, feel free to text, facebook, or email me links or pictures. I want to do what you want, so let me know what you like.

OK, here’s the biggest thing of all:

          DON’T STRESS!! I don’t care if your house is a mess, or you can’t get dressed in anything nice or can’t find the energy to put on makeup, style your hair, or whatever. I have BEEN THERE, done that and want to put your mind at ease. It’s FINE. J All we need is a fed and changed baby, and the rest will work out. You will never regret having precious photos of your new baby. They change so, so quickly, and these newborn pictures will be a treasure to you throughout your life. I know mine are to me. Thank you for inviting me to take a part in making these memories with you!