Preparing for your Newborn Session
Capturing the Miracles of Those First Months: The Newborn Session
Tips on what to expect and how to prepare
Consumed with joy while unfathomably exhausted. Marveling at those tiny toes through a dim nursery nightlight.
The first few weeks with your little one are just so paradoxical! Each moment is exciting and challenging. New and miraculous. And unquestionably…fast!
A newborn photography session slows you down for some of those precious moments, capturing the beauty of your baby’s first phase of life. You will not regret booking a newborn session–trust me!
First things first. Schedule with me!
Of course, due dates are never firm, but having a rough idea of the month that the baby will arrive is helpful. I only take a few newborns per month so I’m flexible and accommodating for my families. Once the baby is born, we’ll communicate via email to work out the details – sometimes, families need a few weeks to get themselves together, others are ready the moment they bring the baby home! Whatever works for you, works for me – I had my first baby in 2021 so I completely understand how you feel.
What to Expect During your Newborn Shoot
While everyone is acclimating to life with one another, newborn sessions are generally best set in the comfort of your own home. This allows you to feed the baby with ease and feel relaxed in your element. When I arrive, I’ll take off my shoes, find the best light in your home, and guide you through every step of the shoot! It’s that simple! Personally, I love early mornings for newborn shoots.
Here are a few other tips to help you make the most of your session:
Plan who you would like to be a part of your photos.
Siblings, grandparents, and pets are all welcome! If it’s important to you to include others with the baby, just remember that we’ll need more time for more people.
Choose your wardrobes.
Generally, neutral tones and minimalistic patterns allow the baby to be the star of the show! Subtle colors are fine, but bold patterns and bright colors might be distracting. Consider what colors might compliment the nursery decor or other living spaces where we will shoot. Feel free to dress up or be casual, whatever makes you feel comfortable! Feel free to have a wardrobe change during your session for just babe or the whole fam!
Don’t stress about your home being impeccable.
You’ve got a full plate with a newborn, so don’t feel like your home needs to be perfect! If you’re like me, you’ll take any clutter and throw it in a closet or spare room 5 minutes before the session. A quick tidying up will go a long way. Keep your home warm the day of the shoot to keep the baby comfortable while changing clothes. I will move things around during the shoot if needed as well and I promise – I come with a no-judgement attitude!
Relax and enjoy some quality time together.
Look at your baby with awe and amazement–you deserve a little time to take it all in! My style leans to natural, real-life shots with genuine expressions, so I really love when parents are present and relaxed. I will, of course, get you some posed shots for birth announcements as well.
Years from now, your newborn photo gallery will allow you to reminisce on those sweet early days. Stress and sleepless nights? Sure. But one look at those precious little fingers and your heart will swell with nostalgia.
xo,
Natalie
