Having a new baby is such an exciting time and it’s important to document this moment as it goes so quick! Yes, when people tell you it flies by, it really does!! So a newborn photo session is a perfect way to celebrate, and capture that memory in a wonderful collection of photographs for years to come.
Preparing for your newborn photo session is simple. For my sessions, I send my clients a ‘guide’ on how to prepare and what to bring. But I thought I’d share some of these tips with you here in this blog post…
1. Timing
Timing can be really important, depending on what newborn photography you are looking for. So getting booked in with a newborn photographer in advance of your due date is a good idea. And of course, baby might arrive at any time, but at least then you have this session in your diary. And most photographer are flexible with their session dates.
For tiny, curled baby shots, the best time for your newborn photo session is before they reach two weeks old. But again, this is ideal and not always possible. I usually suggest this but I have shot sessions when baby is weeks older and we still get beautiful photographs.
2. Studio and facilities
My lovely home based studio is fully equipped and has been designed with babies in mind. It offers a choice of natural lighting depending on how much daylight is available. But is also equipped with flash lights too for this darker, Wintery days! I’ve created the space to be comfortable for both babies and parents. It’s cosy and almost like a home from home, but built with purpose. And it also showcases some of the most beautiful pieces of art work, framed products and amazing keepsake albums that are unique and of amazing quality.
3. Temperature is key
For certain newborn shots we need to keep the studio at a certain temperature. Newborn babies always need to be that much warmer, and even more so if we are doing natural newborn photographs. As part of my studio design I chose to have underfloor heating so that the studio is cosy throughout, with no hot radiators for crawling little babies that choose to explore!
4. Baby led session
Every newborn photo session that I offer is always baby led. This might mean that we take that bit longer capturing your gorgeous photographs. But it also means that we all have a really happy experience too. And for me it’s really important that baby and you as parents, are relaxed and content. That way, we create even more beautiful photographs.
So my sessions last between 2 to 4 hours. This means that when baby needs a feed, change or if baby needs settling, then we’ve plenty of time.
5. What to wear
I always suggest simple, plain items of clothing for family shots. Neutral colours always work best, and makes sure that there are no distractions from faces – especially that of your little newborn. So plain white or light coloured dresses, shirts, t-shirts with denim jeans or pale chinos would be perfect. And comfort is key too! So opt for that!
6. Morning prep
I typically book in sessions mid-morning so that we have lots of time in our day to get those amazing memories. The morning you are due for your newborn photo session, if possible, hold off on any naps before coming to the studio. Try to time baby’s feed for at the studio. That way we can settle baby into the shoot straight after when baby is milk drunk sleepy!
7. Siblings
A 2 to 4 hour newborn photo session is a lot to ask of a toddler, or even a teenager! I find parents love the duration of the sessions as it gives them a chance to relax and enjoy watching their newborn baby. But, I always suggest bringing siblings along to the very beginning of the sessions. Then it would be great if they are collected by a grandparent or family friend after an hour or so. If siblings at your session might be a concern for you, then read my blog post ‘Preparing Siblings for a Newborn Session‘.
8. Things to bring
It’s always useful to bring extra baby clothing, muslin cloths, a pacifier if baby uses one. Extra nappies and of course, feeds. Also remember any special toys or items that are personal to you and baby that you would like included in your photographs.
Hopefully these tips will help to have a successful newborn photo shoot. My advice is to make sure you enjoy every minute as they grow so quick!
Smile, Jeni x
Jeni Lowe Photography
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