So the day of your new baby's photo session has arrived – you’ve spent days in bliss and chaos, sleepless nights and days recuperating from the magical and possibly terrifying moment that your baby came into the world. It may feel like a newborn photoshoot comes a little too quick and scheduling an outing just a few days after the birth may be overwhelming. Believe me, I understand. But if you are reading this right now, this is probably something that is very important to you. You know that this photo session is a way for you to remember this very special time, the beginning of this precious little life, and a way to hold onto every leg roll, dimple and smile that seem to change so quickly. I promise you it will be worth it, and I will do everything I can to make it a calm and enjoyable experience for you and your baby. And you will end up with amazing images of your unique and precious little one. Be sure to scroll past each adorable image to read the next tip.
Tip 1: Don’t worry!
Whether you’re in the Columbia Valley and you are using me as your photographer or you’re just looking for some guidance - I’ve compiled my best tips to help you feel prepared for your newborn photos and let you relax! My first tip? Don’t worry too much! This is what I do. I am ready and eager to guide you through it. When you get to my studio, I’m going to be doing most of the heavy lifting, letting you kick back and relax. Often mothers are nervous about finding the perfect outfits, wondering if their baby will cry the whole time, or if they'll get any of the beautiful poses they really love. Perhaps you don’t feel particularly eager to get in front of the camera yourself but would also love to be included. Whatever your worry may be, I am here to assure you it will be okay. Even the most hectic photoshoots end with gorgeous, serene photos of your newborn.
Tip 2: You don’t need to bring much with you!
Okay....let’s talk outfits! I have my own collection of props, headbands, and tiny knit outfits that we will pick from. If you wonder how on earth people have these adorable little onesies that barely look real, they probably don’t. Their photographer may have made it themselves or commissioned some artsy-Etsy-knitter to make them. I’ve done both! However, I always advise that if you have some item of sentimental value or something you just really love, please let me know and we will do what we can to include it. Otherwise, your baby can wear anything that’s comfortable and easy to change them out of. It’s best if they can come in something that doesn’t have to be pulled over their head, just to make outfit changes a little easier! As for your own clothes, wear something you are comfortable in, with minimal pattern and muted tones - or stick to just two colours that will complement each other for everyone to wear. Really, simplicity wins for everyone in this case.
Tip 3: Start baby off with a full tummy!
Something that becomes very important the day of the photos is the timing of the shoot. I always advise that the baby have a full feeding right before coming to the studio, as this ensures a nice sleepy baby for the photos. If your little one could also have some awake time for a while before the photos, this will help them keep in a deep slumber for our poses. When the baby needs to be changed, we will be able to do that. The time I allot for a session means plenty of wiggle room for feeding, changing, and soothing. Babies are a little high maintenance - hey, I can’t blame them! The closer we can stick to these timing rules will mean an easier time getting your baby into poses and outfits and a happier time for everyone.
Tip 4: Bring a pacifier!
What if your baby won’t stop crying? We’ve come full circle to the worry everyone has, especially if you have a fussy baby. You will notice if you book a newborn session with me that I come very close to begging you to bring a pacifier. It is common for people to insist their baby never takes a soother and they won’t need it. However, in my experience, even if they only take the pacifier for a second, it can mean the difference between getting the shot and not getting the shot. Please bring one and let me give it a try if needed! Another factor to keeping your baby happy - and this section comes as more of a warning - is having a warm room. I keep the studio very warm so I advise you to dress accordingly and leave a layer to take off if needed. While it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, baby wins this temperature battle! When it comes down to it, your baby’s comfort is my priority so you can relax and enjoy the session.
These 4 tips don't exactly cover everything, so if there's anything else you are wondering about please reach out to me and let me walk you through the process! Once you book the session I always provide more details on what you can do to prepare. This photo session is so important and I want you and your newborn to trust me even before setting foot in my studio. I would be honoured to help you remember all the little things and make it a comfortable process along the way.
I plan to do more informational blogs as well to help you feel more at ease, whether it's for a newborn, family or maternity session or anything else. If there’s something else you’d like to see me write about I would love to hear your suggestions.
I look forward to hearing from you!