Preparing for your Newborn Photo Session
Newborn sessions are done when baby is between 7 and 14 days old. Older babies tend to be more alert and thus more difficult to settle.
I do my newborn sessions in the morning, starting between 9 and 9:30 am, as most babies sleep deeper early morning. It is very important to be on time, as sessions end the length of the session later. So 2-hour sessions will wrap up between 11 and 12, and four-hour sessions at 1:30 pm. Failure to be on time will amount to shorter sessions and fewer photos.
A Little Bit About Your Session
The duration of the session depends on the Package you selected. Newborn sessions tend to be fairly long to allow time to settle baby in between photos if necessary. I can only capture baby if he/she is settled, which usually happens only when they are asleep, and sometimes it takes a lot of time to get them settled enough to proceed with the session.
I start the session with family photos, then photos of baby on props, and on a posing pillow. If there are any specific poses/props or colours you like, please let me know before your session so that I can plan accordingly. There is usually enough time for about 3 different individual setups during a session when combined with family photos.
Instructions Before Coming to Your Session
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Feeding: Please feed baby just before leaving for my studio – it will help to comfort and settle baby, and maybe even help him/her to fall asleep.
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Clothing: Dress your little bubs in loose-fitting clothes that are easy to undress – preferably button-down rompers to minimize disturbance when undressing.
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Pacifier: Please bring baby’s pacifier along (extra if you have them).
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Bottle (if applicable): If baby is bottle-fed, remember to bring his/her bottle along. Sometimes baby might need a little snack (or more) during the session.
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Client's Outfits: All outfits except those of baby are the responsibility of the client. Please arrive ready for your photos – already dressed with hair and makeup done. Neutral colours like white, cream, beige, pastels, or autumn colors like rust, olive green, or burnt orange are recommended. Avoid bright colours or bold patterns.
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Sentimental Objects: If you have any sentimental objects/toys or specific themes/colours you'd like incorporated in the photos, please let me know in advance.
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Siblings: If siblings are coming along, I strongly advise that one parent take them for a play in our local park after family photos while mum and baby stay behind for baby’s individual photos. This helps to minimize noise and distractions for baby.
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Safety: I only do photos of your little one with older siblings if I deem it safe for baby.
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Specific Requests: If there are any specific images or colour schemes you want included, please send them to me before your session to help me plan accordingly.
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Social Media and website: I usually post a short preview on my Facebook and Instagram Business pages – if you prefer not to have your photos shared on social media or my website, please let me know before the session begins.