NEWBORN SESSION GUIDE
Congratulations on your new sweet baby!!!! What an exciting time in your life.
Thank you for allowing me the opportunity of photographing your new baby. I am very honored to be able to capture these incredible moments and l am very excited for you to keep the memories of these blessed days for the future!
This newborn photography guide will help you prepare for you session.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Newborn sessions are recommended be be done before 2 weeks of age (preferably between 4-7 days) while they are still in that sleepy and curly stage. After 2 weeks of age, they tend to be distracted more easily while sleeping and it’s not easy to get those true newborn poses and looks. Babies can also become colicky or their skin can start to flare.
Before the actual photo shoot, you should take some time to talk to me about your vision or the ideas for your newborn photography session. If you would like to incorparate any personal items this would be a great time to discuss it. This allows both you and I to prepare for your session in the best way.
Clean away the baby’s flaky skin and eye boogers on the face with the wash cloth. Trim those tiny fingernails and toenails.
If baby has any band-aids please remove them as soon as possible it will help the imprint marks to disappear. Another important advice is to loosen baby’s clothing and diapers at least half an hour before the session. This will give time for any marks and redness to disappear, and the baby’s skin will look flawless.
Do not change baby’s diet before or during session. If your baby is formula fed, make sure to bring plenty of bottles and formula! Your baby might need to eat more often during the session. If nursing, try to avoid eating anything spicy or anything that can cause gas and might upset baby’s tummy. A gassy baby will not pose well during the session due to their little tummy being upset. That might take away from some poses or possible picture count.
DURING YOUR THE SESSION
Please make sure your little one has full belly for the session. A full baby reassures that baby will be sleepy and calm. That is very important in order to achieve those sweet, curly newborn pictures. Again if your baby is formula fed, make sure to bring plenty of bottles and formula! Be sure to burp baby really well after the feeding. Gas can make a sleepy, happy baby into an uncomfortable one in seconds. And remember your baby might need eat more often during the session.
Bring pacifier or few - they can be very helpful during the session!
Be patient. If your baby is fussy or alert, do not stress out. Your newborn can sense your anxiety and I want to keep the environment as mellow as possible. I will try and get them comfortable again or I will ask for your help.
WARDROBE
Nothing is the best for a newborn. For some of the shots your baby will be photographed in his/her birthday suit however baby bits are not exposed in any photos. Wraps and some clothing is also a great way get different shots.
It love to play with accessories - little hats, dainty headbands, tiny stuffed toys etc. Personal items are always welcomed to the shoot.
FOR MOM, DAD AND EXTENDED FAMILY
If you are planning on having whole family in a picture pick one or two colors and then coordinate different tones of the chosen colors together. Parents or siblings should wear solid colors and avoid patterns so they do not catch the attention from the main subject – the baby. Gray, cream or other pastel colors will work great.
For moms- A subtle application of makeup can soften your skin and accent your facial features. Neutral looking fake lashes can really flatter your eyes. Be sure your nails are tidy and clean. I recommend nutral nail polish application. As any bright colors may take away from your baby.
* A note for MOM: I know you might not be feeling like yourself after giving birth. But I highly encourage you to have few portrait pictures with your new baby as they grow so fast and change so quickly.
**If you need professional make up application I would be happy to help with recommendations.
For dads- Be freshly shaved and get a haircut. Trim your beard, sideburns or mustache. Make sure your nails are clean and cut.
For siblings- Including older brothers/ sisters to your newborn session is a great way to document this special time in their lives. Due to the nature of the session I recommend bringing siblings either in the beginning or the end of the session. Please arrange for childcare for them at the time when they are not photographed (taking them home or out for something fun). At the time of shoot they can be barefoot, so no need to look for clean shoes.
Newborn session will leave you with treasurable moments to look back on forever. I’m really looking forward to photograph your sweet little angel! Please fill free to concat me with any questions or concerns.