Those first few weeks with a new baby are so precious. It’s incredible to think about how much your newborn will change in the coming weeks, months and years ahead. It’s one of the reasons newborn photography is so special to me.

Why? Because I know that 5, 10, or 20 years from now, the images from we create at your newborn session won’t just remind you how your little one looked when you first met. They will remind you how it felt to hold them in your arms. The way their little lips pouted and their fingers curled so delicately around your own.

Believe it or not, newborn sessions are incredibly unique – from scheduling your portraits to the overall feel and flow of the photography session they are unlike any other portrait session you will have with me.

Which is why I wanted to share with you everything you need to know about newborn photography.  Because unless you’ve had a session like this before, there is probably quite a bit you didn’t even know you need to know! My hope is that I can give you the information necessary for us to get the most out of your newborn photography experience.

So, without further ado, here are the six things you need to know before booking your newborn session!

Everything You Need to Know About Newborn Photography

When should I book my Newborn Portraits?

The best time to book your newborn portraits is when you book your Maternity session! When you book a maternity session with my studio I offer to waive the newborn portrait session fee. If you’re not interested in booking a maternity session then I suggest booking your newborn portraits as early as possible! Many parents choose to book their newborn photos as early as 12 weeks into pregnancy. In short, the sooner the better, to ensure availability I recommend booking before 36 weeks.

When do Newborn Photos take place?

Ideally, newborn photos take place between 3 and 7 days old. During this period of life your baby has adopted its own feeding schedule and is still sleeping pretty soundly throughout the day. They are also still very flexible so we can accomplish the classic newborn poses so many parents love.

 

How to Prep The Day Of Your Newborn Portraits:

Try to keep your routine as regular as possible but do bring your baby tired and hungry. We will work together to schedule your newborn session at the time of day these two things regularly occur based on their schedule.

Please dress your baby in comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. A sleeper is perfect! You will also want to put their diaper on a little more loosely than typical. Tight bands will leave marks on your babies skin in their portraits. As for your attire, dress in layers!  The studio will be quite warm so that baby is cozy and sleepy.

What to Expect During the Newborn Photography Experience:

Most newborn portraits take place in mid to late morning. Please bring your baby tired and hungry. Plan to feed them once you get here so they have time to settle into their environment. Plus their full belly will help lull them into a good sleep for their portraits. Plan to have just mom or dad present for the majority of the session, so that the room quiet and baby is able to sleep soundly. I love to add family and sibling portraits at the end of the session – when we schedule your session we can plan a time for the rest of the family to arrive.

Newborn portraits last as long 3 and 4 hours, so it is important that you aren’t in a rush to get out the door. This is because there will be multiple breaks to feed while your here. Newborn Portraits are hard work and babies typically get hungrier more often than usual. You should expect to feed your baby more often than what is normal!

During the newborn portrait session, I use mom (or dad!) as an assistant to help adjust and pacify your baby. You will be with me every step of the way!

What to Expect After Your Newborn Photography Session:

At your newborn session, we will set up a time for you to review your images and place your order.