Commemorating the first few days of your newborn’s life is important. They will only be newborns for around two weeks. No matter if you are a new parent or a new-again parent, these days are hectic and will be gone in a flash. The newborn photoshoot is the best way to remember the tiny precious details during the fuzzy days.
Many parents love having photos of their children. This is especially true for the majority of first-time parents. Parents in general love to have frozen copies of the milestones of their kids. This is so they can treasure special moments as the children grow older.
Newborn photography is especially daunting. Babies can change so much in a span of weeks. It should not distract the parents and family from the memories itself. It should tell a story so that the parents can look back in remembrance of it.
Here are a few essential tips to remember when preparing for a newborn photography session.
When Should You Do a Newborn Photography?
As you near your delivery date, you and your partner have a lot of things to prepare. This includes the date of your newborn photography session.
Most photographers advise parents to book it as soon as possible. Ideally, the best time for photographing newborns is within 5-10 days after birth.
Babies are easier to pose during photography sessions. They tend to sleep for long periods of time. It makes it easier for photographers to curl them into cute poses.
Once you have chosen your photographer, book a solid date for the photoshoot. Set a target date where you can finalize all outfits and props you included in your newborn photo session.
Set that target date when you are 32 weeks pregnant. It gives you enough time to finalise everything, but not too much time to change your mind. If you want specialised props, it gives you enough time for production and shipping.
What Type of Newborn Photos do You Want?
Having a vision of your newborn photos is crucial.
Do you have an idea of what they want to be included in the newborn photoshoot? You might want your newborn to have a special accessory or an heirloom in the photoshoot. You might even want the siblings or yourself and your partner to be in the photos.
Sometimes, it is helpful to look at newborn photography ideas on Pinterest or other websites. They can help you get an idea of what you want.
You should have an idea of the style you want. Preparing the things you want in advance is crucial to having the best newborn photos. It provides satisfaction to look back on. It also ensures the quality of the newborn photoshoot.
Communication is the Key! Talk to your Newborn Photographer
Tell your professional newborn photographer what you want to see in the photoshoot. Explaining your vision can help a long way. Tell them which shots are most important for you like close-ups, detail shots, family shots, or full-sized shots.
Let your photographer know the style you are looking for and the colours you want. Find a professional newborn photographer who can bring your vision to life. Find one that fits the style you want and can give their own creative inputs. If you have a photographer who understands your vision, it is easy to collaborate. You can include special props and unique details in the newborn photoshoot ahead of time.
Pack for the Worst!
It is important to be prepared for any scenarios during the newborn photoshoot. Have a packed bag that contains baby essentials. It can save time and effort during the photo shoot.
Listed below are some of the things you can have in your baby bag.
- Baby diapers in case there are poop accidents
- Baby clothes
- Extra pair of clothes for parents
- Props for the photoshoot, although most professional newborn photographers will provide all the props needed for your newborn photoshoot session.
- Feeding bottles during times when the baby is fussy otherwise if you are breastfeeding
- Pacifiers to pacify irritable newborns
Keeping Your Baby Calm During the Newborn Photoshoot
A hungry baby makes for a difficult photoshoot. Babies do very well in studios when they are full or sleepy. Make sure to feed your baby half an hour before the photoshoot. You can even let them have a warm bath an hour or two before the newborn photo session. This will comfort them and make them sleepy. Be aware that most of your time will be spent feeding and comforting your baby. Keeping your newborn happy and content ensures quality photos.
If your baby is bottle-fed, make sure to have a bottle of formula milk or breast milk on hand. It is possible to feed them mid-pose so they are relaxed and calm. A pacifier can help soothe them during photo sessions.
The baby may eat more during the newborn photoshoot. This is normal as babies equal waking up to feeding and being hungry. Arm yourself with plenty of patience as newborn photography takes extra time and patience.
A calm and content baby makes for beautiful photos.
Dress Comfortably
Clothe your newborn in a button-up or zip-up outfits. The clothes your baby wears during the photoshoot should not disturb them when they are sleeping. Ideally, dress your baby in clothes that do not go over the head.
You should also wear comfortable clothing. The studio will have the temperature regulated to ensure the comfort of the newborn. It will be warm so that the baby’s comfort and sleep will remain undisturbed.
Bring extra clothing for you and your family if you are included in the photoshoot. The newborn photography session should include enough time for you and your family to change clothing.
Relax and Enjoy!
Do not be too stressed during the newborn photography session. The first few months of a baby’s life will stress new parents out. You might be more exhausted than before. This includes preparing for a newborn photography session.
Remember to relax. Have fun with the opportunity to have fun and make memories with your newborn. Enjoy the opportunity to bond with the rest of your family and the new addition to your life.
Extra Considerations For Newborn Photoshoot
Safety in newborn photoshoot
Safety is a priority in newborn photography. All eyes and hands must be present during newborn positioning.
Ensure that your professional photographer has enough experience in newborn photography. Be present during the handling and positioning of your baby to ensure a safe photo shoot.
Either of the parents can be the photographer’s assistant. This helps the baby remain content. It also assures the parent of the baby’s personal safety.
Studio Temperature
Most of the times, babies are photographed naked. Ensure that the studio temperature is regulated to avoid newborn discomfort. If the adults are not sweating, it may not be warm enough for the baby.
Photoshoot Location
Newborn photography is usually done indoors. The studio prepares the place in accordance to your preferences. Indoor newborn photography provides a well-controlled environment. This is important in creating the vision parents have collaborated with the photographer.
General Ambiance
Make sure that there is enough light during the newborn photoshoot. Enough lighting results in photos that you can keep for a long time. It makes a difference in creating quality newborn photos.
Consider having white noise in the background during the newborn photoshoot. White noise or womb sounds can have a calming effect on the newborn. This is very helpful during the newborn photography sessions.
Maintaining a calm environment is essential in newborn photography. This also includes minimizing unnecessary noises.
Fussy Baby
Babies can poop or pee whenever they want. Make sure to bring extra diapers, clothing, or blankets in case of accidents.
Final thoughts
Caring for a newborn can be very stressful albeit rewarding. They can grow up very fast. It is practical to trust a professional newborn photographer to capture memories. They are things that you will keep forever.
