What to Expect in a Newborn Photoshoot?

You are expecting. Congratulations! Now is the time to start planning your newborn photoshoot! I advise couples to start thinking about scheduling their newborn photoshoot as early as in their second trimester. Booking early in your pregnancy will ensure the professional photographer you want to work with is available. The busiest and most talented photographers book months ahead! 

Selecting Your Newborn Photographer

Each photographer has their own style. It would be best to look for a photographer who fits your budget, is knowledgeable about newborn safety, provides the products you desire, and whose image portfolio matches what you envision. You want to convey to your photographer what is important to you. Now is also the time to plan out any themes or colors you like, interest in tiny detail shots, family poses, black and white images, or incorporating sentimental items.

Announcing Baby’s Arrival

After baby arrives, you should contact your photographer within 24 hours to schedule the session date within the first one to three weeks. Babies are their sleepiest and most flexible when they are firstborn. As they get older, not only do they start to grow and change, but they are not as tired as during these first couple weeks. Remember that while awake babies are super cute, they are harder to pose. 

Preparing for Your Newborn Session

The day of your session has arrived! It’s exciting, but it doesn’t need to be stressful. New parents often worry their baby will cry and not sleep during the session. While the new environment and stimuli might keep baby from sleeping deeply, your photographer will have many tricks to soothe baby and encourage sleep. It is a good idea to keep baby awake for about an hour before you leave for your session. Baths are an excellent way to do this. Then, baby will sleep well in the car, and your photographer can start taking pictures when you arrive. 

Here is a list of things to remember before leaving home:

1. Dress baby in an outfit that does not need to go over baby’s head. It will make getting undressed at the studio easier.
2. Bring two pacifiers. Pacifiers help soothe baby during posing and make the session go faster.
3. Don’t forget your supplies like diapers, wipes, a brush for baby’s hair, and SNACKS. Newborn sessions can take a few hours, so don’t forget to bring coffee, water, and food!

Enjoying Your Newborn Photography Experience

Once you arrive at the studio, it’s time for you to relax! Get comfy because your newborn session will likely take 2-3 hours. Downtime allows for baby to feed, settle, and sleep and to achieve cooperation with young siblings. Your photographer will have plenty of options laid out for you, including adorable props, wraps, outfits, bonnets, and headbands.

Don’t miss out on getting in the pictures with baby. Parents are often sleep-deprived and worry about not looking their best, but your photographer will use flattering lighting and retouch your images so you look rested. These beautiful photographs from your newborn session will always take you back to this exciting time, even after the memories fade.

Megan Brown is the lead photographer at Halcyon Days Photography, located in Gainesville, FL. Megan primarily photographs newborns and children, in addition to families.