Top Four Newborn Session Tips
Photographing your newborn is just one of those moments you shouldn’t miss. As a mom of teens, I now feel the weight of moments past that I can only reflect upon in the beautiful images we have. And when there’s a gap, oh dear. I notice. The first few years are so important with all the changes a newborn has from new baby to toddler.
But I also understand that this can feel like a lot to handle during the first week of baby at home. So let’s talk about how you can make documenting your story a little easier.
Reese & Co Portraits, newborn studio portrait
1. Patience
Capturing this moment is important. But it requires patience. If this is your first darling, you’ll soon learn you only have so much control over most situations from now on. A brand new baby doesn’t always follow a schedule, soils diapers again and again, spits up on your favorite clothes, and gets gassy.
So photographing a new baby requires patience, calm, warmth and knowledge. Hire a photographer who has years of experience working with families and knows how to work with newborns. The longer, the better.
I have had many newborn sessions run into 2-3 hours because we needed time to soothe a colicky or fussy baby. My experience over the years has helped me understand that these sessions should never be rushed.
2. Plan ahead
During your pregnancy, find your dream photographer and start working with her (or him) to style your session. I love to photograph my clients maternity session as well. This helps us get to know one another and I learn how to best photograph her. We also get to talk more in depth about styling the newborn session, playing off the look of the maternity session.
About a month before your due date, select the clothing for your entire family. I do offer a client closest, but many of my clients also purchase dresses or knit sets for their newborn portraits.
Book a nail appointment near your due date and be sure to schedule a root touch up as well. This is particularly important for blondes as dark roots are simply not possible to retouch in photoshop.
The day before your session, pack a bag with your outfits, makeup, hair brush, diapers, a change of clothes for baby, and a bottle of either formula or pumped milk.
3. Slow & steady feedings
One of the most important aspects of photographing a new baby is that they are satiated. A full tummy promotes sleepy and happy baby. Be sure to arrive to your session ready to provide a full feed.
Even if you are breastfeeding, a bottle of pumped milk can be helpful as well.
How do you know your baby has a full feed? The arm test. If you lift your baby’s arm and drop it, a fully fed baby will let their arm go limp, falling back to his or her side. But if baby is still hungry, the arm will stay up. Another sign is when baby is making a fist. Look for signs your baby has relaxed before stopping the feed.
I always encourage my clients to take their time, understanding this time is well spent for creating beautiful images.
4. Hire someone you can trust
You will likely feel tired and a little anxious at your session due to lack of sleep. A highly skilled photographer at your side, one who has handled all the difficult situations, will provide you with the peace of mind you deserve.
As a mother to three beautiful children, I know firsthand how busy you are and all that you juggle. That’s why we’ve created a unique experience tailored towards busy mamas in Denver who are looking to photograph their family and create beautiful heirloom pieces you'll be so proud to hang on your walls. Documenting your family story is important. You are insuring your future for moments look back on your past. When the kids have grown, the heirlooms you create today will be important pieces in your home, growing in value as each day passes.
My newborn sessions are meant to be a blend of beautiful heirloom portraits with more intimate images reflecting your love and connection. These are perfect for an heirloom album, a gift your baby (and their babies!) will enjoy for a lifetime.