So you booked your session…now what? Keep reading to find answer to some of the common questions you may about your upcoming newborn session.
I am so excited to capture you and your loved ones. Custom photography is unique because it not only captures what you look like at a certain point in time, it captures who you are. I aim to capture honest photos of your family and children. The goal is not to get a stiff and posed shot with everyone looking at the camera, but to capture the true essence of your family. I take a lifestyle/documentary approach to newborn photography and use my understanding of my equipment and natural light to create images that will become works of art that you can hang in your home and pass down for generations. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your session with me.
Location/Time: Newborn sessions take place in your home, which provides an intimate and personal feel to your photos. I usually shoot my newborn sessions in the morning, but if the lighting in your home (in the nursery or master bedroom) is better at a different time of day, please let me know, as I prefer to use only natural light when shooting my in home sessions.
Most of the time shooting will take place in the nursery and master bedroom, so while these rooms don’t need to be super clean, it is best to tidy them up before your session (i.e. remove clutter from the nightstands, dressers, bookcase, etc.). That way there aren’t any items that will distract from the main focus of the photos–you and your family!
Length Of Session: Newborn sessions can last anywhere from an hour to two hours, depending on the needs of the baby. If baby is getting hungry, we can pause for a bottle or nursing session. If you would like, I can continue shooting during this time–some of the most tender moments I capture are during times of feeding! Don’t worry, if you don’t want those images shared publicly, just say the word, but at least you will have them in your gallery to look back on (I do this all the time with my children’s newborn sessions with so much nostalgia!).
What To Wear: Your outfits should be comfortable and reflect who you are. I do not recommend matching, but rather coordinating. Moms-make sure you are comfortable! Since newborn sessions take place in your home, they have a much more relaxed and casual feel. You can’t go wrong with jeans and nice tee or blouse. A dress works too, but I recommend a long dress, as I’ll have you sit on the bed and snuggle, so you don’t want to worry about flashing the camera if you have a short dress on! 🙂
See my PINTEREST board for some what to wear guides that can give you an idea of what I am talking about. I am happy to consult you directly on wardrobe if you are interested. Just let me know! As for your little one, a white onsie offers a classic look.
Props: I usually do not use props during my sessions, however if you have something in mind please let me know. Likewise, I do not do much, if any, posing of your new baby. I will do a few photos of the baby alone swaddled or snuggled in a blanket (on a chair, sofa, in the crib, etc.), but nothing too crazy.
Older Children/Siblings: Remember, my newborn sessions don’t only focus on the new baby, but the entire family and everyone’s connection with the newest addition to the family. Sometimes children are not usually fond of being told to pose or smile. It is best if we just give the children time to relax and try to capture their natural self. Don’t worry if your child is running about and active, most of the images you see of young children on my site were captured while the child or toddler was busy playing and exploring. To get the family shots, I usually direct the adults to simply “be” with the child, or hold the child and we go from there.
To get the most out of your session, make sure that your little one has rested and has had adequate snacks and water. We can take breaks for snacks and play, however I will probably still shoot during the breaks. Dry, non messy snacks are best so their little faces stay clean during the session. Prepare the child for the session by letting them know that a friend will be taking some photos of them, it’s best not to surprise them.
Please be ready to start on time: I rarely use flash during my sessions, so I rely on the availability of natural light, so it is important that we start on time.
I can’t wait to capture your family! Do not hesitate to ask me any questions you have. See you soon!
