Posed Newborn Photography should be done within the first 12 days of birth, when the baby is very sleepy and flexible. The focus in this type of session is on shots of the baby looking perfect, usually in blankets, wraps, hats, & headbands. These poses are more easily accomplished while the baby is asleep. The session can last 3-4 hours with feeding, potty breaks, and posing. Editing this type of session also takes quite a bit of time as each image needs to be edited and retouched individually to get a polished end result. This is why we also charge a bit more for Newborn Sessions. Keep in mind that we can still schedule a session after the 12 days but that session will focus more on the family with little posing. This is because babies are the most moldable and sleepy during the first 12 days.
Where do Newborn Sessions take place?
I like to meet new parents at their home for photos. This makes it easier on new parents, and guarantees that important changing or feeding items won’t be left at home. New moms are usually very tired after giving birth and I have found that in-home sessions cut down on stress and fatigue. I bring all of my gear and posing equipment, and set up near a very bright and big window, so that I have plenty of natural light. But we will also shoot some photos in the nursery and in your Bedroom.
What should baby wear?
Most in-home newborn photography is done naked to capture the tininess of the baby. Choose outfits that are easy to take on and off like baby onesie or a swaddle blanket is usually sufficient. If you’d rather have your baby clothed or costumed, try to keep it to 3 or less outfits. Try to choose light-colored clothing. White and pastels bring out your baby’s sweet complexion. Accessories like a beanie or stocking cap as it can soften your baby’s face. Make sure to pick cherished items like a favorite toy so we can get a shot of baby hugging his/her favorite stuffed animal. I bring a white blanket for posing but most parents choose to have poses done on baby’s blanket or a special quilted blanket from grandma.
Can we include older siblings?
If the baby has older siblings, I try to make the sibling shots my very first priority and then let them go play while I finish the session. Toddlers simply don’t have the attention span to sit quietly and wait for me to call on them for their picture so make sure they are clothed and ready to go when I arrive.
How does posing work?
One of the most important things is to make sure the room is very warm. If I am not sweating, the baby isn’t warm enough. I also never force a baby into a pose he or she is uncomfortable in and let the baby indicate to me which poses he or she is most happy in. This is because newborn necks are very delicate and I want to be careful with positioning so I don’t do anything that could harm the baby. If the baby doesn’t want to go to sleep for posing after you’ve tried everything, I will take family / lifestyle shots like the ones below – these all make for very cute photos. I try to be open and flexible – the session doesn’t always go as planned and that might just be the best thing that happens to us.
How should parents prepare for the session?
I will arrive in the morning to take advantage of the brightest light of the day. Feed the baby 30 minutes before I arrive to help baby get sleepy. Feed the baby in only a diaper and a loose swaddle blanket so we don’t have to bother the baby with undressing them. Make sure to avoid socks and mittens because the elastic can leave marks on baby’s soft skin. Also do not put diapers on too tight for the same reason.
LOVE WHAT YOU SEE? Let’s connect!
I hope you enjoyed my tips on how to prepare for your newborn session. I am so thankful for the wonderful people that hire me and support my passion!
If you’re thinking about taking Laguna Beach engagement photos (or pssst, if you’re looking for a romantic place to pop the question), I’d love to be your photographer. Fill out the contact form on my website, and let’s make memories!
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