After your baby arrives, I like to have my mama’s shoot me a quick text after their little one is here, that way I can start to clear my schedule and find a good day for our session. Most all my newborn sessions take place when baby is anywhere from 5-10 days old. This is important because I like to shoot when baby is still in the womb-like stage and very sleepy. (you know… when their days and nights are flip-flopped ;-) ). Another reason being; baby acne. It happens to most every baby so shooting before it makes its appearance is the goal. If your baby already has it, no worries! My rule of thumb for re-touching is; if it’s temporary (i.e. pimples, bruises, scratches) they get taken out. If it’s a birth mark, I leave them. You’ll want to remember your little one and every little detail. Trust me.
How to Prepare Before the Newborn Shoot
When you book a newborn session with me, I will be holding your hand through all the steps! Ideally you’re booking your session a couple months out so there is plenty of time for prep. I always recommend scheduling your session within a 2 week window of your due date. I understand baby’s have their own agenda for when they decide to make their entrance, so if you end up with an early or late delivery, I’m always flexible with figuring out a new session date! Even if baby needs to spend some time at the hospital, that is perfectly okay! We will still have the most amazing newborn session.
In the preparation weeks between booking and the actual shoot, I’ll help with styling outfits for the family, and plan for the best lighting in your home. Generally, I shoot in the nursery and/or master bedroom. I suggest keeping an eye on those rooms in particular to see when they get the best window light. The rule is to open up the blinds/curtains and turn off any artificial light (as I will be turning these off during your session to avoid the yellow cast). If you’re ever unsure about the specific room, you can always send me an email or text with a sample picture and I can weigh in! Figuring out the best lighting, which often will be morning light, will determine the ideal time for your session!
What if My House Isn’t Pinterest Perfect?
First of all, it doesn’t have to be! I understand that not everyone is an interior decorator— I am in that boat! But one thing about lifestyle photography is that it’s reflective of your family and your own personalities. What your house looks like is a reflection of your style and interests that should be captured! Or maybe it’s not your forever home, but that’s ok too. These are snapshots into your life right NOW and it will forever put a timestamp on the month and year you delivered that baby. I’d like to think these photos could be put in a time capsule that one day you’ll see again and remember that exact year, that exact house you raised your kids in, and that outdated yet perfectly comfortable rocking chair you rocked your tiny babies to sleep. I hope it will bring you joy and that cozy nostalgic feeling when you look at these photos in years to come. Your home doesn’t have to be perfect, it just should be you! And if you’re worried about messes, don’t sweat it! I know the newborn phase is wild and everyone is sleep deprived. Tidying up a small space for the photos it perfectly fine and we can rearrange things as we go.
Second of all, if you feel strongly about not wanting photos in your home because you’re feeling self-conscious or simply just don’t want me in your space, I have a new alternative! This year I am debuting my very first lifestyle, bedroom studio open to newborn clients at Sunrise Studio in Wichita, KS. It is set up with a comfy queen-sized bed with boho accents and lots of window light! If this is something you’re interested in, please do let me know!
"I love you a bushel and a peck. A bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck, and I love you so much, my baby."
Is the Whole Family Part of the Shoot?
You bet! While there will be a part of the session I will be doing some solo shots of your baby, my main focus is going to be on the family unit. This is one reason I often shoot in the master bedroom, in order to have enough room for the full family to snuggle with the newest addition. It provides a space for intimacy between everyone to hold hands, hug, and kiss your baby. Older siblings are definitely going to have some time in the spotlight, getting to hold, nuzzle and give kisses to their newest brother or sister. I find these to be some of my favorite moments to capture!
I love to have a little fun at all my sessions too, so if siblings aren’t cooperating, running down the hall or tickle fights might be a good solution to getting big feelings out. There’s also no pressure for brothers or sisters to perform. If they need a break, totally ok to move onto the solo baby shots or mom and dad shots while the older kids take a break!
What Should We Wear?
Being that this is in fact a lifestyle session, I do want you to feel comfortable and relaxed. Having said that though, I still wouldn’t advise yoga or sweat pants and a t-shirt. While these are cozy, they won’t be the most flattering for photos. After having a baby, especially if it was a c-section, your tummy will still be in recovery mode. It actually would serve you well to wear a maxi dress so you can feel semi-formal and you won’t have anything uncomfortable (like a waistband) pressing on your stomach. Maxi dresses are actually super comfortable in my opinion! I As always, my client closet is open for any mamas who would like to wear something a little more formal. I also will include a guide when booking with color palettes and texture ideas!
Don’t worry about having a full outfit for baby. I once showed up for a session and they had baby all dressed in adorable jean overalls, but in reality, it swallowed him up and distracted from his features. Something simple and neutral is best. I also bring lots of blankets (or choose from your selection) and often will simply swaddle your new bundle. Outfit changes aren’t necessary, but can provide for some variety!
How Long is the Session?
Typically, I allot about 90 minutes for newborn sessions. This is generally a good amount of time to allow for a variety of shots and to give small breaks if necessary. If you feed baby right before I come over, usually they are content for the length of the session. But I always allow wiggle room for fussy babies who may still need a feeding during the session. In fact, if mama is comfortable, I encourage nursing during the shoot to document some breastfeeding photos! This is totally at your discretion, but it is a memorable time in your life and is a beautiful expression of motherhood.