Tips to ensure a successful newborn session

1. Feed the baby and siblings!

Before I arrive, make sure baby is fed. A fed baby is a content baby. It doesn't matter to me if baby is asleep or awake.  We will go with the flow. If your little ones needs a top up while we are taking our images, we will pause and let baby eat.  These can also make for some special photo opportunities.  If siblings are taking part, make sure they've had a snack before the session.  Hangry kids and photography can be a bit tricky!

2. Warm your house!

If you'd like images of baby in just a diaper or diaper shirt then please crank your heat or turn down your ac.  A warm baby is a happy baby! We may feel hot but baby will be nice and toasty.  If baby will be fully clothed or swaddled then you can leave the temp as is.  We can do some diaper shots at the very end so they aren't too cold! 

3. Choose simple, timeless clothes for the baby

If you have an outfit you'd like baby to wear, please make sure it fits them!  When clothes are too big, the photos look awkward and baby looks like they are being swallowed up. Avoid dresses as they tend to ride up when baby is being held.   Try to have a plain diaper shirt on hand without logos.  White tends to be more timeless but if you have a colour scheme in mind then go with that! My advice is keep it simple.  We want to focus on your newborn and not their outfit.  I have a selection of neutral onesies and rompers that clients are free to use.  (see below for examples)

4. Choose simple clothing for yourselves

Parents dress so you feel comfortable and relaxed. Moms, if you want to dress up a bit and put on a long flowy dress, go for it! Just make sure you feel great.  You don't need to be matching (i.e. all wearing the same colour), but try to stay in the same tonal family. I would avoid really dark colours like black and navy. Also avoid super bright colours (think neon) and large patterns or clothes with logos.   Think about your home's decor and colour palette and try to coordinate.  Lighter, warmer tones always have a great timeless look and feel. If you want to wear darker colours, just make sure it's not going to clash with anything in your home such as the bedspread or paint colours.  Feel free to go with bare feet too!  Sport socks should be avoided.   Here is a link to some outfit ideas. I'm also happy to help you choose your outfits before the session.  Just send me some snaps and I'll give you my feedback! Make sure your nails are camera ready too as they may end up in some close up images!

5. Keep the swaddles simple!

Have some neutral swaddle blankets on hand too.  If baby is fussy, I like to swaddle them so they feel secure and warm!  I also have a small selection of wraps and knit blankets that I always bring with me to sessions so don't stress if you don't  have any! If you have a special blanket you'd like to include for some images, that's great too. 

6. Declutter areas near your big light sources

I generally shoot in the main bedroom, nursery and living room.  This all depends on the lighting situation.  Please try and remove any clutter, you would not like photographed. For example, take all the items off your night stands like phone chargers, glasses of water, books etc.   You don't need a spotless house, just a few tidy areas where we can work. I will help you move small items when I am there.  If your bedspread is  a super dark colour or bold pattern and you are looking for more bright photos, then I would suggest switching it out for something neutral and lighter.  Even a white/cream set of sheets or similar blanket can work.  Bedding with bright colours or patterns can cast shadows and colours on the skin which can be less flattering! 

7. Relax and be in the moment!

I know if can feel a bit awkward to have someone with a camera all up in your face but I promise you I will guide you every step of the way during your session.  The more relaxed your are, the more natural looking your photos will be.  If you have young siblings joining, don't worry about them acting like perfect angels.  I have 2 small children....I understand chaos. Sometimes it's fun to pick out a story to read as a family  so that the siblings can get a chance to calm down and get used to the idea of a stranger in their home.  Embrace the moment and enjoy your newest family member!