Newborn Photography Tips

Whether this is your first or your fifth little bundle, I hope these lifestyle newborn photography tips help you prepare for your time documenting this milestone.

Newborn photography tips

1 – Before the Session: 

The best time to schedule is when you are pregnant. The session should take place within the first 2 weeks of your baby’s birth. You should schedule a tentative session based on your expected due date. Once you let your photographer know when your baby has arrived, they will confirm the planned session date. Sessions should typically take place mid to late morning as that brings in the best window light.

Newborn Photography Tips: Book while you are still pregnant.

2 – Your Home:

Since the lifestyle newborn session takes place in your home, you want it as clutter-free and cleaned up as best as possible. You shouldn’t worry too much about cleaning, so please don’t think it’s necessary to have a spotless home. The session tends to focus time in the nursery and parents bedroom, but your photographer may move in different areas of the home based on lighting and composition. Less is more, so don’t feel that your home needs to be perfectly decorated. What you should strive for is simple, classic images without distraction. If you have a white duvet, you may want to have that on the bed. But, any neutral color with work as well.

3 – During the Session:

The focus of the session is based on the connections between parents and their newest bundle. Newborns are happiest in their favorite place, your arms. So, most of the photos should reflect those quiet moments that you cherish when it seems like no one is watching. Some photos will be taken of the baby alone once he or she is sleepy and in a good position to do so. If baby is sound asleep when your photographer arrives, they will start with that. They would also be happy to get a few photos with siblings as well. Lifestyle newborn photography sessions do not include posing newborns in props such as baskets, buckets, etc.

Newborn Photography Tip 4 – What to Wear:

For attire – parents should wear simple, solid colored clothes. Neutral, soft colors tend to have a very timeless feel (pastel, blues, blush/pink) to the photos. But, feel free to add pops of color if that is your style. You want you comfortable as well. Think long flowy dresses, comfortable tops and skirt, whatever you are happy in, it will reflect in your photos. For your little one, simple outfits photograph well. A solid colored onesie. A solid romper/dress. Or just a diaper, or with a diaper cover. The key is keeping it simple and making everyone look cozy. Photographers tend to like babies wrapped in a light blanket, so if you have a favorite blanket/swaddle or one with special meaning, definitely incorporate that into the session.

Newborn Photography Tip 5 – Baby’s Schedule:

You will work around baby’s schedule for the entire session. Just before the session, baby should be clean and well fed. The session will last anywhere from 1-3 hours, so that you have plenty of time for baby to get relaxed and sleepy. This allows for plenty of time for cuddling, feeding, and diaper changes. A warm home is preferred for a sleepy baby. Close to 80 degrees is ideal, especially if they will not have any clothes on.

It would be an honored to photograph your new bundle of joy. You will enjoy these precious moments for a long time to come! Contact me today.