You're growing a tiny human
So you're growing a tiny human being! First things first; CONGRATULATIONS! I absolutely love babies! I swear every time I leave a newborn session I catch the "fever".
This is a wild and exciting time for you, especially if this is your first child! You crave the weirdest things, there are so many new things going on in your life. Maybe you feel better than you ever have (hopefully this is the case), but the last thing you want to do is miss out on capturing the very early day's of your child's life. You have been waiting so long to meet this tiny human that you solely grew!
You may be saying, help a girl out! As a mother, I am here to help you!
Contact me when you are approximately 36 weeks pregnant to book your newborn session to ensure my availability. After your baby is born, I will work with you to solidify the exact date and time of your session. Please call, text or email me right away so we can schedule it. I recommend scheduling your session when your baby is 7-10 days old, no later than 14 days old.
So now what? You’ve booked a newborn session. Let me start off by saying thank you for entrusting me with your baby. I work with families and babies several times a month, and I have two children myself. The most important part of your session is your baby’s safety. I am very patient and careful while working with babies, and will never force your baby into a pose that they are resisting. There are other key factors in a successful session, which is that the parents remain calm and relaxed throughout the session. Babies feed off their parent’s energy, and if anyone is anxious your baby will have a hard time settling down. Newborn sessions can last anywhere between two to three hours. Depending on your baby, the session may be shortened or may run long. I recommend that you do not schedule anything prior to your session or after your session that way your session is not rushed. You really do not need to bring much to your session, other than the obvious, diapers, wipes, a pacifier (if you have one), bottles, extra milk or formula, a change of clothes for baby and for yourself. Because, well you know, accidents happen. I do have extra blankets so do not worry if this happens.
Also, if you need to feed the baby during the session, FEED THE BABY! I will not be offended if you have to nurse your baby, and I will certainly be the grown up that you are yearning to have human-adult interaction with (trust me, this is a thing).
What do me and my family wear you might ask?
For momma's, I strongly believe neutral colors are best. Layer if you can depending on the time of year, but wear what is comfortable for you, i.e. tank top, camisole with a short or long sleeved shirt. That way if it’s too hot, you can be comfortable and remove the top layer. Jeans are fine too. Avoid prints. If you’re not sure what will work better bring all of it.
For dad's, again, neutral colors that are complementing what you’re wearing. I recommend a white, grey, dark green, navy or black plain v-neck, buttoned down top or polo. If dad's comfortable, I recommend a few bare skin to skin with baby shots. Mama's you're welcome to this too! Please feel free to let me know what you prefer and are comfortable with.
For siblings, I do have a small selection of clothing in my client closet that I will provide, however, please bring an outfit or two that are neutral colored, whether that's a romper, dress, or daper overalls. Please make sure your children's clothing fit snugly. Do not dress them in a size too big. Bring a white, grey or black t-shirt as well for their individual photos with baby. Please do try and iron your clothes.
I do have a large inventory of props/bows and wraps, but if there are props that you would like to be photographed with your newborn, (i.e. hat, blanket, badges) feel free to bring them, so we can customize your baby's session to what speaks to you and your family.
PRO TIP: Keep all outfits ready before you leave for you birth if possible. That way once you are back home in the newborn haze, you don’t have to concern yourself with it.
Newborn sessions are more about soothing the baby, than it is about photography the baby. So expect a lot of downtime, snuggling, nursing/feeding. Please make sure to bring your baby fed. If you live less than 20 minutes away from my studio, feed your baby before you leave. If you are more than 20 minutes away, be prepared to feed the baby at the studio. Bring an extra bottle or be prepared to nurse throughout the session. I keep the studio pretty warm to keep your baby comfortable and rested. If you have other children, feel free to have Dad take them and come back later as they may become bored and restless.
Bring extra snacks and water for yourself and your family. However, I typically have a well stocked kitchen.
Babies cry, and that’s okay, since it is their way of communicating. Do not worry if your baby does not like to swaddle. Once they are calm and relaxed, I will wrap them safely and comfortably. If your baby fusses it could mean a number of things. I have experience to know if they are hungry, uncomfortable or just not happy to be moved while sleeping. I will work as team with the parents to keep baby happy and safe.
For lifestyle type sessions in your own home, please follow the above steps. The main room needs to have a large window or plenty of natural light during the time of your session. I ask that the main room we will be working in be a between 80-85 degrees warm. If you have space heaters, turn them on, and keep the room door closed at least two hours prior to my arrival.
Lastly, if there are any natural markings (i.e. crows feet), that typically go away shortly after birth, please let me know if you prefer those be edited out, or remain as natural as possible! In my experience, each family has their preference!
