Congratulations on the arrival of your precious bundle of joy! As a newborn photographer, I understand the significance of capturing those early moments of your baby’s life through photography. Preparing for a newborn photoshoot can be an exciting and heartwarming experience for both you and your little one. In this guide, I’ll share valuable tips and insights to help you get ready for this special session, ensuring a smooth and memorable experience that results in stunning photographs you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Schedule the Session Early
Newborns change rapidly during their first few weeks, and the best time to schedule a photoshoot is within the first 10 to 14 days after birth. During this time, babies tend to be sleepier and more cooperative, making it easier to capture those adorable sleepy poses. We often book months in advance, however can usually find a way to accommodate a last minute booking. Don’t hesitate to reach out! https://kanatababystudio.com/lets-talk/
Plan the Shoot Location
At Kanata Baby Studio our newborn sessions take place in the studio. This allows me to fully control the temperature, lighting and general ambiance in the space. All of which is designed with your baby’s comfort in mind. Specifically set up to help Baby stay asleep for as much of the session as possible, often the warmth of the studio causes over tired parents to also take a much deserved nap on the studio’s couch.
Feeding and Sleep Schedule
A well-fed baby is more likely to be content during the photoshoot. Plan to feed your little one just before the session to ensure they are comfortable and relaxed. No matter your feeding style, there is comfortable space for you to feed baby once you arrive at the studio. If you are nursing, I recommend you avoid any foods that can cause your baby to experience gas in the day or two before your session. (While there are lots of fantastic articles on the web about what those foods are, I’d recommend: https://www.babycenter.com/baby/breastfeeding/will-my-breastfed-baby-get-gas-if-i-eat-certain-foods_9233 )
Prepare for Breaks and Patience
Newborns have their own schedules, and it’s perfectly normal for them to need breaks for feeding, diaper changes, or just cuddle time with you. A newborn photoshoot requires patience, as the baby’s needs come first. I work with your baby’s natural rhythm to capture the best moments. Most newborn sessions take 2 hours, but if baby is struggling to settle we can take up to 3 hours.
Consider Safety First
Safety is the top priority during any newborn photoshoot. I am well trained in safe posing practices and have over two decades experience handling delicate newborns. Don’t hesitate to ask about safety measures and procedures before the session begins. Throughout the session I will carefully listen to your baby to help determine what poses they are comfortable doing. Not all babies will do all poses, but all babies can be photographed beautifully.
Relax and Enjoy the Experience
Lastly, don’t forget to relax and enjoy the process! Your baby can sense your emotions, so staying calm and positive will help create a nurturing atmosphere for the photoshoot. Trust in your photographer’s expertise, and let the magic of the moment unfold naturally.
Preparing for a newborn photoshoot is a wonderful opportunity to create timeless memories of your baby’s earliest days. By following these tips and collaborating with a skilled newborn photographer, you can ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience that results in heartwarming images to treasure forever. Embrace this special time with your little one, and let the magic of newborn photography capture the essence of your growing family.