Parents Newborn Photography Guide

Congratulations on your new baby! Thank you so much for trusting me to capture the purity of your new little one.

Newborns are a blessing and I consider myself blessed to be around these little gems.

Here are some tips to help plan a successful Newborn Session with me.

~Booking~

Please ensure to contact me as soon as baby is here or on its way. Keep me posted during your pregnancy. I will be in touch often. Any information good or bad please inform me. I’m also a mother and a great listener. I’m here if you need anything. When baby is born we need to schedule a session before baby turns 14 days old. This is important as baby is more sleepy and easy to pose into positions.

If baby has been circumcised please make sure session isn't until after the 5th

day from procedure.

~BABY~

~For babies who are breastfeeding, the mother's diet is the baby's diet. For about 24-48 hours, it is important to eliminate any foods from the mother's diet that may cause baby to have gas or an upset tummy. Certain vegetables, spicy food, large amount of caffeine.
~In the 8-10 hours leading up to the session, it is

very important to feed your baby as much and frequently as possible to ensure a full belly. This helps to ensure that baby is not fussy due to hunger and allows baby to enjoy a nice long nap during the session.

Most importantly, try to keep baby awake for 1-2 hours before the session. Often times this can be the most difficult tip to follow, but it is so important to have a very tired baby in order to get those curled up poses. If you find keeping your little

one awake is difficult, try giving baby a bath before session.

~Feed your baby just before coming to your session. He or she may also need another "top off" once you get here to get fully settled into a deep sleep. Please dress your baby in minimal button/ zip up clothing so that nothing needs to be pulled over their head. (NO ONESIE) PLEASE!!

~Being a little model is a lot of work and baby may need extra feedings. If baby is formula fed, please bring extra. If baby is breast fed please be prepared to nurse while here at

the session. If you breast feed your baby and you are open to the idea of bringing a bottle of pumped milk (or formula), sometimes that is helpful in getting baby really full as well. If not, that's ok too!

~Please bring a pacifier. Even if you haven’t

used one yet, do not plan to use one at all or baby doesn’t seem to take to it, it can really help soothe your baby for the 2-3 hours that I will be posing him or her. If you don’t happen to have one, I keep unopened ones here in the studio. ~Baby will be nude for

most of the time during the session. However, do bring extra diapers as I will use them in between poses. Because baby will be bare most of the time, be prepared for accidents. Don't be embarrassed or feel bad, they happen 99% of the

time. All items are freshly washed for every baby. Bring extra clothes for yourself and others just incase you get hit.

~Family~

If you choose to have images taken with family and/or siblings remember to keep your attire very simple. Often times a plain shirt in a neutral colour

like white, black, tan or grey looks best and will not detract from baby. Stay away from shirts that may have images, writing or logos on them. Same goes for siblings. Just make sure to coordinate everyone. Once you know what you’re wearing, please let me know so I can prep my end.

~Remember to have both mom and

dad's hands and nails manicured. It doesn't need to be anything special, just clean and trimmed. Your hands will most likely make their way into the photographs as well.

~ Just Mommy & Baby. Mom please wear something you're comfortable in. Black or white thick strap tank top will look good for those mommy and me poses and YOGA pants. I remember how I felt after my children were born. That last thing I wanted to do was be in photos. As a photographer I can see what others can’t. I can angle my shots to make everyone look their best.

Faces don’t always have to be in photos, photoshop is your best friend so are spanx. Please prep your hair and a little bit of make-up. Those two things will help you feel better. Embrace your Mom Bod. You just created life.
~ Just Daddy & Baby. Dad please make sure you are wearing something with no buttons on shirt. This may hurt baby during poses on your chest. A simple Black or white under shirt always look great.

~Session & Props~

All props and outfits are included in the shoot. Please ensure you notify me color preference and props you have seen used from other sessions you desire to have in yours before your session. I will then use my artistic side and prep your Newborn Shoot. Every shoot is different. I try to make each

one unique. I’m a very natural, rustic, earthy, organic photographer. I use studio light that

mimics natural light.

~ Pinterest inspirational photos are welcomed. You can send them to me anytime before session. I make majority of my props and outfits. If you like something please give me about a two week notice so I can order it or make it.

~ You are welcomed to bring anything to the session that you wish to be part of the newborn shoot. ( Blanket, booties, outfit) etc....

~What to expect during your newborn session~

~Newborn photography sessions can and most often do take a very long time. I quote a time frame of 2-4 hours. Because of the length of time that you will be here you may want to bring a snack or something to drink. You may also want to bring something to do like a read a book or use a laptop. You're also welcome to just sit back, relax and watch me

work.

~I also ask that you arrange a way for any older siblings to

leave the studio after they are done being photographed. A quiet session is best. I’m sure it will not be entertaining to older siblings.

~I try to keep the studio nice and warm for baby, so dressing yourself in layers may be a good idea.

~Ultimately, your baby will determine how the session will go. If your baby is fussy, do not worry or get stressed, he or she will pick up on this. Just know that your baby is in good hands and I will care for them like I did with my own babies.

~The safety and comfort of your baby will always be my top priority. I will not force your baby into any pose or pose your baby in any way that is unsafe. Some

babies may fuss and cry while they are being posed just because they don't want to be messed with and this is normal. However, if at anytime you feel uncomfortable or feel that your baby needs you or anything else please let me know.
~ During the session I may have you assist me. Like I said above, safety is first and If I need the head held or basket I will ask you.

~Please know that by following these tips you are setting your baby up for a successful newborn photography session. With that being said, please do not get discouraged if you do follow these tips and baby still seems to have no intentions of going to sleep or is super fussy for the session. I will reschedule, or suggest more of a lifestyle shoot in your home.
If you have any questions about your upcoming session please do not hesitate to contact me. I look forward to working with you and your new little one.