The newborn stage is fleeting. It doesn’t feel like it when you’re in the trenches of caring for a newborn, but they really only are that little for such a short time.
That’s why newborn photography is so important to capture the beauty of your baby’s first days and weeks. But at the same time, the prospect of doing anything with a newborn is daunting, let alone a newborn photoshoot.
I’ve put together some tips on how to prepare for a newborn photoshoot to take the stress out of your preparation.
Check in with your photographer
If you have any questions or concerns before your newborn photoshoot, ask your photographer. That’s what we're here for. If answering a few questions can help you feel more relaxed on the day of your shoot then I’m here for it! If you’re relaxed, your baby will be relaxed and it will show in the final photos.
I’ll always chat to you about the location of the newborn photoshoot – either in my studio or at your home. I’ll also ask some questions to understand which props will be best to use. If you have a particular pose or photo you would like me to include, please let me know.
I’m an experienced newborn photographer and have three children of my own so I know what it’s like! I want you to come to your newborn photoshoot feeling both comfortable and confident so you can relax and enjoy the experience.
Time your feeds and sleeps
I’m going to preface this one by saying that I understand how unpredictable newborns can be. Sometimes the best laid plans go out the window… and that’s ok! It all comes with the territory.
As best you can, try to bring your baby to the photoshoot well rested and well fed. The best age for a newborn photo shoot is generally in the first 14 days after they’re born. This is when they’re still lovely and sleepy.
If you can feed them before the shoot, they’ll likely drift off to sleep, which is what we want. If that timing doesn’t work out, we can always stop for a quick feed during the shoot.
Pack your bags
Going anywhere with a newborn requires quite the baggage. While I try to keep it as simple as possible for you, there’s still some things you’ll need to pack.
Here’s what to bring to a newborn photoshoot:
- Extra bottles of formula or breast milk
- Nappies and wipes
- A change of clothes for your baby
- A dummy
- Any special blankets, swaddles or outfits you want to use during the photoshoot
- A brush or comb
- Snacks and water for yourself
As for siblings, I usually suggest that if you’re including them in the newborn photoshoot, that you have a family member who can then take them home.
Packing your bags is something you can do before the photoshoot to give you a sense of calm on the day. You’ll know that you’ve got everything you need and I’ll provide the rest.
Enjoy the moment
You’ll look back on your newborn photos for many, many years to come. The photos will be a reminder of those beautiful moments.
But a newborn photoshoot might also be the first moment you’ve had in those early newborn days to stop and take a breath. To watch your baby in awe of what you’ve created. Enjoy it. Leave the details to me – you’re in excellent hands – and simply sit back and relax.
That’s what I’m here for. Whether it’s a newborn photoshoot, pregnancy photography or beautiful family photos, I want you to feel relaxed while I capture your special memories and moments. If your baby starts crying, or they do a poo while their nappy is off, I’ll just roll with it. Over the years, I’ve seen it all!
Place your newborn photoshoot in good hands
I hope you’ve now got a good idea of what to expect from a newborn photography session. If you’re located in Melbourne and surrounding areas, I would be delighted to be entrusted with your newborn photoshoot.
If you have any questions about my newborn photography packages, please get in touch.
