Preparing for your newborn session
What is a “lifestyle” session?
It is exactly what it sounds like, personal and representative of your lifestyle! While many studio newborn sessions focus on your baby, perhaps swaddled + laying in a basket with various different backdrops, a lifestyle newborn session focuses on what candid life looks like with a newborn. While I definitely include photos of your little one alone, there is so much more to this session! This type of session involves natural poses in the comfortable setting of your home. Everyone in the family is included (at no extra cost), even your fur babies. Coming to my client’s home lets me tell their story in a way that I can’t in a traditional studio. My aim is to give you an experience that is relaxed and natural while documenting this huge milestone.
When should I book my session?
A lot of photographers may ask that you book your session in advance. I do things a little differently. First of all, babies are unpredictable!! They can arrive a week early or a week late and these surprises can affect when your newborn session should be scheduled. Generally, I always tell my clients to give yourself a week to recover and get into a routine with your baby. This is a huge adjustment and while you’re in the middle of trying to figure everything out, the last thing you’re going to want is a camera in your face.
The best time to schedule your newborn session is anytime from 7-20 days old. As best as you can, I would avoid scheduling your session too close to the 3-week mark as babies tend to cluster feed at that time, making it a lot more difficult to focus on your photos.
You do not need to schedule your session months in advance. I always have time slots in my schedule available for newborn sessions. Typically these sessions are done on a weekday therefore they are easy to fit in. See how you’re feeling and then reach out and I will provide you with some different dates and times available.
Before I arrive:
It’s no secret that babies sleep a lot. But sometimes it’s like they know picture day is coming and their sleep patterns don’t quite align with the scheduled session.
Try to keep your baby awake for a while before I arrive. Every baby is different so there are no guarantees but this will help your baby to sleep through the session!
Try to feed your little one a full meal just shortly before I arrive! This is will result in a happy “milk-drunk” sleepy baby!
If you are unsure what you want your baby to wear for the photos and would like to see the options I will be bringing, keep your baby wrapped in a blanket and in a clean diaper. I always like to get a few photos of your baby in a diaper so we can start with those while you browse through the newborn client closet!
What to wear?
Big question! Chances are, you haven’t had a second to even think about it. All of a sudden your baby is here and you’re adjusting to a new life and major lack of sleep. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Browse through my client closet and see if there are any dresses that feel like you! Let me know a day or two before your session which ones you like and I’ll bring them along.
Otherwise, the most important thing to keep in mind is that you want the focus to be on your little baby in all the photos. So opt for neutral and soft colours that won’t detract from your little bundle of joy. Try to avoid flashy patterns.
Do I have to buy anything for the session in advance?
Well that is totally up to you. If you have a specific look in mind and want to recreate it, by all means! However, rest assured that I will show up with a ton of outfit options for your baby. I also have a number of props such as swaddles, baskets, blankets etc. I’ve got you covered!
Where will we take the photos?
You’re dealing with a whole lot of “new.” No one expects your home to be immaculately dusted with freshly washed floors. The less stuff you have laying around, the less there is to take away from the main focus. Try to focus on these 3 areas and simply keep them clear of any extra clutter:
The living room, the nursery, your bedroom.
And lastly, don’t forget to…
Relax and don’t stress. Babies can sense if you’re tense so just breathe and we will take things slow. If we need to take a break to feed or change your baby, not a problem at all. We have more than enough time for it.
Ask for help beforehand! Grandparents jump at any chance to be helpful. Why not see if they can stop by before the session to help you get things in order or help with other siblings/pets!
Focus on your baby and forget I’m even there. Easier said than done for sure, but I really want to focus on the natural moments between you and your baby.
Again, these are simply suggestions! A big part of photographing newborns is the ability to adapt and make the best of whatever situation comes up. So no matter what, we WILL get these beautiful photographs of your family.
I absolutely can’t wait for your newborn session.
xx - Jenny