4. How old should the newborn be?
We love newborn sessions when the baby is less than 10 days old. This is the optimal time of when babies curl up in those cute little sleepy poses that we all love so much. When they are older, they are more alert and can take longer to settle into position. After 2 weeks, some babies start to experience baby acne, which can sometimes be hard to effectively edit. But, if there is a medical reason not to come early, or you are late in planning, don’t worry. You still need these newborn photos! We have photographed newborns up to 8 weeks old and have still made beautiful lasting portraits. Find out how your photographer wants to handle the booking if your baby has not arrived yet. Some photographers might want to get a tentative date on the calendar ahead of time. Others might say to wait until the baby is born to contact them. We like to know your due date so we can keep it on our radar, but then call us immediately after the baby is born. Ok, you can call your family first, then call us second.
5. What time of day is best for the session?
Mornings or early afternoons are typically best. Try to arrange the session time so that it overlaps with nap time. Our studio uses natural light for the majority of newborn photos, so an evening session is not ideal. Typically babies are more content in the mornings and early afternoons. This might mean several things in advance to your scheduling. The members in your family might need to make arrangements to be there that time of day. Your spouse might have to take a morning off work if they are not on leave. Your kids might have to get out of school early, etc.
6. Have a pacifier handy
The first time I heard that they weren’t giving pacifiers to new babies at our local hospital I was surprised. I don’t mean this to be an argument for or against pacifiers… but hear me out. The session will go so much smoother if we have a pacifier to sooth the baby with. Your baby will settle into those sleepy curled up newborn poses that you love so much easier if we have a pacifier. You don’t have to use the pacifier any other time at home if you don’t want to… but trust me, you will be glad you have one at the time of the session.
7. Think about the products you want from the session.
It is easier to think about this ahead of time instead of waiting until it is time to order. What are you wanting out of the session? If possible, meet ahead of time with your photographer to look at samples and go over ideas. Do you want a beautiful keepsake album that you can pass down to your baby? Would you like a stunning canvas or framed print to display in the nursery? Will you need gifts for grandparents? Would you like custom birth announcements to send out to your family and friends? Having a plan will help you in the future!