Newborn Photography
Before their shoot, clients often ask me questions about how to prepare for your newborn session. Let me run you through what you can look forward to from this type of portrait session.
What to Expect
Newborn sessions are very relaxed and I take my time to ensure that both mother and baby are at ease. These sessions can last up to four hours. This gives plenty of time for settling your baby, top-up feeds, nappy changes and cuddles. As well as all the portraits, of course!
I have a selection of props, hats, wraps and blankets for your baby but please feel free to bring along any additional items that have personal meaning to you.
If you have any specific requests, then please let me know.
I am also more than happy to take pictures with the parents and siblings as well.
There are always plenty of cups of tea and coffee available for the grown-ups, along with a biscuit or two!
I keep the studio very warm as many of the portraits are taken when your little one is without clothing. Please bear this in mind when thinking of your own clothing so that you are comfortable for the duration of the shoot.
How to Prepare
If possible, try to schedule a feed for when you get here. This will help your baby to settle and allow them to fall into a deep sleep. Even if you have fed before you leave home I will still ask you to give your little one another feed when you arrive, to make sure they are nice and full.
If your baby uses a dummy, then please bring this along as it can be really helpful.
Other than that really don’t worry about a thing, I will take care of everything for you.
The New Family
Take some time to think about yourself and your partner as I encourage all parents to be in a few portraits with their little ones. I know not every new parent feels amazing. But images with your baby will create lasting memories for you all to treasure. It is best to wear neutral clothing for parent shots; creams and neutral mid-tones work really well. Try to avoid anything with bold patterns or big logos as these can overshadow your baby. The same goes for large jewellery or watches. You might want to remove these for the family shots to ensure that the focus is on your little one. That way you will end up with timeless portraits to last you a lifetime.
Don’t Worry
Now you get to sit back and relax and let me work my magic.
I can help with any additional bottle-feeds too, should your baby need any during the session.
If your baby has an accident on the props, blankets or me please don’t worry. This happens all the time. It’s what we have washing machines for, right? I also advise a change of shirt for parents, just in case!
Baby Posing
The absolute priority in newborn posing sessions is baby safety. Babies are never put in positions that would be harmful to them. Many of the poses you see with babies are in fact composite images, in which supporting hands have been cleverly edited out.
This is a chance for you to sit back, relax and enjoy this precious time when they are so tiny.
After the Session
Around 1-2 weeks after your shoot, your images will be invited back to view your images in the studio and decide on which products you may like to purchase as a memory of this special time.
If thinking about wall art have places in mind where you would like to hand your memories so that you are aware of what size frames to invest in.
I hope that helps answer any questions you might have about how to prepare for your newborn session.
But feel free to get in touch if you would like to discuss it further.
Are you expecting a baby, or know someone who is? Are you are interested in booking a newborn studio session?
Take a look at my online booking diary to check out my availability. BOOK NOW.
Alternatively, info@samphirephotography.co.uk or call me on 07989 594236 to discuss.
I look forward to meeting you and your new baby when they arrive.