It’s important to remember that posed newborn photography takes a lot of time and each session is usually 2-4 hours long. Every baby is different and some babies require a little extra time for snuggles or a snack. This is totally normal and it’s important that you come ready to relax and know that your baby will be well taken care of. This post will help you in preparing for your newborn photo session.
When your baby comes for their newborn photo session, you’ll be able to rest and relax on the sofa or you are welcome to come into my posing room and watch as I work with your baby. I keep beverages and light snacks on hand for you to munch on during the session. I also keep the studio well stocked with plenty of diapers and wipes so don’t panic if you forgot them! (I may have done this a few times myself when I was a new parent)
I keep my studio warm- about 80 degrees so you’ll want to dress accordingly. Many of the photos will be of your baby in their birthday suit so it’s important that we are keeping them as cozy and warm as possible. I also play a white noise machine to mimic the sounds of them being in the womb. I will work very slowly with your baby to ensure that they are always comfortable.
Some helpful tips to help in preparing for your newborn photo session:
- Please dress your baby in a button-down outfit like pajamas. This way they are easy to undress and are not being startled by having a onesie pull up over their head.
- It’s best to start the session on a full belly so feeding your baby and making sure they have a good burp right before you put them in their car seat is best and allows their tummy to settle a bit during the drive.
- If it’s possible, try keeping your baby stimulated and awake an hour or so before you leave the house for the session. A bath can help keep them awake. It is important that your baby is sleepy so that your session goes smoothly and I am able to capture lots of adorable images.
- When you arrive for your newborn photo session, please leave the baby in their car seat so they stay cozy and warm. I will take them out when we are ready for the session.
- Following the above tips is helpful in preparing for your newborn photos, however, it is also important to remember that every baby is different and we will take time for lots of snuggles and snacks to ensure that your baby is cozy and comfortable.
What to bring:
- Pacifier. Please bring a Soothie brand pacifier (no animal attachments, please). These pacifiers are great because they don’t leave red rings around your baby’s mouth. Even if your baby doesn’t typically take one from you they will usually take one from me. It provides enough of a distraction and allows me to perfectly position those little hands and feet.
- Gas Drops. Most babies have gas and it can be uncomfortable for them if they aren’t able to let it out. This will help in the event that your baby is super gassy and unable to burp or release it on their own. You can read more about giving gas drops to your baby by clicking HERE.
- Bottled Milk. If you are bottle feeding at all bring more milk than you think your baby is going to need. Baby modeling is hard work and makes babies very hungry! Feel free to bring your pump to the session. There are plenty of outlets near the sofa for your convenience. If you’re breastfeeding, we will take plenty of breaks to make sure your baby isn’t hungry.
- Extra Clothes for YOU! Poop happens. It’s just what babies do and it’s perfectly fine. It’s better to be prepared just in case.
- If you’ve received any handmade blankets, please feel free to bring them and we will see if we can work them into the photos.
The most important thing to remember is just to relax and enjoy your session!
Hi! I’m Jen Rizy and I am a professional newborn photographer located in the Austin area. I love working with little babies and their beautiful mommas to create special photos that will be cherished for a lifetime. You can see more of my newborn photos by clicking HERE. You can schedule your newborn photo session by emailing me at: jen@hellophotographyaustin.com. I look forward to hearing from you!
