So you decided to do a newborn photography session with a professional photographer? Congratulations! This is a beautiful way to capture memories of your family that both you and your baby will treasure forever.
Having a newborn is such a wonderful, chaotic time in your life. I know you have a million things going on, but it is worth taking a little bit of extra time to think about your session so that you have a smooth session and photos that you want. Here are a few tips!
Tips for Newborn Photography with a Professional
- Make sure your photographer's style matches your vision! I can't even begin to tell you how many enquiries I get asking about number of backgrounds and props. There are clearly no backgrounds and no props in any of my photos. It always shocks me that people call or write without even looking at my work. But it happens fairly frequently. Make sure you like their style before! There are photographers who have a cleaner aesthetic, use props, may look a little more film vintage, may pose baby or specialize in a certain pose or look. Make sure you love their portfolio! If not - move on.
- Be aware of timing. Before 3 weeks we can still get curly sleepy poses. After that baby stretches out and it is much harder to get baby asleep and wrapped. That's fine! But if you had your heart set on sleepy curly poses and your baby is 3 months old you have to be realistic.
- Take the time to read the prep guide your photographer has sent to you. I've spent a ton of time curating my prep guide so that it is as minimal as it can be while including the most pertinent info. I can tell who has read it and who hasn't. Sessions always work out, but it's just smoother with no surprises when my clients have read the prep guide.
- Be realistic about time. Babies don't listen to anything we say and can seem to be on their own schedule. Sometimes shoots are very quick and other times they might take a while.
- Relax! If you've booked with an experienced photographer I promise that they know how to take control of the situation and know what to do.
Are you a new parent or pregnant? Are you interested in newborn photos? You can see my portfolio here or contact me here.
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