HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION
HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION
You’ve made it!! Your sweet baby is FINALLY HERE!! And with that comes lots and lots and LOTS of photos!! First and foremost, a HUGE Congratulations on your new bundle of joy! As a multiple time mama here, I know you are head over heels in love and wanting to document every single moment.
Feeling overwhelmed about the actual photography session? That is totally okay, don’t worry! Most parents are! Let me help with some tips on how to prepare for your lifestyle newborn photography session to make it stress-free and enjoyable.
1. Keep your sweet baby awake in the morning BEFORE your session.
One big mistake many new parents make is letting their baby sleep right up until the photography session. I know.. it’s tempting!! And easier for you to get ready and out the door. However, it’s important to keep your baby awake for a while before the session. “Why?!” Is a regular question I get.
This will help make them tired (they do not have that mental agility just yet) and more likely to sleep through the session. You can interact with your baby like talking to them, play with them, or even give them a sponge bath to keep them awake.
2. Feed baby 20 mins before your session.
A hungry baby = a FUSSY baby. A full tummy, a good burp or two, and a snuggle after keeping them awake and worn out will make a world of difference as we approach the photoshoot time. Be prepared that you might have to top him/her off a few times to keep that milk drunkness going during the photoshoot as well. Mama, if you are breastfeeding, stay hydrated and well fed yourself. Steer clear of gassy inducing foods if you are aware as well. If you formula feed, have extra on hand. Burp cloths are essential as well because spit-up happens. 🙂
3. Bring extra diapers
New babies pee and poop. A lot. You want to make sure you have a good stash to help out during incase of a blow out or a wet diaper occurs. Keeping baby dry helps keep them comfy and still.
4. Dress your baby in comfortable clothes.
This is super important. At some point if we are changing outfits, or getting into the first one, an easy to remove outfit is a big deal. Buttons and snaps can be frustrating to get on and off – so I usually recommend zipper sleepers. Not only are they easy to put on and off, (some photograph amazing), they keep baby warm and sleepy. I’ll provide suggestions on outfits ahead of time so this will make navigating what to bring easier!
5. Bring a pacifier even if baby does not use it.
Phew, this one is another great tip! A pacifier can be a great tool to help soothe your baby during the photography session as babies like to suckle. Even if your baby doesn’t usually use a pacifier, try bringing one just in case. The sucking motion can help calm your baby and make them more relaxed during the session in the event they wake and grump or startle. Suckling brings comfort. Don’t worry, we won’t photograph the pacifier/binkie! 😉
6. Prep the night before!
Pack and prepare the night before. Lay out outfits, have your bags packed for what you’re bringing for baby (and siblings as needed). Older siblings might need snacks and sippy cups to keep them hanging in there, and maybe even a reward for doing a great job! Mom and Dad, make sure you are well hydrated and fed so you’re not getting hangry or jittery during. I know the early days it’s easy to forget to eat, but you want to make sure you feel good and energized as best as possible.
And finally, remember to breathe, relax and enjoy the photo session. Your photographer is experienced and will guide you through the process of your newborn photoshoot. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or give input on ideas you might have on a wish list.
With that all being said, preparing for your lifestyle newborn photoshoot doesn’t have to be stressful. A little bit of planning and prep, you can have a smooth and successful and photography session. Congratulations again on your new sweet baby and have a wonderful photoshoot!
Big HUGS!
-Meg Gassler
