Chances are, you might not know much about newborn photo sessions, especially if it’s your first baby.
Sure, there is lots of information on newborn photographer’s websites, but when it’s all new to you, you can feel a bit like you are drowning in a sea of information.
To help you make sense of it all, we’ve put together a list of things that are common knowledge to newborn photographers, but that you might not be aware of as yet!
1. Newborn photo sessions are best done in the first 3 weeks after your baby arrives
Newborn photo sessions are all about the sleepy, curled up poses.
These mimic the natural positions your baby held in the womb and are super cute. The older a baby is, the less happy and comfortable they are being posed in this way.
Your baby’s safety and comfort are your newborn photographer’s priority, which is why it’s best to get them into the studio within the first few weeks, if those are the types of images you are hoping will be achieved.
Tailored sessions may be offered after this age range, and your photographer will discuss this with you and manage your expectations.
Usually, beautiful galleries can still be achieved, with perhaps less variety on the poses that may be possible.
2. Wrapping is used to soothe and settle baby, as well as for the poses
At under 3 weeks your baby will love to be wrapped and swaddled.
Not only will your newborn photographer be able to create beautiful images of your baby all wrapped up, but this also allows them a chance to soothe babies if they are unsettled.
Your photographer will be skilled in wrapping to make it look beautiful on your images.
3. The studio will be very warm
The studio will be heated to keep it nice and toasty.
This is because while your baby is tiny, they require more warmth. It will also help when they are being undressed for naked shots. It keeps them feeling safe and settled, they won’t be disturbed by any cool air or draughts on their skin.
You should dress in layers for your newborn photo session, so you can remove some if you start to feel too warm.
4. Your photographer expects lots of pee and poop!
You could say it’s a hazard of the job! Some parents are shocked and embarrassed when their baby lets rip with a stream of pee or poop mid-session.
But this is normal and expected!
We don’t want bulky nappies spoiling the streamlined look of the wraps and outfits. And there is nothing uglier than a nappy ruining those cute little naked shots too.
Don’t worry! Your photographer is washable. As are the wraps, rugs and backdrops used.
If you’re intending on having parent/family shots, it’s a good idea to bring spare clothing, in case of any accidents.
5. Your newborn photo session is completely baby led
Your baby is not only the star of the show, they also LEAD the show too.
Newborn photo sessions allow time for feeds, top up feeds, dressing and undressing, soothing and settling. Your photographer will go at your baby’s pace, making for a relaxed and unhurried experience.
Typically, you can expect the session to last around 2 to 2.5 hours, but if your baby is done sooner, or takes longer – that is fine. Your photographer takes their cue from your baby.
They will never push a grizzly or unhappy baby.
Some babies need plenty of soothing and settling, and lots of top up feeds, (as well as little ‘baby whisperer’ tricks to get them to sleep) whereas others will nod off into a deep slumber straight away.
There is no right or wrong way for your baby to behave, which is why the session will be tailored to their needs throughout.
Sandra Cullen Photography – based in Greenwich – specialises in newborn, baby, and maternity photography.
Want to know more about my Newborn Photo Sessions? Head over to www.sandracullenphotography.com/newborn-photography-south-east-london/
Or how about a Maternity photoshoot to capture your beautiful bump? www.sandracullenphotography.com/maternity-photoshoots-greenwich/
