How do I prepare for a newborn session?

Bringing a new baby into this world is full of all kinds of stress! You have so many decisions to make from which pediatrician to use, what brand of diapers to buy, to nurse or bottle feed, nursery decor, and the list goes on and on.

One thing that should be stress-free is your newborn session! Sure, you need to find a photographer first (see my previous post about that here: https://www.littlebloomsphotography.com/blog/how-do-i-choose-a-newborn-photographer), but the rest should be taken care of! You will have a few things you need to do to prepare, but your photographer should handle all the rest. That's where Little Blooms Photography comes in!

All of newborns sessions are completely tailored to your preferences and we'll plan out every detail of your baby's first portrait session together during our consultation and planning appointment. My Chadds Ford studio is filled with beautiful props, headbands/hats, wraps, and even outfit options for expecting and new moms and older siblings. I promise to take great care in keeping you and your family as comfortable as possible during your portrait session.

In the meantime, here are the answers to some frequently asked questions on how to prepare for your session:

When should I schedule my session?
You should reach out to book by your third trimester, which gives us enough time to meet and plan. Then, as far as an exact date, since babies' births are unpredictable, I ask clients to contact me within 48 hours after birth so that we can set a definite date.

When will sessions take place?
Newborns are best photographed in the first 2 weeks of life, but ideally between 6-12 days old. This time can be extended to up to 6 weeks old for in-home (lifestyle) sessions. Sessions in the studio take place at 9:30am.

Do I need to bring props with me?
I have a large collection of props, blankets, hats, & headbands, so you do NOT need to bring any props to your session. However, if you have something specific you would like to use, please let me know ahead of time and we can try to incorporate it into the session.

What DO I need to bring with me?
Just yourselves, normal diaper bag items (diapers, wipes, bottles/milk if bottle feeding), a pacifier, clothes for parents and siblings to wear for pictures, and anything you need to feel comfortable. The studio has a changing table, bottle warmer, boppy, snacks, water, TV, free Wifi, and LOTS of toys for older siblings to play with to make your time here as relaxed and stress free as possible!

What do I wear to the session?
Anything you want - you can even show up in your pajamas! However, what you should wear for your portraits is a different question. You will have PLENTY of time to get ready for your pictures here since sibling/parent pictures are at the end of the session. 

Ok, so what should I wear for the family pictures?
I recommend clients wear simple, neutral shirts or dresses. Something timeless and classic. My favorite color choice is white. However, you can choose to wear black, or any other color like navy blue. However, no matter your decision, all people should be in the SAME color palette. Your clothes should NOT be the focus of your session. The first thing we should see your family connection, not your clothes.

What do I dress my newborn in?
Your newborn should come to the studio in JUST a diaper, socks, hat, and a blanket tucked around them. The less clothes we have to remove the less likely I am to disturb them before beginning to pose.

Do I need to do anything special to help my baby sleep for the session?
Yes, BUUUTTTT it's super simple!!! I ask all my clients to wake baby up 1.5 hours before they plan to get in the car to travel to the studio. During this time they should try to keep baby awake. They should give baby a bath at some point in there and give a full feeding as the LAST thing they do before getting in the car. Baby will fall asleep in the car and that's perfect!

If you have ANY questions, at ANY time, I am always available via email or phone. I truly want to make sessions as relaxed and as easy for you as possible!