How to Prepare for Your Newborn Photo Session 

The first days of your baby’s life will be a whirlwind, whether you’re becoming a parent for the first time or you’re a seasoned pro. Those days are filled with adjusting to life as a bigger family, getting to know your baby, and healing from childbirth on top of it all. Yet in the midst of all this, you know that your baby will be growing up before you know it, so it’s more important than ever to capture their first days on film while you can.

When it comes to your baby’s newborn portraits, being prepared is rule #1. After decades of working with families during these very tender first days, I’ve put together a list of tips to help you plan ahead for a smooth session and newborn photos you’ll treasure.

Choose the Right Photographer

Newborn photography is a very specialized skill that requires knowledge beyond other types of photography. You need a photographer who knows how to safely handle your baby and get the idyllic poses you want.

I’m proud to work with growing families on a daily basis to provide them with portraits they’ll cherish forever. With nearly 30 years of experience along with constant courses in the latest and greatest techniques, I put my dedicated expertise to use to make each newborn photography session safe and special.

I gladly offer a variety of package options so you can choose what fits best with your budget and your vision. I include family poses in every newborn photo session at no additional cost, and you’ll receive an extensive online gallery so you can choose the photos you want. 

Book Your Session Early

You rarely know exactly when your baby will arrive, and that can make scheduling a challenge for newborn photo sessions, but don’t wait until your baby is born before you contact my newborn photo studio. Sessions can book up months in advance. Instead, reach out to me as soon as your doctor has given you an expected due date. This way, I can get you on the schedule and if your baby arrives earlier or later than expected, we may be able to make adjustments.

Plan Your Wardrobe 

You don’t need to worry about what your baby will wear for the photo session. I have a well-stocked client closet of clothing, wraps, props, and sets for newborns. But I also include family poses in every newborn session, so you want to plan a coordinated wardrobe for the rest of your family too.

It’s typically best to go for a coordinated palette of neutrals. Think about the colors you may want for your baby’s gallery and what neutrals may look best with those color schemes. Be sure to bring an extra change of clothes for each member of your family as well – when babies are involved, all bets are off and accidents happen!

Stock Up for Your Session 

Depending on the package you choose, you may be in the studio for several hours for your newborn photo session. Throughout that time, I want you and your family to be as relaxed and comfortable as possible, so be sure to bring everything your family will need for those hours. That could include snacks and drinks, entertainment for your baby’s siblings, extra diapers and bottles for the baby, your pump, and so on.

In fact, some families like to plan a fun outing with their other children during their newborn's photo session. Photos of the entire family are always the first portraits I take, so you can bring the entire family for your first photos, then bring your other kids to a playdate or somewhere else fun during the remainder of the newborn session.

Plan for Any Special or Personal Items

Some families have certain items that are close to their hearts that they want to incorporate into their baby’s newborn portraits. That might include a parent’s military uniform or first responder uniform, a family heirloom, religious symbols, or other pieces. I’m happy to incorporate any of these into your baby’s photos. Discuss your vision with me in advance so I can be sure to have the sets and backgrounds we’ll need, and make sure to bring those special items ready to be photographed.

Making Your Baby’s Newborn Photos Even More Special

Your baby’s first professional portraits will become family treasures that you will cherish as the years go by, and I’m honored to be the one to bring your vision for these photos to life. Remember, though, that every newborn session takes time and patience, so relax and trust that you will get the beautiful photos you want. The tips above can help to make your newborn photo session a smooth experience for the whole family. To book your newborn photo session today, contact my Hickory, NC photography studio.