How to Prepare for Your Newborn Session with Me

When you’ve had a brand-new baby, the last thing on your mind is probably preparing for your newborn session. You’re sleep deprived, thinking about bottles or nursing or diapers, and if you’ve given birth, you’re dealing with your new post-partum body. I really encourage you to trust the process for your newborn photos, even if you’re feeling nervous about it. Here are some tips for you as you get ready:

1. Don’t back out: I have some mamas who don’t feel like they can have their photos done after giving birth, because they didn’t know what their new body would look like. I really plead with you not to back out! You won’t regret having newborn photos done when that little tiny baby is graduating from high school. You won’t be looking at the few extra pounds or remember how tired you felt. You will be SO glad you have those images!
2. Talk to me about timing: A lot of parents of new babies are worried about the feeding schedules of their little ones. Whether you are breastfeeding or bottle feeding, there can be challenges that come with eating, such as trying to use a nipple shield or issues latching. That can make feeding in public harder. I want you to know that we do everything we can to ensure a comfortable and stress-free environment where you can have as much privacy as you want to feed, nurse, or do whatever you need to do.
3. Make sure you eat something yourself. Feeding everyone in the family is really important, especially if you’re including siblings. Make sure to get enough protein and water into everyone who is participating in the session, because you’d be surprised how that can really effect everyone’s attitudes! Full bellies make for happy kiddos (and parents). Just steer clear of getting everyone dressed until after a meal or snack! 
4. Prepare for the unexpected: Okay, you can’t really prepare, I know! As a mom, I know how those little things crop up in inevitably on picture day. I suggest to pack a few spare outfits for baby for your newborn session, along with extra diapers and wipes. A bib over baby’s outfit also helps until right before the shoot starts to prevent drips or stains. Don’t stress out if the baby has a blowout diaper, either. It happens. We will figure it out together, and after years of doing this, I have seen just about everything! 
5. Trust me:  I love children, and I love my clients! Together, we will work out any challenges during your shoot. But I also want you to go into it with an open mind and a positive attitude. Being able to laugh and smile really does reflect in the way your photos turn out. Your session should be a happy memory, and set a good example for your children of what to expect during family photos (happiness rather than stress!). Lastly, CELEBRATE however you can after your session. Especially with little ones, you want them to associate photos with happiness and joy. Go out for dinner or for ice cream after. 

If you’re ready to book with me, please contact me. No matter when you’re due, we can find the best date to tentatively schedule your shoot (I know babies can come when they want, so I work with my clients if they need to make a shift). I can't wait to work with you!