Everything is new and sometimes scary for new parents, that includes Newborn Photo Sessions too!
Dont fret! Here are a few tips to ROCK your Newborn Session!
1. Take a deep breath and relax.
With a Newborn everything is new for you and for baby. It takes time to get into a rhythm with your little one and it can be difficult to predict when the next feed or nap will be. It's ok. My Newborn Sessions are 2 hours for a reason, I do not want you to feel rushed in any way so if baby is upset or needs to be changed, fed or just needs a cuddle there's time for that. I know you've had sleepless nights since your Newborn has arrived, you’re tired - physically and mentally. I don't care if your house is messy, or if you are in your pj's during your session, my focus is on your little one and documenting those little fingers, toes and perfection that is what you created.
2. Bump up the heat/ Turn off the air.
If you have a Winter baby, bump up the heat in your home a bit higher than usual. The warm temperature keeps baby nice and cosy. Dress yourself in layers (if you choose to get dressed!) that way as you warm up you can cool down by taking off a layer.
If you have a Summer baby, turn off your air conditioner before your Session. The cold air is just too cold for a Newborn as they are just learning to regulate their temperature. Once the air is off, they get cosy and are ready to drift off to sleep which is want we want for photos.
3. Feed and snuggle.
I bring everything needed to have a Newborn Session to your home. I have a bit of gear to unload and set up, during this time I recommend undressing baby down to his or her diaper. This usually wakes up baby if he/she had been sleeping, and at this time you can check to see if a diaper change in needed. Once that is done, it's time to wrap baby up in a nice snuggly blanket and try to give him/her a feed. When baby has a nice full tummy and has been burped they are usually content and ready to start.
4. Sit back and watch.
Now comes the fun part! When you were feeding, changing, snuggling I was busy setting up and getting backdrops and props ready. As said before, I bring everything that I need to the Session that includes a little tickle trunk full of blankets, bonnets, hats, and pretties. Once I have baby and begin shooting, you can look through and pick your favorite blankets, props and items to use in your session. After you have a few picked out you can find a comfy spot to curl up, relax and watch your little one during the Session.
FYI all of my props, blankets etc.. are washable. Your baby might poop/pee on them and maybe me too. It's OK. It's babies! It's what they do! I wash everything after every Newborn Session regardless if there is accident or not so please, please do not worry about it.
That's it! Easy Peasy. Now let's ROCK your Newborn Session!
Much Love,
CrystalB