How to Rock your Newborn Session!

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

 

{Tips} Choosing a Photographer

Whether your planning a Maternity, Newborn, Children or Family Session (even a wedding for that matter) here are a few tips on how to choose the best photographer for you.  

1. Find a style you LOVE.

Do you imagine your family outdoors wandering through an open field, a studio Session with posing, backgrounds and props, or a relaxed Lifestyle Session in your home snuggling with your kids? All styles of sessions have their advantages and limitations, so it helps to know which look and style appeals to you.

2. Find a photographer whose style matches yours & fits your needs.

style -

Now that you are leaning towards a style you like, it's time to search for a photographer. Depending on your area, there could be a handful or many to choose from.

Take a look at the images on their website. Do your styles mesh? If you like a more posed style go with a photographer who shows that on their website and knows how to put your family into the desired pose. If you love the candid lifestyle look, you are going to choose someone who has a more journalistic style on their website. You don’t want to choose a photographer whose style doesn’t fit yours or what you want the final product to look like or you will be unhappy with the whole experience!

Also, check if there is a photographer that specialize in the style you love or the type of Session you are wanting to book. If they specialize, it means that they have exclusively studied that style of photography and have experience in that genre. For example: You may love a boudoir photographer’s style but want family photos, which might not be a good choice as they may not have the knowledge or experience working with children or groups.

needs -

Depending on the photographer, they may not offer digital files to purchase which may be a big deal if you are a DYI'er and want to be able to print the images yourself...or maybe you want a high quality album or canvas, you probably will not be hiring a photographer that only offers digital files.

3. Is there a connection?

Take a minute and read their 'about' page.  Does their personality shine through or does it sound like every other 'about' page you've read?  Can you relate in some way or feel a connection with them?  Are they connected to a cause or charity that you think is worth while?  Do you think this someone you would like to work with?

4. How much should you spend?

It is a great idea to establish a budget when searching for a photographer as custom photography can have the price point of anywhere from hundreds of dollars to thousands of dollars.  Talk with your partner, this should be something that is decided on together so you are both on the same page.

Ask the photographer that you've narrowed down your list to for their product menu or price list, it will give you an idea of what your budget needs to be to work with them.  Starting a photo session fund where you set aside a bit of money each month may be something to consider or ask the photographer if they offer a payment plan.  Figure out a way to make it work if you really feel a connection with a particular photographer and you love their work.

Choosing a photographer can be rewarding experience when you are able to find someone whose style and personality are the perfect match for your family.  The images you have with your children today will be their most loved possessions someday. Take the time, make the investment and spend a couple of hours with the most important people in your life documenting who you are as a family at this particular moment in time.

Good Luck in your Search!

~CrystalB