Many parents are choosing to take their newborn babies along for a photo session with a professional photographer. These photos capture the angelic beauty of your baby while they are still in the sleepy newborn phase.
Although the photos look magical, there’s a few behind-the-scenes tips to achieving a wonderful photo session. Here Mother & Baby blogger, Emily Murray, shares her advice for you.
- Do your research
There are many types and styles of photography when it comes to newborns and lots of photographers to choose from. Find someone who’s style you and your family love as these photos will be cherished forever.
The two main newborn photography styles are portrait and lifestyle. I like somewhere in-between as I’m not a huge fan of props and over-posing. That’s why I chose a photographer who keeps the photos looking natural while making the newborns look creamy and delicious.
Spend some time looking at photographers’ portfolios, websites and social media pages, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
- Ask around
Make sure you have spoken to others mums who have worked with your chosen photographer as you need to be able to trust them with your precious newborns.
- Safety is paramount
Safety as a professional photographer is most important. Your photographer must take all safety precautions at all times when handling your baby.
If you have any concerns or feel uncomfortable talk to your photographer before or during your session.
- Book in early
It is recommended to book your newborn photographer during your second trimester of pregnancy.
Newborns are best photographed in the first two weeks of life as they are much easier to pose into those adorable curly positions and they are generally quite sleepy throughout your session.
- Make sure you’re prepared
Be organised, especially if you have multiple children going to the shoot.
We had a shocking morning before our triplets’ photo shoot trying to get everyone organised and ended up being an hour late to our shoot!
Make sure you’re ready the night before as newborns are unpredictable at the best of times. Thankfully our photographer made us feel calm and relaxed when we arrived and we managed to have a fun, stress-free day at her studio.
- Communicate your expectations
Once you’ve chosen your photographer, talk to them about what you want out of the day.
Do you want group family shots, individual shots, shots with a favorite toy or in a favourite outfit? Show them some of your favorite pics from their website and tell them which photos drew you to them. By chatting about your expectations they’ll have a great idea about how to structure the day before you arrive.
- What to wear to the session
Dressing your baby in neutral clothing always works best for photos, and simple, smart-casual outfits are always a great option.
It is not recommended to wear clothing with logo’s or bold prints that could distract from your photos.
- Charge your iPad!
This one is super important if you have a toddler coming to the shoot!
It can be a long day for them, and most of them have a super short attention span! Some of the most beautiful shots we got on the day were all thanks to Peppa Pig entertaining our toddler.
- Be flexible and relaxed
It’s important to go with the flow. If you’ve told the photographer what you want out of the photo session trust them and enjoy the day. After all, they’re the artist and you need to let them do the job you’re paying them for!
- Allow plenty of time
Newborn photo sessions can take up to four hours. This time allows for feeding, settling and setting-up any props throughout your session. Having enough time also allows your photographer to create and capture amazing memories.
Written by Emily Murray from Zee Plus Three and Katie Fiorelli from Sugar Images
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