Today's blog post is by a guest blogger and fellow Photographer Misty Hooper from Misty Hooper Photography. I've worked with Misty as she was a second shooter for me during a wedding last month. It was a fun day and she and I clicked right from the start. I asked her to write a Tuesday Ten post for me and she choose "What to expect during a newborn photoshoot". I agree with everything she wrote! Enjoy!
Meet Misty:
Photo Credit: Stacey Moss
What To Expect During a Newborn Photoshoot
Photographing newborns is such a joy! There is something
about seeing those new little babies and being able to capture their first
moments and preserve them for a lifetime. Often times new moms have lots of
questions about newborn sessions because it’s a new experience! Hopefully this
article will help clear up any questions for new moms and let the family know
what to expect for a newborn session.
#1-Scheduling
When you decide to schedule a newborn session, the
photographer will schedule a tentative date based around your due date. We all
know that babies can come whenever they decide! Having a tentative date gives
the photographer a base line to work with their schedule but always contact the
photographer once your baby does make its big arrival. Newborns are best
photographed within the first ten days of their birth. This time frame allows
the baby to still be flexible enough for those adorable poses and sleepy enough
to keep their eyes closed for the session.
#2-Preferences
When you schedule a newborn session, I always love to have a
conversation with my clients about what they are looking for in the newborn
pictures. Do you only want pictures of the baby? Do you want some of the family
incorporated in the pictures? Do you have specific props or outfits that you
would like to use? Asking these questions will help me build a session that is
perfect for you and your expectations!
Photo Credit: Stacey Moss
#3-Feeding
It is always important that the baby has a full stomach
before we start the shoot. Photographers often refer to the baby as being “milk
drunk”. Making sure that the baby is fed right before the shoot allows the baby
to be in a great state of sleep for the shoot to maintain those adorable poses.
If the baby needs to feed during the shoot that is not a problem at all! Many
newborn photographers are willing to take as many pit stops as you need to make
sure that the baby is happy and full!
#4-Accidents
It is very common for newborn babies to have accidents
during their photo session. Please don’t worry about them getting anything
dirty! Many photographers expect something to happen so they have plenty of
extra wraps and blankets ready. Make sure to bring the wet wipes and diapers
along!
#5-Diapers
#5-Diapers
Many newborn photographers love taking pictures of the
babies without their diapers on. Newborns are so cute in a relaxed state and
looking as natural as possible. If you wanted some pictures of the newborn
without their diaper on, make sure that you show up to the session with the
diaper loosely on so there isn’t any marks on the baby’s skin from the diaper
elastic. It also allows the photographer
to easily slip the diaper off without waking the baby.
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Photo Credit: Stacey Moss
#6-Heat
It should be really warm during your newborn’s session. This makes sure that the baby is comfortable
and stays asleep. If you are having the session in your own home, make sure
that the heat is turned up just before the session. If any members of the family get
uncomfortable with the heat, make sure they take a break by stepping outside to
get some fresh air! The most important thing is making sure that the baby is
comfortable during the session.
Photo Credit: Stacey Moss
#7 What the family should wear
If you are having family members incorporated into the
photos, make sure that you coordinate with your photographer about what
preferences they have in regards to clothing. It is always important that
family members have outfits that compliment each other. Avoid clothing with
logos or busy patterns that will be distracting.
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#8-After the Session
Your photographer will usually let you know when to expect
your images. Make sure you confirm with them so you know ahead of time what to
expect in regards to editing time and delivery of images.
#9 Enjoy!
Make sure that you enjoy the process of photographing your
newborn! It is such a small moment in time that passes by so quickly. The
photos that you receive will allow you to cherish your sweet new bundle of joy
throughout their life.
From Stacey: I have a couch in my studio so you can relax, watch and enjoy. I also have stools you can bring over to the posing station and sit right behind me or on the floor next to me depending on how interactive you want to be.
From Stacey: I have a couch in my studio so you can relax, watch and enjoy. I also have stools you can bring over to the posing station and sit right behind me or on the floor next to me depending on how interactive you want to be.
Photo Credit: Stacey Moss
#10 Further Questions
If you have any other questions about the process of
photographing newborns make sure to contact your photographer that you have
booked. Photographers are always willing to answer any questions and make sure
that you feel comfortable!
From Stacey:
For nearly all of my Newborn Clients I send them this link: http://www.photographybystaceymoss.com/newborn-session-information-and-tips.html
It covers my expectations and theirs and gives them details on how to prepare for a smooth session. Though, even the best mom that follows ALL of the items can still have a rough newborn session. That's one of the joys of newborn sessions. They are all different, and the baby is usually in charge.
