Tuesday Ten | What to expect during a Newborn Session

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

Photo Credit: Misty Hooper

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

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.

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.

Photo Credit: Stacey Moss

#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.

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.