How to prepare for a newborn photoshoot

The first and most valuable tip I can give any new parent is when to have the newborn photoshoot done. And newborn photographer will tell you this needs to be done as soon as possible. There are a few reasons for this . The first is that as your baby gets older they start to move around more and get more restless . This makes it almost impossible to wrap them and keep the wrap neat for the photos. Its also way more difficult to get them to relax and sleep in a different environment because they are so much more aware of their surroundings and of your moods and feelings.

We know this can be a little overwhelming especially if you are a first time parent. But this is very important if you want these types of photos. The ideal time is normally 7 to 10 days after birth and no later.

This is always surprising to most parents. But the minimum amount of time I tell parent s to allow for is two hours for the photoshoot. The reason this is surprising is because the amount of images you get from a newborn photoshoot is less than from a normal photoshoot. Newborn photography is very specialised and requires a lot of set up and preparation. Each shot and pose needs to be carefully thought out and approached.

The photographer also needs to work out what works best for each baby. For instance some might not like lying on their stomachs or being completely naked. Its important that parents dont expect specific shots and poses from this type of photoshoot, as this is completely dependent on the baby and what they will allow you to do. Its also important not to expect too many poses , outfits and props. As each one takes time and requires the baby to be changed etc in between this can be quite difficult.

It is a good idea to have baby just in a nappy and wrapped warmly in a blanket when you arrive for the photoshoot as this minimizes the amount of times they need to be changed and allows a wrap to be put on as soon as possible without disturbing them too much. With a wrap you can also change simple things like a hat and change the photo completely without having to change the baby.

Preparing properly for the photoshoot will also minimize the time and make your baby less likely to be overly disturbed by the photoshoot. This includes timing the photoshoot for a time that they would normally want to sleep, making sure they are fed, burped and nappy changed before they arrive for the photoshoot, and if you are having the photoshoot at home make sure the room is almost uncomfortably warm for you . This is VERY important. Babies cannot regulate their temperature and will feel the cold much sooner than you will . The warmer the room the more likely they are to stay sleepy and peaceful.

Also remember to prepare yourself for the photoshoot – you will want to have some photos with your baby , so think of a colour scheme or outfit that will work for you and your partner and any siblings you want to include in the shoot.

Its also a good idea to prepare yourself mentally. Although these photos look peaceful and quiet in the final product there is plenty of time during the photo session where your baby may be crying and generally not impressed with being changed and shifted. You need to be aware that this is part of the process, although we try to minimize it as much as possible. The more anxious you are the more upset your baby is likely to get so this can also cause a snowball effect and wont yield any great results.

This is something else that new parents need to prepare for. Even though there are fewer photos given at the end of the photoshoot , the cost of newborn photography is much higher than a normal photoshoot because more time is spent on the actual photoshoot and preparing for it. In addition there is some specialised equipment required to do the photoshoot , not to mention the wraps and outfits required to make them look all cute and adorable. All of these things should be included in the shoot price. If you do go to a photographer that seems cheaper just make sure of these things beforehand . It can end up costing you quite a bit more if you need to go and get these items yourself.

For your reference here is a link to my newborn photography packages . Navigate to lifestyle photography and click on Baby photography pricing to see more. Remember you can also combine your maternity with your newborn photoshoot and save.