Reasons To Book a Newborn Photoshoot and How To Prepare For Your Session
If you’ve found your way to this page then you are either thinking about booking a newborn shoot or you want to know how to get the best from a shoot you already have planned. So lets start at the very beginning…
What is a Newborn Photoshoot?
A newborn photoshoot is a photoshoot that concentrates on taking photographs of your newborn baby. So far, so obvious, right? There are, however, a number of different styles to consider. Many newborn photoshoots will be based in the studio - this will provide a consistent look and feel to the images as they will benefit from carefully curated lighting, backdrops and props.
Other shoots will be more stylised and offer a specific theme. These shoots are also studio-based and were made famous by Anne Geddes many years ago. They still prove to be a popular option with many parents.
I, however, offer a much more documentary approach. I come to your home in order to photograph your baby and your family in familiar surroundings. I feel that this approach provides you with much more meaningful memories and also offers a relaxed and comfortable environment where you can have your photographs taken (no need to pack everything and the kitchen sink in order to head out to a studio).
What are the Benefits of A Newborn Photoshoot?
Essentially, I view newborn photoshoots as a specific type of family photoshoot. However, where family photoshoots could theoretically take place at any point in the year, you really want to schedule in a newborn photoshoot within baby’s first 14 days (or within the first month at the very least).
The main benefit of a newborn photoshoot is to capture them while they are still tiny. The days are going to whizz by so fast and before you know it, a whole year will have passed. A newborn photoshoot allows you to capture those precious early moments, spend some quality time just you and your family and document it for posterity. Almost every client comments about how big their baby has gotten when they receive their photographs back (and my turnaround time is normally less than 2 weeks!).
When and How do we make a booking?
My advice is to get in touch as soon as you know you would like to commission a shoot. I ask for baby’s due date so that I can pencil an approximate date into my diary and then you can get in touch once baby has arrived to confirm a specific day and time.
By booking for your due date it also means that I know when to give you a little prod if I haven’t heard from you because you’ve gotten swept up by everything once baby arrives.
What should we do to prepare for the photoshoot?
Photoshoots take place at your home so that things are kept as relaxed as possible. There are, however, a few things that you might want to consider in the days running up to the shoot.
Think About Your Outfits
I am sure you will have an idea of one or two cute outfits for baby to wear during the photoshoot but don’t forget to also think about your own outfits. I will always encourage you and your partner (and any other children) to have some photos with baby so make sure you are wearing an outfit you are happy to be photographed in. Relaxed but classic attire is best as busy patterns and current fashions will only serve to date the photograph.
Locations & Props
Gather together any toys, blankets etc… that you would like included in the photoshoot. This could be anything from a special blanket knitted by Auntie Doris or your own teddy bear from when you were a baby. Anything that has sentimental value or is of particular significance will ensure your photos are totally unique and personal.
I work with natural light so the best spaces for photos are places that are relatively bright e.g. in front of large windows, by patio doors etc… It would be useful if you can clear some space in places you feel would work well (I’ll do a quick recce when I arrive so don’t worry too much about moving lots of furniture around!). Double beds are also a lovely backdrop as they make baby look tiny! If you are happy for a big bed to be used then make sure it is made up with your favourite sheets.
Finally, if you think you would like some photos of baby stripped down to their nappy, please make sure the at least one room is warm enough to allow us to do this.
What happens on the day?
If you’re able to ensure that baby has been fed before I arrive then hopefully we can get going with the shoot as soon I get to you. Please don’t worry if this isn’t possible - it’s one of the reasons I allow up to 2 hours for newborn shoots. We will work around baby so if they need a little extra time to get settled then need 5 nappy changes, 4 feeds and 10 changes of clothes then so be it - the main thing is to keep the entire shoot relaxed and comfortable for you and baby.
When I arrive it often works best if you can show me the spaces you are hoping to utilise for your shoot. I’ll bring a few props with me but if you have particular items that you want to use, please let me know as soon as I arrive - I’ll do my best to incorporate these into the shoot where appropriate.
As mentioned previously, I always encourage you to get involved in the photos too - we can do individual portraits with baby, both parents with baby and even get siblings (and pets!) involved.
I strive to do at least three different set-ups to provide you with a variety of images. There may be time for more but this will depend on how often we need to pause to cater for baby’s needs.
After the shoot you will receive a link within 7-14 days to a password-protected online gallery to view the images. You can then choose your favourites (the number of which depends on the package you have chosen).
If you’re interested in finding out more or would like to discuss booking your own newborn shoot then please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
