You’ve got a lot on your plate right now, Mama. Even for veteran moms of multiple kiddos, that newborn stage can be tricky. That’s why I want to make your newborn session as easy as possible! Here are a few quick tips to help you enjoy your newborn session – the way it should be!
1. What to wear
Bring your baby in loose fitting clothes that are easy to get off (such as zip up or button up pajamas that don’t have to go over their head). The less I make baby upset in the very beginning, the more likely they are to feel cozy and calm earlier in your session! If you are utilizing the client closet at the studio for yourself, wear whatever is most comfortable! If you are planning on wearing your own clothes from home, message me with any styling questions! I’m happy to help!
2. Before you arrive
Make sure to feed and have baby in a clean diaper before we get started. With studio sessions, I suggest feeding your baby in the parking lot from your car before coming inside. If you need a spot to change baby, you are welcome to do that in the studio while I finish getting things ready for you all! There is a diaper pail by the restrooms for your convenience!
3. Sleepy baby, safer baby
Try to keep your baby awake for at least 30-45 minutes before your session. Ideally, a little longer if possible (maybe an hour) but no longer than 90 minutes so we don’t push baby into being overtired. This tip may seem silly, but the whole point is just to get your baby to a spot where they will want to nap during the session. It makes posing easier, but more importantly, it makes posing safer! That’s why I will work hard throughout your session to keep them asleep – it’s really a safety element!
4. Big siblings in the studio
If you are bringing older siblings to the studio with you, please make sure at least one adult in your family is keeping an eye on them throughout the entirety of your session. While there aren’t any glaring dangers in the studio, there are still hazards with equipment, props, etc. and I want to make sure everyone is safe!
Newborn sessions can feel like eternity to a toddler, so it’s a good idea to bring extra snacks, toys, and maybe even a screen for them to watch a favorite show or movie on during the parts of your session that are focused on the baby. Newborn photos are often your first outing as an expanded family, so I also suggest bringing a new special “big brother” or “big sister” toy they can play with after participating in sibling and family poses. The more we can spin the narrative for your older kiddos that this session is about them (and not the new baby) the more excited and willing to participate they often are. Try getting them excited for your session with something like “are you excited to take a big brother photo today and show everyone how good you are with your new baby?”
And last, just try to relax throughout the morning. I know getting littles out the door makes that an “easier said than done” kind of statement, but our kids really feed off our energy and mannerisms, so the more relaxed and calm you are, the more your baby (and kiddos) especially will be!
Please let me know if you have any questions – even if you think of it in the middle of the night tonight while you’re up with them. I’m happy to help and look forward to capturing your sweet babe in these early days
See you and that precious babe soon! -Miss Becky
