Of all my photo session, newborn photography sessions are my very favorite. They are the sessions that make me so thankful to be a photographer. When pregnant mommas call me to block out some time for their teeny baby I can feel an internal smile, all the way down to my toes!
I love being a newborn photographer. A large part of my job isn’t just taking great baby pics, it is to help prep you, especially at such a vulnerable, exciting (and sleepless!) time. Here are some questions and answers you might have about your upcoming newborn photo session:
When should I schedule my newborn photo session?
The best time to schedule newborn photos is while you are pregnant! I will block out a tentative time for your baby pictures. That way we are sure to reserve your space but I try to work in as much flexibility as possible, taking into account that your baby may arrive a few weeks earlier or later than your due date.
Once your baby is in your arms, contact me to get your actual appointment on the books. If you’ve already had your baby and haven’t pre-booked your session, please contact me right away to make sure we can get you and baby on my calendar ASAP!
How old should my baby be when he or she is photographed?
My favorite time to for newborn photography is when they are 7 – 10 days old. This is the magic window of time when they will still fold up into the tiny darling poses that we all love so much. We will photograph them as early as 5 days and up to 4 weeks. Not all newborn poses are possible once baby is past 3-4 weeks old. After that time, I will suggest a different type of photography for older babies.
Where will my photography session happen?
We will photograph you baby at your home or my studio in Palos Verdes Estates. Your home is the safest and most comfortable place for your baby. In-home photography is the least disruptive environment for your family.
I will bring provide we will need for your session. I bring baskets, wraps, props and more. If you chose an in-home session, don’t feel worried if you don’t have lots of natural light. I can make almost any lighting and space work for your photos. I use almost all natural lighting (as newborn babies don’t always love flash photography), so we will plan your session around the best lighting in your home.
Your home does not not need to be picture perfect. The focus of your photo shoot is your baby and that is what will show in all of your photos. I send a very basic checklist to help you prepare yourself and your home for your shoot. It will only take 20-30 minutes for you to be ready.
How long will the session last?
Newborn photography sessions last 2-3 hours. Sometimes we finish a bit early, but I like to plan for enough time to make sure we get your baby calm, sleeping, and snug as a bug.
What if my baby cries during the entire session?
I am very good at calming babies. I have been snuggling and calming little ones since I was a little girl myself. I have yet to come across a baby that wouldn’t cooperate. A fussy baby doesn’t bother me in the slightest. We will work through those fussy moments and then get back to work. Your baby will be celebrated and enjoyed every moment of his or her photo shoot – tears, poopy diapers and all!
Do I (mom) have to be in the photographs?
This can feel a little tricky. You might not be looking and feeling like your normal self. You might feel like you don’t want to have your photograph taken right now. That’s completely normal. I usually ask moms to pose for at least one or two photographs with their new baby. When your child is older you will both be SO GLAD that you have captured your first moments together. I am skilled at posing and some strategic editing (if you’d like), to make sure you are looking your best with very little effort. Talk to me about any concerns you have and I bet we can work around them.
Can I include big siblings?
I have a blog post where I talk all about that over here.
Ready to schedule?
Contact me and we’ll get the planning started!
Have more questions? Give me a call or send me an email! I’m happy to discuss any of the questions or concerns that you have.