Newborn Session Prep Guide
Newborn sessions take place when baby is 5-14 days old, at my studio which is perfectly prepared for your itty bitty. I keep the room at a toasty 85 degrees so baby is comfortable being photographed with minimal clothes.
You have access to my entire collection of newborn tiebacks, wraps and props which have been carefully selected based on the comments from your questionnaire and the lighting is just right.
Below you will find details on how to prepare for your newborn session.
FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS
I can’t stress that enough. Newborn photography is an investment. A very good one, I might add. In order to give yourself the BEST possible chance for amazing photos, you have to prepare your baby. Not only will this decrease the amount of time for your session, but it will also make sure your baby is easy to pose. A happy sleepy baby makes for a smooth session. Here are instructions on how to make that happen:
FOR BABY:
Before the shoot, please feed baby 2-3 hours prior, and plan on feeding him/her before you leave for your session. Please do not let him/her sleep beforehand, instead try giving him a bath, let him kick with only a diaper, tickle his toes, and even let him fuss for a little bit (no pacifiers) for the few hours beforehand. Try your hardest to keep baby up for at least 1.5 hrs before leaving your house. Following these instructions will ensure those squishy, sleepy newborn pictures!
My recommendation: Undress baby and let kick and play naked for a bit. Then give a nice long bath. Why? Because baby won’t sleep in the tub. Stretch it out as long as you can. Next lotion baby up! Take your time and stretch this out as well. Not only will it help with keeping baby awake, but it will also moisturize his/her skin so it is nice and soft for photos. Dress baby in a zip up onesie. Have a nice long feeding. Put baby in car seat and head over. The car ride will put baby in a deep sleep so that I can start posing when you arrive. Do not take baby out of the car seat. I will do that in a way to keep baby asleep.
I CAN’T STRESS THAT IT’S SOOOOO IMPORTANT TO DO YOUR BEST TO KEEP BABY AWAKE.
Many parents say “baby has been sleeping all morning, but trust me, he sleeps SO good this time of day!” only to have baby wake up, since they will be unclothed and un-swaddled. I know it’s hard because you need to get yourself ready too. You are more than welcome to come in your pjs and get ready while I photograph baby.
Please bring baby in a button or zippered shirt instead of something that has to go over their head. Something loose fitting. Baby should be asleep by the time you arrive so I want it as easy as possible to undress them so they don’t wake up. You are more than welcome to nurse/feed at the session. Remember you will make my studio your home at this time!
Sessions last between 2-3 hours, sometimes longer if baby is a light sleeper, or is hungry! The easiest way to ensure a sleepy baby is the willingness to nurse/bottlefeed off and on. The area babies photos will be taken will be about 80 degrees so he/she will be nice and comfortable during their session.
If you can, have a pacifier. These are life savers during a newborn session. Even if you haven’t used one, just for the 2 hours that I am posing him/her usually really helps. However, if you really prefer that we don’t use one, that’s fine as well! Just keep in mind it could add time to your session.
FOR MOM & DAD
Mom & Dad you are a big part of the show. Photographing the connection between you and your baby is one of my all-time favorite things.
Dads: I ask that you wear a solid colored shirt something casual but yet dressy
Moms: Keep the color neutral and design simple. Be sure that you have no nail polish, or at least no chipped nail polish as your hands will make their way into the images. Also, rest assured, I aim to photograph using flattering angles and light to bring out the natural beauty in your family.
The colors I think work best for family photos are nude/tan, cream and blush, or solids/blacks. Remember, the focus is the new baby and we don’t want bright colors and busy prints that may be distracting.
FOR SIBLINGS:
Including older brother/sister (s) in your newborn’s portraits might seem overwhelming but you will be glad you did. With Siblings I suggest having dad or a family member bring them at the beginning of the session and when family and their portion is done they can leave. Newborn sessions get to be long especially for little ones (and dads sometimes too)
It is my hope that you enjoy the photo session and feel both comfortable and at home. Feel free to relax (or nap!) while your baby is being photographed. I am truly honored to be able to document this incredible time in your lives and look forward to getting to know you and your sweet baby!
My Studio Address:
42197 290th st
Roseau, MN
56751
More detailed directions:
When you're on Highway 11 coming from Roseau turn south onto County Road 28 this'll be directly across from Geroys building center well it used to be now it's just a cream and orange building....Drive 2 miles then turn left onto County Road 124 Then drive 1 1/4 miles I will be the second driveway on the left side there's a big green and beige shop my studio is to the right If you have any questions at all, please feel free to call me at (218) 452 0604