Newborn photos are on the list of many new parents to capture these sweet first moments in their newborn’s life. As exciting as your upcoming newborn photography session can be, babies don’t always make the best models, and things can be unpredictable. Being prepared and knowing what to expect will help ensure you have a successful newborn photoshoot. Here is everything you need to know in this handy newborn session prep guide.

What to Bring for Your Newborn Photography Session

I will send you a guide of what to bring to help prepare and avoid confusion for the day of your session. The following list are items I require you to bring to your newborn’s session:

• Snacks and water for yourself
• An extra change of clothes for yourself
• At least 5 receiving blankets (recommend)
• Extra bottles and formula if you are formula feeding
• Diapers and wipes (diapers, wipes)
• Gas drops
• Pacifier

How to Prepare:

Preparing for your newborn photography session takes some well-thought-out planning. Here are some of the most common tips:

• Try to schedule within the first 14 days after the birth of your baby. Scheduling ahead of time will make sure you lock in the optimal time for your photography session.
• At least 45 minutes before on the day of your session, try your best to keep your baby awake and alert. You can do this through stimulation and playtime.
• You will want to be sure you feed your baby as close to the appointment time as possible, about 20 to 30 minutes before.
• About 30 minutes before, while they are awake, undress and change your baby into a loose diaper and swaddle them.

What to Expect:

A newborn photo shoot can last anywhere from 1 to 3 hours. My studio is set up to keep your baby nice and comfortable. Babies tend to get cold quickly but the room is set up as a warm environment. I run a white noise machine to emulate the feeling of being in the womb. You will need to wear layers to keep from overheating, and be sure to bring refreshments.

I have set ups with props and  a workflow of poses that I will try to get through as I photograph your baby.  Because some newborns don’t like to be moved around or touched, props and poses may need to be adjusted for simpler and more comfortable poses.

Good Things to Know:

I will do everything they can to get you the best poses and photos for your baby. Sit back and relax while they work but be ready should your newborn get fussy with a pacifier, a bottle, or diapers and do your best to calm your sweet baby. I do take breaks to ensure your baby feels their best.

If you want your family as a part of your newborn photo shoot, wear white or black tops with no logos or designs. I take family photos at the end of the session to ensure baby is the least disturbed by noise or commotion.

A newborn photography session is always unpredictable but adorable. I highly advice to all my clients to follow the newborn prep guide. By being prepared can help to make sure the session runs as smoothly as possible.

Want to book your newborn photos with a Bay Area newborn photographer? Contact me, and let’s get you scheduled for a session with your sweet bundle of joy!