Newborn Session Guide
I am so excited for the opportunity to capture this important moment in your family’s life. I love photographing newborn session, and through my experience I have found a few tips, and tricks to help the newborn session go a lot smother. Most babies will put up with about 3-4 set ups/outfit changes, so it is important we discuss and plan what your priority images will be.
When should I book my session?
Newborns are unpredictable, with that in mind if you know you would like me to photograph your little one schedule me now. I will write down your due date and limit how many sessions I book during that time. If you are having a scheduled induction or C-section we can book your date ahead of time. The more time you give me, the more time I have to plan (purchase props if needed).
When is the best time to photograph newborns?
It is important to photograph newborns as young as possible. I typically like to photograph newborns between 3-7 days. Newborns are much sleepier during this time, and acne and colic increase as time goes on. If possible it is better to do newborns before newborn boys are circumcised so they are not grumpy.
My baby is in the NICU will I still be able to have a session?
Yes of course, all 4 of my kids were NICU babies and on oxygen. Your child just may need extra soothing time. Please let me know if your child ahead of time has any special needs such as oxygen. As a ER nurse and the mother of three oxygen babies I am very comfortable with babies with medical challenges. I also offer free NICU pictures
Do you have props or do I need to provide them
I have a good selection of props and I am constantly purchasing more. I can’t guarantee I own a specific prop, but we may be able to arrange something if there is enough notice. Always talk to me before purchasing something; I might already have what you are looking for. If you have something special to your family I would love if you bring it and we will incorporate it into the session.
How long will the session last?
If you follow my tips on how to prepare the baby the day of the session my sessions are on average 2-2 ½ hours, some sessions are shorter, some are longer. I huge help is to keep your baby awake for 2 hours before his/her session, this includes the car ride over if possible. Then once you get to the session I will allow you to feed the baby and this usually puts them right to sleep.
Should I bring outfits for the baby to wear?
New babies just don’t fit in clothes properly, and they often look bulky. I usually photograph newborns in their birthday suit, swaddled, or in a outfit specifically made for newborn photography. If you are wanting pictures in a special outfit I am more then happy to schedule this down the road. It should be noted I offer free mini christening/blessing outfit sessions. These sessions are normally about 15-20 min long.
What if my baby gets hungry again during the session?
We will take breaks along the way and give you time to feed the baby. If you are uncomfortable nursing outside the comforts of your own home, you can bring a bottle that we can heat up. In fact sometimes having a bottle there helps the baby because we can feed them in the setup we are shooting, and they tend to fall asleep there.
What if my baby poops or pee’s on everything?
If you baby does not poop or pee on something it is not a normal newborn session. It happens, I wash and sanitize between all session. I suggest bringing a second, or third outfit for yourself in case baby poops or pee’s on you.
Can I include my other children in the session?
Of course you can. I suggest doing the pictures with the siblings very first while they are still interested, then it is best when we are finished to have them leave the area. Have a friend or family member take them home afterwards this way you can just focus on baby, and the environment is calm and quiet.
What should you wear?
Wear something comfortable, simple, with solid colors, avoid logos. I rarely show below the waist portion so focus more on above the waist. The studio will be warm for the baby around 80 degrees. Bring a shirt to change into after so you can be comfortable. Your body is still healing from just giving birth, and the heat may just be too much for you. At my own sons newborn session between the heat and my C-section I about passed out, I wish I had brought a pair of basketball shorts and a short sleeved shirt so I could just be comfortable. I would also suggest bringing a water bottle, and some snacks just to help give you energy.
Prepare for your session
The morning of the session follow these instructions, trust me it helps
2 hours before the session make sure you feed the baby; your next feeding will be at the studio. Keep them awake till you get to my studio.
After the feeding give your baby a bath, this will help them have soft skin, and will also help keep them awake.
Place your baby in zipper or button up clothes, not a outfit that will have to be pulled over there head, and a lose fitting diaper to minimize diaper lines.
After the session
I will post a preview on Facebook; you can tag yourself in the images and share with family members, but do not remove or crop out the watermark. I will send you the dropbox link in 1-2 weeks for you to download your images.
If you have any additional questions or concerns let me know
Address: 2767 N 1225 E North Ogden UT 84414
Phone number 801-695-7258
Brittnee Fisher Photography