We are experts at documenting your baby’s first days and capturing this magical time in heirloom artwork. Follow our seven essential tips to ensure you and your baby have a great newborn photography session!
1. PLAN YOUR NEWBORN SESSION WITH A PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER AHEAD OF TIME
Most photographers will only do newborn sessions when infants are between 5 to 14 days old when the baby is sleepy, small, and flexible for cute photos. Please try to book during that time to ensure the best results. However, even if you have passed that time, don’t worry; I can deliver beautiful photos of your child regardless! Our newborn sessions are customized for babies up until eight months.
For a newborn photoshoot, I invite you to reserve your spot in my schedule as soon as possible so that I can secure a spot for you. Please book an appointment about a week after your due date. I ask my clients to call me after the baby is born to confirm or adjust the appointment if needed.
2. IMAGINE YOUR DREAM NEWBORN PHOTOSHOOT IN BROOKLYN AND MANHATTAN
3. KEEP YOUR BABY ENGAGED, BUT CALM BEFORE YOUR NEWBORN PROFESSIONAL PHOTO SESSION
Transportation tends to soothe the baby to sleep. We will try to keep the baby asleep by moving them very gently. Please dress them in large, easy-to-remove clothes so we don’t upset the baby while changing outfits.
It would be helpful if you avoid scheduling vaccinations and/or other potential causes of stress before coming to the shoot.
With 15 years of experience shooting newborns and babies, I have developed techniques to soothe your little one to sleep and work with and around possible tears.
4. SKIN RELIEF FOR YOUR PROFESSIONAL NEWBORN PHOTOSHOOT
Before the session, change your baby’s diaper into a loose, clean one. A loose diaper is best to avoid creating red diaper marks on their tiny waist and delicate skin.
5. FEED YOUR BABY 20-30 MINUTES BEFORE YOUR NEWBORN PHOTO SESSION
Please bring your feeding and changing kit. I also strongly recommend bringing bottled milk and a pacifier to the photo shoot. If breastfeeding, it would be helpful to have some pumped milk ready in a bottle to feed and soothe the baby’s onset without moving them. It is usual for a baby to get fussy at some point during the photoshoot. We will change, feed and cuddle the baby until they fall asleep.
6. WHAT TO WEAR FOR YOUR FAMILY PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY
Our staff has also compiled a list of professional hair and makeup artists for your convenience. You can see our stylists here.
If you are more inclined towards minimal and natural styling, you’re very welcome to come as you are. Feel free to review my blog post, “10 Makeup Tips from an NYC Professional Photographer.”
7. HAND SHOTS DURING YOUR FAMILY PORTRAIT PHOTOSHOOT
8. KEEP YOUR BABY HAPPY DURING YOUR PROFESSIONAL NEWBORN PHOTOSHOOT
We ask that you supervise the well-being of your child during the shoot. If the baby is fussy, you may help hold a prop or offer a pacifier between shots. The Studio has a changing station, white noise machine, electric blanket, and countless props and outfits to create a comforting experience and unique photos of your little one.
If you need anything at any point during the shoot, please let us know. We have coffee and tea, strong wifi access, and comfortable seating. Sometimes Dad and siblings go on a walk and join for the first ten or last part of the newborn session for the family photos.
9. ASK YOUR PROFESSIONAL NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHER WHAT ARTISTIC RETOUCHING IS
10. ORNATE YOUR HOME WITH HEIRLOOM ARTWORK OF YOUR NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHY
Also, I found a study that surveyed 15,591 families about the value of printed photos vs. digital images. They found that prints help families connect more than digital images. Prints create more confident kids, improving their imagination, self-esteem, and identity. Prints remind parents that they’re doing a good job, leading to more engaged and capable parents. Prints help partners feel more connected. How inspiring!
After the shoot, you will receive a private online proofing gallery. You can order your prints, enlargements, canvases, holiday cards, and more from your online Gallery. Please book your appointment early to ensure we have a space for you. I am very much looking forward to our photoshoot. See you on set!
11. ON-SITE NEWBORN PHOTOSHOOTS
Read more about your Newborn Experience online. I am looking forward to meeting your family and sharing this sweet moment that you will remember for life with heirloom artwork!