Everything You Need to Know About a Newborn Session
Every parent knows that kids grow up so fast. That's why having photos of your children at every stage of their life is so important, especially when they're newborns. Those images can help you remember years later just how small your little ones were.
As you're getting ready to welcome a new addition to your family, take time to consider booking a newborn session to capture this amazing moment in your life. Not sure what a newborn photo shoot is like? To help you out, we've created this list of common questions many first-time parents have.
How old should my little one be for the photo session?
The best age for a newborn session is under two weeks. At that age, babies still spend a majority of their time sleeping and are easier to pose in those curled up positions everyone loves! When you're scheduling your session, keep in mind that your newborn will grow quickly and will look completely different at one month than they did at birth. As they grow, they'll begin moving more and will be much more comfortable with posing, as well as less likely to remain asleep during the photo shoot.
When should I book my session?
The earlier you can book your newborn session, the better! Session times fill up fast, and since you only have a limited window of time in which to get the photos taken before baby gets too big, you want to be sure that your photographer is available.
What if my baby arrives earlier than expected?
Every newborn photographer knows that babies arrive when they're ready. With that in mind, your photographer will hold time around your scheduled session to make sure you and your little one get in for your photos.
What will you and your baby wear?
For the family portraits I like to keep it monochromatic and match the tones to the background, so dark clothes for the black background and very pale colors for the light background. This way your baby and your expressions are the focus of these images rather than what you are wearing. I will send you details as to what styles of clothing will work best. This will be the same for both parents as well as for any children that will be joining you.
Most newborn photography involves nude portraits of your little one-the better to capture those tiny fingers and toes and their precious soft skin! Dress your baby in clothes that are easy to take off and put back on and that are loose enough it won't leave marks on their skin.
The studio will be nice and warm when you arrive, warm enough so that your baby will feel comfortable when naked. Unfortunately for us adults that means it will be pretty toasty. I suggest wearing layers so that you can adjust your clothing so that you will be comfortable during the 3-4 hours that you will be at the studio.
How long does a newborn session last?
Typically, a newborn photo shoot lasts several hours. If that sounds long, have no fear-you won't be in front of the camera the whole time. A majority of that time will be spent feeding your newborn and keeping them calm for photos. Some babies are happy and content and sleep the entire time but those are few and far between. Most of the time babies need to be fed and comforted and, of course, have their diaper changed.
What should I bring to my session?
This is one of the most common questions we hear, and that's because it's so important! You'll want to bring your whole diaper bag, of course. That means pacifiers, extra diapers and wipes, and extra formula and bottles, if you formula-feed.
You should dress lightly for the studio since it will be warm so that your baby will be comfortable naked. You'll also want to bring a change of clothes for yourself because posing in photos with a naked baby can lead to messiness.
I will have some snacks and water at the studio but you might like to bring along some of your favorites to keep you going.
Keep calm.
I was tempted to add 'and carry on' but that is actually the best mindset to be in. Babies pick up on nervous energy so if you're nervous or worried, they will likely be unsettled as well. So take a deep breath and relax. If you are running 5 minutes late, no problem. If your partner forgot to bring the shirt you had laid out, it is not the end of the world. Did your baby poo all over me? Stuff happens, and I'm used to it. So take it easy, enjoy these few hours when someone else is taking an interest in your beautiful baby and relax for a bit.
When will I see my images?
A couple of weeks after your portrait session, you will receive a link to an online gallery to view your images. This will be where you will be choosing the images that you wish to purchase. There is no hard sell, the final choice of package, images or wall art is completely up to you. You only purchase the images that you love.
Albums
Albums are a natural choice for newborns, saving all the images in a beautiful book that can be shared with family and friends now, become a favorite picture book once your child is older and eventually an heirloom to be passed down to future generations. The album I create are hand made in Italy by craftsmen (women too, I've been to the factory). That also means that each album can be customized for you with your choice of colors and materials, even creating something that no one else has.
Portfolio Boxes
European portfolio boxes are available as an add on for collections of 10 or more images. You will have a few beautiful options to choose from so that you can store or display your archival prints for generations to come. The boxes are available in beautiful walnut veneers, Italian leather and vegan options.
You will see samples of these boxes in the studio during your session. Orders take approximately 3 weeks.
Enlargements and Framed Prints
During our pre-consultation and our session, we will probably have talked about different ways you might like to display your images. If your Manhattan home is too small to display a large selection of images, the portfolio box or the 9 image composite (on the right) might be perfect for you. If you have more wall space we can definitely discuss larger prints with frames or groups of images to display in your home or country house. Custom orders take about 3 weeks and will delivered to an address of your choosing. In home wall hanging of your framed artwork and canvases is available.
