older newborn prep guide
what to expect
for babies 3 weeks - 3 months old
I approach this age similar to how I photograph fresh newborns who come into the studio. I will swaddle baby for some photos if baby will allow it. I also have some simple wardrobe pieces we can use.
If baby happens to fall asleep during our short session, I will capture sleeping photos, but more often baby is alert and awake with good eye contact so we will photograph their adorable expressions and developing personality.
things to remember
1 day before the session
If you are nursing or giving baby pumped breastmilk, please avoid eating any foods that could make baby gassy. A quick search on the internet will give you a list of what these could be.
Please send me baby’s birth stats:
First name
Date of birth
Estimated current weight
If you added on parent and/or sibling packages to your session, put together the outfits you’ll be wearing for your photos with baby. It’s one less thing you’ll need to do in the morning! If you change your mind and wish to add parent/sibling images (or decide not to do them), that's ok! But please let me know the day before your session so I can ensure the studio is set up properly.
Please don't stress if your newborn has flakey/peeling skin. This is a true newborn feature that I personally love and will go out of my way to capture. If it's in a distracting place, like baby's face, feel free to moisturize it or put some breastmilk on it, but don't exfoliate it or pile on lots of lotion.
If your baby is starting to get acne, don't be too concerned - this is common. For the most part, I'm able to edit acne out in my editing process. Here are some tips for dealing with acne
- Gently wash baby's skin with warm water. Avoid scrubbing their skin. Then, pat dry.
- Don't use lotions or oils because it may clog their pores.
- Clean up milk residue or spit-up from baby's skin promptly.
day of the session
Things to Do:
Things to Pack:
What to Expect:
The heat will be up in the studio (80+ degrees) to keep baby comfy so be sure to dress yourself in light clothing or bring something light to change into after your images with baby are finished.
I always start with parent shots first, so if one spouse needs to head out after these are done in the first 1/2 hour or so, that’s totally fine.
what to wear
If you are getting parent and/or sibling images, I'm here to offer help on what to wear. You can bring your own outfits or borrow items from my studio wardrobe. Your photo session is an investment and what you wear has a huge impact on the overall look and feel of your images. Selecting outfits postpartum can feel difficult because nothing fits. Sometimes moms lean toward the standard black leggings because they stretch and are comfy, but let's elevate your photos and choose a long flowy dress that's just as comfy, more forgiving and will look absolutely stunning.
BORROW FROM MY STUDIO WARDROBE!
I have a full studio wardrobe for mamas you are welcome to use. The dresses and tops are all very loose and forgiving and work lovely for postpartum. Many of the items are creams and whites with lace. Bring a nude bra if you have one and wear a white or cream cami for underneath. You can try on some pieces when you arrive. My client closet is carefully curated with dresses that will photograph perfectly. VIEW MY STUDIO WARDROBE HERE
For Dads - I have a few polos in the studio wardrobe for Dads (size M-2XL) to use in case you are stuck. Don't run out to the mall just for this. ;)
For kids - I am starting to build a collection of kids clothes 2T-5T for older siblings to borrow from. It's best to bring something just in case, but you are welcome to peek at my studio closet for toddlers when you arrive.
tips for bringing your own clothing
If you wish to have your photos taken with your baby and you are wondering what to wear for the parent shots - neutrals work best. Whites, creams, greys or even muted/light pastels work too. Try to avoid graphics and logos if you can.
For Dads - a simple polo or button down shirt in white, cream or grey works best.
Check out my What to Wear for Newborn Photos Pinterest board for lots of visual inspiration.
prep for siblings
With older siblings I request that Dad or another caregiver takes them out after their images are done in the first 1/2 hour or so. As you can imagine older siblings will get restless and this ensures the studio stays a safe and quiet environment for your newborn baby.
final notes
Please feel free to ask any questions you may have. It is my pleasure to photograph your family and I look forward to the fun we will have!
Thanks for taking the time to prepare for your session.
I look forward to our time together. I will be in touch a couple days before our session with any last minute details.
illness
On the day of your session if you or your baby are not well, please give me a call or email. I will do the same.
