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 try to 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.
day of the session
Right before you leave, give baby a bath and then a good full feed and burp baby. A full belly makes for a sleepy baby!
Dress baby in a plain white onesie as their bottom layer (if you have one) and something that doesn't have to go over their head, such as a zipper sleeper - it makes for an easier transition once you arrive! The heat will be up in the studio to keep baby warm and comfortable.
Bring a pacifier. Even if you are not giving baby one, bring it just in case. It helps to soothe them in between set-ups
Bring extra diapers in case baby goes through a few during the session.
The session will last about 2 hours. Bring food for baby – baby will need to eat 1-2 times during the session. Bring any necessary nursing supplies or bottles.
how to prepare
classic, clean and simple
I have quite a few simple rompers, outfits and diaper covers for babies 1-3 months old. These outfits are classic, neutral and photograph well. I'll also use a few swaddle blankets which keeps them happy and calm. If you’d like to bring your own special outfit or diaper cover for baby that’s perfectly fine, but not necessary. Don't feel like you need to purchase any outfits for our photo session. Outfits with wording or images are very cute but are sometimes hard to read since fabric folds. So simple is best!
If baby has a lovie, blankie or special item you would like documented as part of their baby stage feel free to bring it along. Lastly, please remove baby's socks before leaving. I like to see those baby toes and avoid sock lines which can last up to an hour.
if you wish to bring an outfit for baby, Check out my What to Wear for baby Photos Pinterest board for lots of visual inspiration.
prep for parents
If you added-on Parent Images to your session and you are wondering what to wear for your portraits - neutrals work best. Whites, creams, greys. Avoid graphics and logos and the colour black. I have wardrobe pieces for moms and you are welcome to look when you arrive. Wear nude/neutral coloured undergarments as many of the tops are lacy or sheer.
I also have a few simple polos for Dads to use.
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. When it comes to “What to Wear” with families, not all the pieces need to match exactly, but they should all coordinate. Keeping everyone in neutrals (whites, creams, greys) is an easy and classic way to do this!
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.
