When to Take Newborn Photos & Tips for Baby Photoshoots
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As a mom, nothing is more rewarding than capturing the precious, fleeting moments of your newborn’s early days. Preparing for a family newborn session is essential; you want the photos to be perfect! As an Westfield newborn photographer, I’ve learned through trail and error what helps prepare parents and babies to have the best newborn session possible. Here are some tips to help you prepare for a newborn session including when to take newborn photos.
When to Take Newborn Photos
When is the best time to take newborn photos? Typically, when the baby is 8-16 days old. Scheduling a newborn photography session within the first two weeks of your baby’s life is excellent for capturing those amazing moments. Newborns tend to grow quickly and can lose that extra special newborn look after just a few weeks.
However, it’s not too late to take natural newborn-style images of babies as old as three months. I still swaddle babies and photograph them with their parents even when they are older. If you prefer to wait and give yourself time to adjust to a new baby, it’s no problem! So don’t delay – contact me today to create an unforgettable picture experience with your little one!
When to Schedule a Newborn Photographer
For babies, timing is everything! It’s best to schedule a newborn photographer in your second trimester of pregnancy. Many baby photographers take a limited number of newborns per month to allow flexibility in scheduling. As we all know, little ones will come when they want to, and photographers limit their newborns to prepare for this. Once you book a newborn session with me, I’ll reserve the month of your due date. From there, we schedule a day that is best for you and your family around ten days after your due date and adjust if necessary.
Choose the Right Outfit for a Newborn Photography Session
If you’re having your baby photographed in the studio, your photographer will provide wonderful wraps and props for them to wear during their session. You can view some of my favorite Amazon newborn clothing options here. If you have an item of sentimental value you’d like included in the session, bring it with you, and I’ll do my best to incorporate it. I have everything to style, babies, so there is no need to bring anything with you. I have timeless options available at the studio, like neutral wraps, knit rompers, and bloomers. Also, I have a client closet of dresses for moms to wear for the session. My studio wardrobe is one of the best perks of working with me and my clients favorite!
Preparing Baby for a Newborn Session
Many photographers have a list of preparation items for a photo shoot. I have a more laid-back approach to my newborn photography sessions because I know it’s not easy to just get out of the door with a newborn! However, a well-rested and fed newborn is usually more content to take photos. Bring diapers, bottles (or mama), and a pacifier.
I always say babies lead the session. If we need to take breaks for feedings or mama snuggles, that’s what we do! Additionally, if you plan on breastfeeding during the session (which I highly recommend!), let me know if you’d like it captured in photographs!
Who to Include in a Newborn Photo Shoot
Newborn photography is the perfect way to capture those once-in-a-lifetime memories of your newborn’s first few weeks. I always include parents and siblings in every newborn session. Depending on the toddler’s age, I may recommend that the dad and toddler come in a separate car, and I will photograph the whole family and siblings together first. This way, husband and kids will be done quickly, and the mom and baby can have an additional extra special time. Big sister or big brother are usually super excited to get on camera!
Relax and enjoy the newborn experience – it goes by quickly!
The newborn experience is truly a joy. You’ll be amazed at your baby’s new accomplishments every night and morning! As wondrous as these times are, they quickly pass by, and it is essential to relax and enjoy every moment. Make sure to document these beautiful family moments with newborn photography and document those sweet newborn days in your heart–you’ll have them forever!
When to Take Newborn Photos
I hope this guide has helped prepare you for your little one’s upcoming newborn session! Since I provide everything to style mom and son or daughter, all you need to do is rest and have fun! If you’re looking for a newborn photographer, contact me today to discuss your vision for a newborn photography or maternity session. My studio is located in Westfield, Indiana, and I do outdoor newborn photography as well! You may also be interested in reading about:
- Carmel Newborn Photographer – What to Wear for Newborn Photos
- Zionsville Photographer: 10 Must-Have Items for a Baby Registry
- A Guide to the Best Spas in Zionsville Indiana for Moms
- Maternity Photoshoot Indianapolis: Pros & Cons of Outdoor Sessions
Till next time!
