Top 10 Tips for To Help You Prepare for Your Perfect Session
Preparing for your newborn photo session can make a huge difference in how your photos turn out. Below are my top 10 tips to ensure your session is smooth, fun, and results in beautiful images you’ll cherish forever.
- Book Your Session Early
- Newborn photos are best taken within the first 7-14 days of life. Babies are more likely to be sleepy and cooperative during this time, perfect for those adorable, curled-up poses. Trust me when I say, I wish I had enough time in my schedule to take every single newborn session that comes my way. Sadly, I can only take a limited number of newborn sessions per month, and do tend to book about two months in advance. Contact your Grand Rapids newborn photographer (hey that me! Honeywild Photography!) early to secure your spot!
2. Feed Your Baby Before the Session
- A full baby is a happy baby! Make sure your little one is well-fed before the session starts. Traveling less than an hour away? Try and fill baby’s belly before heading to the studio. Have a little bit more travel before you arrive? Feeding baby, or topping them off upon arrival is definitely recommended. No worries about a hangry baby around here! We can pause your session for a snack as many times as your baby needs. A full belly means a sleepy and content baby, which makes it easier to capture those peaceful, dreamy shots.
- Create a Cozy Environment
- I keep the room warm and cozy to help your baby stay comfortable and sleepy. I use space heaters and raise the thermostat to keep my studio room between 75 and 80 degrees. It may sound super hot to you or me, but for a baby that has been in a cozy 100 degree womb for the last 9 months or so, it feels cozy! The warmth helps baby relax, and fall into that deep sleep that allows us to capture those dreamy newborn images we all love!
- Dress Your Baby in Simple Outfits
- My newborn sessions are all inclusive. What does that mean? That means I provide all backdrops, coordinating wraps, props, and accessories for your baby in every color you can imagine. When dressing your baby before your session, I suggest a simple one piece outfit that is easy to remove, without having to go over baby’s head.
- Have Your Props Ready
- Want to include a sentimental item in your session? I love including items from home that add meaning to your session. Prepare any props you’d like to use the night before, so they are ready and easy to grab on your way to your session. Popular items include soft blankets, cute hats, and small toys. Ensure everything is clean and safe for your baby. Your Grand Rapids newborn photographer might also have a variety of props to choose from, so make sure to include any hobbies, careers, or interests you have so we can make a create a custom session unique to your family.
- Stay Patient and Flexible
- Those early newborn days be unpredictable. And I although I do have a few baby whispering techniques, and tools to help us through a newborn session, I do work at your baby’s pace. Be prepared to take breaks for feeding, changing, and soothing. Patience is key to capturing the perfect shot. I tell my parents to block off 3-4 hours for their session.
- Choose the Right Photographer
- Select a Grand Rapids photographer experienced in newborn photography. Choose a newborn photographer who has extensive training in the art of newborn photography, and most importantly in how to handle your baby safely. Be sure to check out reviews and portfolios to find the Grand Rapids newborn photographer with the right skills, safety measure, and who shoots/edits in your preferred style. (Stay tuned for another blog post coming soon on different shooting/editing styles 😉)
- Plan for Family and Sibling Photos
- If you want to include family or sibling photos, coordinate outfits I’ll help you plan the perfect outfits, as well as pose you to make sure its as stress free as possible! Make sure you discuss your upcoming session with young siblings. Tell them how much fun they are going to have! I promise to make this portion of your session as quick and painless as possible!
- Keep It Simple
- My style is very simple with the main focus on your new baby. Minimal props, simple, natural textures, and an earthy color palate are ways your Grand Rapids newborn photographer will highlight your baby’s natural beauty without too much fuss.
- Relax and Enjoy the Moment
- And the number one tip for ensuring your newborn session goes as smoothly as possible? Relax! Take a deep breath. Your baby can sense your stress, so try to relax and enjoy the session. Trust your Grand Rapids newborn photographer and focus on the joy of the moment. These early days are fleeting, and capturing them should be a fun and memorable experience. We’re going to create beautiful images.
By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared for a successful and enjoyable newborn photo session with your Grand Rapids newborn photographer. These moments are precious, and with a little preparation, you’ll have beautiful photos to cherish for a lifetime.
