There are several things you should–and shouldn’t–do to prepare yourself and your newborn for a photo session.
DOs
1. Try your best to prevent your newborn from napping before the session. Obviously, I want what is best for you and your family, but having a sleepy baby for the photoshoot is always easiest.
2. Consider washing or sponge-cleaning your infant’s hair the morning before the session. This will help their hair look fluffy rather than oily.
3. Bring your baby’s pacifier! Even if they aren’t good at taking on yet, they can be useful when trying to settle the young one into a pose.
3. Be prepared to feed your baby just before the shoot as well as during. Feeding a newborn is another great way to soothe them and help them sleep. Feeding just before the session begins is a great way to start off on the right foot, and sometimes feeding is needed in the middle of the session to keep the baby soothed and sleepy.
4. Feel free to bring any wraps, headbands, or outfits! I have a couple options I will bring with me, but I am always open to your input and preferences!
5. Their precious, tiny hand in yours is always a moment to treasure. Even if you do not want to be in the photos yourself, you may consider giving yourself a simply manicure incase we decide to take photos of your hands cupping their feet, head, hands, etc.
6. If you have any cherished items like a special blanket or toy, bring it with you!
7. Additionally, if you have a shhh-er or a white noise machine that works great for your little one, feel free to bring that as well.
DON’Ts
1. Don’t wait until the last minute to schedule! Newborn photos are best when taken between 5-14 days old. This is when they will be the most sleepy and easiest to photograph.
2. You should not lotion your newborn. The presence of dry skin may make you nervous, but trust me, dry skin is easier to edit out after the photos have been taken than trying to edit out the shine from the lotion.
3. In the time leading up to your sessions, avoid having your little one wear mittens or socks. These can leave elastic markings on their skin. And while this can be edited out, it is preferable to avoid it.
Pfahler Photography 