Tips to Help you get Prepared for your Newborn’s First Photoshoot

Newborn photography is becoming a hot trend, and it’s not because of some new-age postmodern fad, but rather because capturing such moments truly do pluck at one’s heartstrings and preserves precious memories of a time that will go by way too fast. While the experience may be worth it once you have the pictures in hand, the time leading up to the photoshoot can be stressful as there’s a lot to prepare. 

We’ve put together these tips to help parents-to-be prepare for their newborn’s photoshoot and relieve some of the stress they may be feeling. Hopefully, these tips will ensure a smooth experience and keep your stress levels down. At the end of the day, what’s most important is that your baby’s pictures come out good! 

SCHEDULE THE PHOTOSHOOT AT THE RIGHT TIME

Having a baby is not all fairytales and rainbows! You’ve got a new responsibility in your life which requires time, effort, and money as well. In all this, one of the more enjoyable experiences in the newborn photoshoot, provided you schedule it at the right time. Be sure to schedule the shoot to fall on a date five to ten days after your baby is born. At this age, babies are easier to pose in all those adorable positions you see in such photosets. 

So, if you want the shoot to fall in those dates, then you’ll need to call your photographer during the third trimester. Because such photoshoots are trending, renowned photographers tend to get booked fast. To be on the safe side, get in touch with the photographer at the 32-week stage of your pregnancy. This will give you enough time to decide on themes, outfits, props and all the other details. If you need to order anything online, you’ll also have enough time to ensure that your items are delivered before the photoshoot date.

DECIDE ON YOUR THEME BEFOREHAND

Your newborn baby will only be “newborn” once and these pictures are going to last you forever, so be sure to pick out a few themes way in advance and think about what style of pictures you want. These will also have a bearing on the photographer you want to hire as not all photographers will be able to capture your vision. 

The right photographer gives rise to the best chemistry, which is very important for such exercises. If you don’t have that chemistry with your photographer it’ll show in the quality of the pictures, which obviously won’t come out as great if your photographer doesn’t understand your vision.  

BE HONEST WITH YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER 

This is one of the most vital steps of the entire process. You need to have open communication with your photographer and clearly tell them what it is you’re looking for. Explain, in detail, your desired style, theme, colors, and props that you want to be incorporated into the photoshoot. This will give both parties a clear picture of what the possibilities are and will lead to fewer disappointments. 

This way, the photographer will let you know the elements that they can deliver on and not keep you hanging with false hope. They’ll tell you what props can, or cannot, be incorporated, what themes are available, and what colors will look best according to the chosen style. 

PACK THE ESSENTIALS 

You’re going to want to pack all your baby’s essentials because the photoshoot is going to be a prolonged affair and can last up to four hours or more. When it comes to newborn babies, that is an insanely long time and you need to have all the food, clothes, and equipment you would need if you took your baby anywhere else.  

For a photoshoot, we would recommend that you at least carry your diaper bag, along with all the accompanying items including diapers, baby wipes, baby powder, etc. In addition, carry a few pairs of clothes, other than the ones you want your baby to wear in for the photoshoot. Carry your baby’s bottles and all nursing related equipment, pacifiers, and blankets. Also, don’t forget to bring the props you want to be incorporated into the shoot.

FEED YOUR BABY AT THE RIGHT TIME

You’re going to be spending a decent amount of time, even during the shoot, feeding and comforting your newborn child. You’ll also need to feed your baby 30 minutes before the shoot. Babies need to be properly fed at all times or they tend to get fussy and even downright difficult if not fed properly. 

Your baby might even eat a bit more than usual during the shoot because a bit of energy would be spent when you’re posing your baby to get the right picture. However, there’s no need to stress, especially if you come prepared. Reputable studios even have dedicated spaces where you can feed your child in peace.

Remember, a well-fed baby is a happy baby. And if your baby is happy, it’ll be easier to take good pictures.  

PICK OUT YOUR OUTFITS FOR THE SHOOT AS WELL 

While your baby should be dressed in a simple onesie with a button/zipper to ensure that changing isn’t too complicated and that the baby is comfortable, you should also take the same approach for yourself. Dress to impress, but also keep comfort in mind as the process is going to take a good amount of time, and you as parents will not exactly be relaxed, to begin with on the fifth day after the delivery. Whatever clothes you want to feature in the pictures, you should bring separately. Studios have changing rooms where you can pop in and change in minutes.

FINALLY, RELAX!

Remember, if you follow the above steps, then you’re properly prepared for the exercise and you don’t need to stress about it anymore. Professional photographers know what they’re doing and have the experience to ensure that the experience is comfortable for the baby and the parents. 

If you’re looking for a professional photographer for your newborn baby’s photoshoot, then get in touch with Laura Jane Studios.