12 Aug five simple tips for a successful newborn session

When we say “newborn” in the photography world, what we really mean is less than 2 weeks old.  When your baby is really new they sleep and sleep and sleep some more, which is how we get those beautiful sleepy newborn photos you see on our website.  That means calling us while you’re still pregnant so that we can be sure to get you in as soon as possible after you have your baby.

What we do is have our consultation and go over all the details of your session before your baby is due and put your due date on our calendar.  Once you have your baby, just give us a call as soon as possible afterwards and we will get you officially scheduled on our calendar.

Newborn sessions typically last about 2-3 hours and include lots of breaks for feeding and changing outfits/sets.

In order for your session to run on time and as smoothly as possible, here are five simple things you can do:

1.  Feed your baby as soon as I arrive to start setting up for your session.  It usually takes me about 15-20 minutes to unload my car and set everything up, which is a good amount of time for your baby to eat enough to become sleepy and “milk drunk.”  Sleepy newborns will let you put them into the best poses and allow us to get the best photos possible.  If you are coming to my studio for your session, you’ll want to wait until you get here to start feeding.  We don’t want any of the sleepiness to wear off before we start your session.

2.  Make sure your home is extra warm so that your baby is really comfortable nude and when we are transitioning between wraps and outfits.  I’ll also bring a space heater or heating pad to put some extra heat directly on your baby.  Between the heat and the milk, we should have no problem with your baby sleeping!

3.  Undress your baby down the their diaper at least a half an hour before I arrive.  That way they will be used to the temperature of the room and any little marks on their skin made by their clothing will start to disappear.  Also, sometimes when your baby is cozy and warm and you try to undress them, they become really fussy and start crying.  If we can prevent that from happening then it makes it so much easier to start the shoot right away.

4.  Have all of the outfits, headbands, stuffed animals, blankets, etc that you would like incorporated into the photos nearby so we don’t forget to use them.  Also have plenty of diapers, wipes and burp cloths handy for accidents.

5.  Finally, keep calm and relax as much as possible.  Babies can feel your energy and will become uneasy and fussy if they feel like you are nervous or antsy.  I have been photographing newborns for over five years and am ready for any possible situation that may arise.  I have everything I need in case your baby has an accident.  Everything I bring is cleanable and washable and I have extra blankets and props just in case.  I also build in plenty of extra time for feeding, diaper changes, fussiness, and anything else that may take time during the session.  I am never in a hurry and will never leave before I have what I need.

If you have any questions or would like to book your newborn session, you can call me at 916-837-5955 or email me at crystal@crystaljonesphoto.com.  I look forward to hearing from you!