Preparation Is Key!
Before heading out the door to your newborn session, there are a few things to consider beforehand that will help your experience go more smoothly! Here are a few easy tips about what to wear, what to bring with you, and how to prepare.
What should I bring to my session?
Pacifier
Even though your baby might not be great about taking a pacifier, it’s still a good idea to throw one (or two!) into your bag to bring with you. A pacifier can be SUPER helpful in getting baby settled into some of those beanbag poses. And if you’re nervous about using a pacifier while you’re breastfeeding, there’s no need to worry, mama! Giving baby a pacifier for this very short amount of time during your session won’t ruin his or her latch. 🙂
Extra Formula
If you’re not breastfeeding, be sure to bring extra formula in addition what your baby normally eats in a 3-hour period. Babies tend to want to eat more when during their portrait sessions, so be prepared for an extra feed or two while you’re here!
Sentimental Items
I can’t always guarantee that we will have time to photograph extra props or outfits during our session. But if you have an item, piece of clothing, or blanket that has special meaning to you, please bring it along! I once photographed a baby wearing her mother’s wedding headpiece, and the resulting image was stunning!
What should we wear?
Mom
The first place to start when planning your family’s wardrobe, is choosing your outfit. Then, build everyone else’s outfits to compliment yours. If you are choosing to wear something from your own closet, neutral is always best! We want to keep the focus on you and your baby, so avoid bold patterns and bright/dark colors. Solid white, solid light colors, or dainty floral patterns work great. And maxi or midi dresses that flow, move, and stretch are wonderful options!
Here are some of my favorite online stores that I use when shopping for the studio wardrobe:
Also, be sure to wear nude/skin-colored undergarments (or bring them with you if you are using the studio wardrobe) so they don’t show through your outfit in the photos.
Dad
The same rule of neutrals also applies to dad’s outfit. Khaki pants or nice jeans paired with a white or solid neutral top are excellent options. I also have a great selection of mens shirts available in my studio wardrobe that will compliment all of your family’s outfit choices!
Siblings
Again, neutral colors and patterns are key to creating a cohesive look for your newborn portraits! I have a wide variety of adorable children’s outfits in the studio wardrobe, ranging in size from 3 months to 8 years. Choose colors and textures that work with your own outfit…classic dresses are wonderful for little girls, and little rompers are adorable for baby boys! For older boys, think something similar to dad’s outfit: khaki pants/nice jeans, and a solid neutral top.
A few last tips…
Hair and Nails
On the morning of your session, make sure your hair and face are clean and dry (ie, no makeup or wet hair) so the hair/makeup artist can get started right away. Also, check that your nails are neat, clean, and free from old or chipped polish. I love using parent’s hands in closeups of baby’s feet and hands, because it gives a beautiful perspective of just how small they are!
Be sure to eat!
Newborn sessions can last 2-3 hours, so be sure to eat before you leave for your session, especially if you are breastfeeding. I have a few things on-hand at the studio but snacks and water are always a good idea, for both adults and kids/toddlers.
I can’t wait to see you at your session!
I hope this article was super helpful in preparing you and your family for your upcoming newborn session! And one last tip?? Print out this list so you remember everything on the morning of the session! Exhaustion and brain fog are REAL when you have a newborn, but you got this, mama!
See you soon!!
xo,
Allie
Don’t have a your newborn session scheduled yet? Contact me now to get on my schedule before spots fill up!
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