Welcoming a new baby is a momentous occasion, and capturing those early days with a professional newborn photoshoot is a beautiful way to preserve these fleeting moments. However, preparing for your session can feel a bit overwhelming. Here are the top 10 tips to help ensure a smooth and successful newborn photoshoot, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: your precious little one.

1. Schedule Early

Newborns are typically photographed within the first 1-3 weeks of life when they are the sleepiest and most likely to curl up in those adorable poses. Schedule your session while you’re still pregnant, preferably during the second or third trimester. This way, you can secure your photographer’s availability during that critical time.

2. Choose the Right Time of Day

When booking your session, early mornings are often ideal, as babies tend to be drowsy after keeping you up all night. Most photographers photograph newborns 9am-12pm at the latest for the best results.

3. Dress Comfortably

You’ll want to be comfortable during the shoot, as the photographer tries to keep the space warm for baby to relax. Loose, soft clothing will help you feel at ease, especially if you’re breastfeeding or need to soothe your baby during the session.

4. Prepare the Space

If your session will take place at home, tidy up the areas where photos will be taken. Soft, natural light is essential, so choose a room with plenty of windows. Clear clutter and consider simple props or blankets that can add warmth and softness to the images.

5. Gather Essentials

Make a checklist of essential items to have on hand during the shoot. Include:

• Extra diapers and wipes
• Pacifiers or soothers (if applicable)
• Blanket for swaddling baby during any feedings.
• Gas drops/ Gripe water to sooth baby’s belly if they are gassy.

6. Plan for Feeding

A feed right before the shoot can help your baby feel content and drowsy. However, be prepared for the possibility of feedings during the shoot itself. Bring along a bottle of pumped milk or formula if you’re bottle-feeding, or be ready to breastfeed as needed to soothe your baby.

7. Discuss Props and Outfits

Communicate with your photographer about any specific props, colors, or outfits you want to use. Many photographers have beautiful accessories, hats, or blankets they can provide, but if you have particular items that are meaningful to you (like a family heirloom), discuss bringing those along with your photographer ahead of time so they can plan to incorporate those items.

8. Try To Keep Baby Awake Before The Session

Try to stimulate baby before the session and keep them awake for a longer period so they are ready to eat and pass out. Give them a bath to stimulate them, talk to them, show them toys, etc. If you can keep baby awake for a while, then you can give them a good feeding and have them ready to sleep hard for the photographer to be able to pose them.

9. Ignore Your Typical Feeding Schedule

Be prepared for the unexpected! Babies can be unpredictable, and things may not always go as planned. If your baby is fussy, it’s okay to take breaks, change poses, or even give extra feedings to soothe baby. Most baby’s burn more calories during a photo session because they are being moved around a lot and might not be getting solid untouched sleep. Be prepared for extra feedings to keep baby milk drunk and relaxed to capture all of the poses and different set ups you are looking to achieve. A good photographer will understand and work with you to capture the best images possible based on baby’s cooperation level.

10. Relax and Enjoy the Moment

This is a special time for you and your family. Remember that the goal of your photoshoot is to capture the bond between you and your new baby. Try to relax, enjoy the moment, and embrace the experience.

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Capturing your newborn’s early moments can be an unforgettable experience. By following these tips and preparing in advance, you’ll help ensure a smooth and enjoyable photoshoot. Cherish this fleeting time, and trust your photographer to create wonderful memories that you will treasure for years to come!

Ready to book your Newborn Session? Reach out to Jenni Nikki Photography today, your Atlanta based professional newborn photographer.