How to Prepare for Your Newborn Session

When you booked your newborn photography session, you were probably full of excitement and anticipation. But, once baby arrives, thoughts of beautiful photos retreat to the back burner, replaced with the day-to-day demands of feedings and diaper changes.
Preparation is key to a successful newborn session, so don’t let those crazy first weeks get the best of you! Instead, print these quick tips and stick them on the fridge to make sure you’re ready for your baby’s moment in the spotlight when the time comes.

1. Let your photographer know when your baby is born
Call or email your newborn photographer as soon as possible after the birth (ideally within 48 hours). This will leave sufficient time to change the session date if necessary.

2. Be careful with feedings for 24 hours before the session

If you’re using formula, don’t switch to a new type or brand in the 24 hours before your session, unless you have a medical reason to do so.

If you’re nursing, try to avoid these foods to minimize fussiness and gas:

• Chocolate
• Spices (cinnamon, garlic, curry, chili pepper)
• Citrus fruits and their juices (oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruit, etc)
• Strawberries
• Kiwis
• Pineapples
• “Gassy" veggies (onion, cabbage, garlic, cauliflower, broccoli, cucumbers, and peppers)
• Fruits with a laxative effect, such as cherries and prunes

3. Make sure baby has a full tummy before the session
A full stomach will make baby sleepy, helping your photographer take beautiful newborn photos. For best results, plan a big feeding just before you leave for the studio, and make sure baby eats his or her fill. Don’t forget to burp your baby before heading out!

4. Do not put baby powder or oil on baby’s skin
Keep your baby’s skin au naturel ahead of the session. Powders and oils change baby’s natural skin color, which can make your photos look off. Also, oil makes baby’s skin extremely slippery, making it difficult for the photographer to pose him or her.

5. Dress your baby in an easy-to-take-off outfit
When you arrive, your photographer will likely be the one to remove your little one from the carseat, change him/her, and start posing and shooting right away. A one-piece outfit with a zipper or buttons will make this process much easier.

Do not put socks on your baby - they leave marks on the skin that will be visible in photos. Also, avoid onesies - they are difficult to take off without waking the baby up.

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Newborn Photo Sessions: What Every Parent Should Do Before Baby is Born

You’ve done your research, found a newborn photographer you love, and officially booked your newborn session. Congratulations - but don’t kick back and relax just yet! Preparing thoroughly as your due date approaches will ensure a smooth experience at your session and gorgeous photos of your new arrival. Here are four important steps to take ahead of your baby’s birth.

1. Sign a contract

Any professional newborn photographer will ask you to sign a contract to make your agreement official. Contracts should spell out all key details, such as the timing of payments, what’s included in the photographer’s services, and refund/cancellation policies. Read the contract carefully and ask questions about anything that seems unclear.

2. Meet with your photographer in person


It’s important for you to be comfortable with your newborn photographer: the average newborn session is about 3 hours long, and the photographer will be holding, changing, and posing your baby throughout. If at all possible, meet with your chosen photographer face-to-face before your baby is born.

In addition to helping you get to know your photographer, the appointment will give you an opportunity to get familiar with the studio, props, and outfits. This first meeting is the perfect time to share your ideas for the session, discuss favorite colors and styles, and make any special requests.




3. Schedule an approximate date for your session

Unless you’re planning a scheduled C-section, it's difficult to predict your baby's arrival. However, it still helps to have an approximate session date in mind. Knowing your preferred date ahead of time helps your photographer accommodate your needs. Ideally, you should schedule your newborn session while your baby is younger than 2 weeks old.

Your photographer should check in with you when your session date is approaching, giving you an opportunity to reschedule if baby arrives later. If you don’t hear from her, don’t be afraid to reach out - you want to be sure your photographer is available when you need her.




4. Ask about a pre-session questionnaire

Many newborn photographers send clients a pre-session questionnaire, which helps ensure you’
re 100% satisfied with your experience. If your photographer doesn’t have a formal questionnaire, see whether you can email her your ideas and requests. Even if you’ve discussed ideas in person or over the phone, it’s best to have them in writing.

Don’t forget to let your photographer know if you’ll be bringing something to the shoot (e.g. a special family heirloom or a favorite outfit.) And don’t be shy about sharing your ideas - a professional will always happy to try something new. It's your baby and you should love every single photo!

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Trusted vendors for newborn outfits and props

Trusted vendors. Props and outfits for newborn photography sessions. Newborn Massachusetts Polina Kuklina Photography

Newborn sessions are rather elaborate and usually last about 3 hours. As a rule, I provide all the props and outfits. Parents are welcome to bring few specific items (say, grandma's hand-knitted hat), but the majority of outfits and layers will still be provided by me. On the other hand, the babies are just a few days old and as a parent, you do not want to unknowingly expose your new baby to harmful chemicals and bacteria. I do everything possible to keep my studio clean and also use perfume-free and dye-free detergent for the laundry after each session.

I purchase my props only from trusted high-end newborn boutique vendors like Ababa Baby Props. They use new materials and non-toxic dyes. This concerns pretty much everything: felted layers, fluff, flokati rugs, headbands, and outfits. If you have any questions, I will be excited to chat with you about my favorite vendors!

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