LIFESTYLE NEWBORN PREP GUIDE

This newborn prep guide provides you with all the session information you will need to help your session run smoothly. Please make sure to read over all the important details. 

HOW TO PREPARE
Following these instructions as best as you can will greatly improve the chance of a relaxed and wonderful session with your baby being sleepy and content.

  • Declutter - I typically use 2-3 rooms. I suggest the nursery, master bedroom, and/or living room depending on which has the best natural light. Try to declutter as much as you can, even if you need to toss a few things into a another room. I will take a mix of family, parent and baby photos for a really beautiful variety of images!

  • Added Guests - I ask that only those being photographed during our session be present for our time together. I find this helps to avoid distractions for everyone involved and allows me to connect with those being photographed.

  • Home Temperature - To help keep baby cozy and sleepy, please bump the heat up 30 minutes before your session time. For warmer seasons, please turn the air conditioner off an hour prior to your session time.

  • Awake Time - Keep baby awake 1-2 hours prior to your session. I recommend giving them a bath, play with them, interact with them in any way to keep them awake during this time. This allows them to be nice and sleepy for their session.

  • Feeding - Feed baby right before I arrive, following their awake time. This will help ensure they are sleepy and content once I arrive.

  • Onesie - Please have baby in a white onesie prior to my arrival. Simple is best for baby’s outfit. 

  • Pacifier - Between photos and setups, a pacifier can work wonders to soothe baby. Even if your baby doesn't normally use a pacifier it can be helpful for these few short hours if needed.

  • Breastfeeding- It is best to avoid the following foods 48 hours prior to your session, acidic foods and drinks, caffeine, gassy vegetables and spicy foods. This will help with baby’s digestion so they do not have an upset stomach during session. 

COVID-19 SAFETY MEASURES:

  • Arrival - Upon my arrival I will remove my shoes outside of your home.  As much as this pains me to not hug or hand shake lets please avoid those all together for the safety of everyone.  

  • Masks - I will be wearing a mask for the entire session.  

  • Hand-Washing - I will make sure to sanitize upon on my arrive and throughout the session. I will avoid touching parents and siblings as much as possible. 

  • Outside Props -I will bring along a few wraps to swaddle baby. Please know that all studio items and props are laundered and sanitized prior to your arrival.

WHAT TO EXPECT:

  • Arrival - When I arrive I will view your home for the best possible spots to photograph. Prior to touching baby I will make sure to sanitize my hands. 

  • Posing - Baby will be posed in a more relaxed form to start. This will allow baby to lead the posing. Half way through I will wrap baby for a different style. Please note there are no props used for lifestyle sessions. 

  • Photo Time - I will begin by taking family, parent and any sibling photos of baby in a white onesie. Please dress them in a white onesie so when I arrive we can start right away. After that portion I'll begin taking photos of your baby by themselves. All poses are natural but I do have a set of poses and a flow I use for every session so we get a nice variety of looks for your gallery.

  • Break - Your baby may or may not need to feed during the session - which is absolutely fine. If your baby needs to feed we will simply take a break for them to eat.

  • Your Gallery - You will receive your online gallery in approximately two weeks. During that time I will share sneak peeks to social media and take my time choosing the best photos for your gallery.

WHAT TO WEAR:

Here are a few wardrobe tips to help you look stylish. Please be advised that parents and siblings only need one outfit each. 

  • Primp - Take a little extra time to primp your hair and make-up for newborn photos. It will boost your confidence and you'll look fresh-faced even though you might feel tired. Please contact me if you need hair/makeup artist referrals! 

  • Timeless - My newborn photos are timeless - so simple, neutral/solid colors and fabrics are recommended. Solid, soft/lighter colors really photograph better. Fitted tees, polos or button-ups with jeans for the guys, a maxi dresses or tank tops, blouses and cardigans (with jeans or leggings) for ladies really allow your baby to be the center focus of family portraits. I ask families to go barefoot in home so no need to stress over what shoes to wear.

  • Groom - Groom your little fresh-faced newborn if it’s needed. Sometimes their nails, skin and hair can get out of control. Trim their nails, keep them moisturized, and keep a baby brush on hand to fix that crazy baby hair. 

  • Newborn Clothing - Please dress them in a white onesie, this can be short or long sleeve. I will keep things simple with soft wraps, small headbands to compliment baby.

  • Discuss - I love helping families coordinate outfits to get the most timeless look in your photos and would be happy to help you select the best possible outfit for each family member. Please email me if you need any assistance!

If you have any additional questions please reach out prior to your session. I am happy to help in any way I can to make this experience memorable for you and your family.