The joy of having a newborn is incomparable, and you want to cherish every minute with them before they grow up. They may be small now, but they will grow up quickly. That’s why a newborn photo shoot can be what you need to make a memory of their charming qualities.
However, this photoshoot may not be as simple if you are unprepared. Here’s what you’ll need to do to ensure a pleasant photoshoot:
1. Manage Your Expectations
You can set your expectations by asking the photographer or the studio about the number of final images they’ll give you. Generally, adults can receive up to 100 shots in portrait galleries. However, depending on the studio, you may only receive 20-30 images for a newborn gallery.
It’s also best to know if they can give you digital files. Most studios within your location, such as the Baby Photographer, may provide these copies. Moreover, you should also ask how many digital copies they will provide, including the raw photos.
Based on the number of images they’ll give, inquire why this is so. This is usually due to the time it takes to complete the session.
Newborns are unlike adults that can easily pose. In addition, you may need to feed, calm, or change your baby’s diapers at times. These could lengthen the session and reduce the number of photographs captured.
It would be best if you also asked them about the editing process. Will it take more time than usual? Probably yes, because they may use professional editing software to ensure that the newborn’s images will turn out better than the actual. This will also show how much time the photographer will invest in producing the final product.
2. Schedule The Session
When planning the photography session, you need to know if you want your child asleep or awake. Generally, babies who are eight days old can be more challenging to photograph since they start stretching out.
You may find it hard to take pictures of them in sleeping poses. That’s why the earlier the session is, the better.
Conversely, you may want to take photos when your little one is after their four-week mark. During these times, the photographer can capture them awake and playful.
3. Prioritize Safety
While posing is essential to creating beautiful photographs, you should also focus on your baby’s safety. Thus, make sure to evaluate the studio or the venue of the photography session before bringing your baby there.
Furthermore, a photographer who prioritizes safety knows that natural poses are the safest. Natural poses have fewer risks when your baby moves or twitches spontaneously.
Besides, the photographer can also take shots of your baby’s adorable lips, tiny toes and feet, and cute little nose.
Depending on the theme, you can also decide whether to swaddle them with blankets or have them photographed naked. However, ensure that the room temperature is warm enough to keep your baby comfortable. If they get cold, they can get fussy.
To be sure, you can always check for goosebumps on their skin.
You should also keep your baby from being overheated. This may happen if the baby is wrapped. Look for sweating on the back of their necks, clammy skin, or a red face.
During the photo session, you must not leave your little one alone on the beanbag or prop. You never know when the baby could fall or move when startled. Prevent such by staying within arm’s length.
If they’re using props, make sure that they place weights on the bottom of the props. Doing so can prevent the props from tipping over once the baby’s weight is added.
4. Keep Your Baby’s Tummy Full Before The Session
To avoid disrupting the photo session, feed your little one 20-30 minutes before the session. When they’re hungry, they’re more likely to open their mouths and shake their heads back and forth.
Or worse, they can cry frantically.
Moreover, a milk-drunk infant looks good in photos. That’s why you should feed and burp them before the photo session.
When they’re full, parents and the photographer will feel relaxed because the baby will have a better sleep and less crying, thus a smooth photoshoot can happen.
If the photo session lasts more than an hour, you should also feed your baby. Take time to refuel them by giving them their milk to keep them happy. If you use a formula, have an extra bottle with you on hand.
Conclusion
A newborn photo shoot can be challenging, but you can make it enjoyable if you’re well-prepared. What’s important is to enjoy the process while keeping your baby safe.
That said, don’t just bring your little one to the photo studio without doing the suggested tips mentioned above.
