Welcoming a precious newborn into your family is an unforgettable moment filled with joy and wonder. Capturing these early days through professional newborn photos is a special way to preserve those memories forever. Here are my tips on how to prepare for a newborn photo session so you have a stress-free and enjoyable time!

Preparing for the Best Experience During a Newborn Photo Session

Table of Contents:

• Book Your Session in Advance
• How to Prepare Your Baby
• What Should I Pack for a Newborn Photoshoot
• Be Flexible and Patient
• Live in the Moment and Join in the Photos

Book Your Session in Advance:

Once you’ve found the perfect newborn photographer that you’d like to help capture this exciting time, you’ll want to reach out to them instantly. Newborn photographers often have busy schedules, so booking your session well before your due date is essential. I always recommend scheduling the session within the first fourteen days of your baby’s life. 

How to Prepare Your Baby:

To ensure a successful photo shoot, preparing your baby beforehand is important. You’ll want to feed your newborn right before the session starts so they have a full belly. It’s best when the baby is asleep during photos, so try to keep them awake about an hour or so before photos start. Keep your sweet babe comfortable in loose-fitting clothing to avoid marks on their delicate skin. 

What Should I Pack for a Newborn Photoshoot?

One less thing you have to worry about when you have the newborn photographer come to your home is packing up every little item you need for your newborn. Packing is unnecessary because you’ve got everything you need in your house. It alleviates stress when a family doesn’t have to travel to a studio to complete these photos. 

Every newborn photographer is different, so if you go to a professional studio, you’ll need a packing list. I recommend bringing plenty of clean diapers, wipes, anything you need to feed them, and several different changes of clothes for not only the baby but you as well!

Be Flexible and Patient:

Being flexible and patient is one of my most significant advice for parents when they book a newborn session. I always recommend doing an in-home lifestyle session for many reasons, and this is one of them! Babies have their schedules and moods; if you’re in your own home, we can take breaks if needed. Whether for feeding, changing, or comforting, by being in the comfort of your home, you’ll have everything you need to make your sweet bundle of joy happy. I will always follow the lead of you as well as your sweet babe, and while you take a minute, I can capture the details of the nursery. 

Live in the Moment and Join in the Photos:

Newborn sessions are about capturing your baby’s adorable poses and documenting the love and joy within your family. By joining in the photos, you can express your genuine emotions and get photos that reflect the bond and connection you share with your little one. I know you might be exhausted and not want to get dolled up, but it is worth it. I truly enjoy capturing a family in their environment. If you have any pets you want to include, I say go for it! If you’re rocking the baby while your partner reads a book, those are some precious candid moments. Don’t worry, you’ll be glad you took a few pictures at the end!

If you’re in the charming city of Charleston, South Carolina, and looking for a newborn photographer, you’re in luck! I love capturing this cherished moment for growing families, as you will always look back on these photos for generations to come. You can contact me here, and I will get back to you with more information about my Charleston newborn photography packages. I hope that this guide on how to prepare for a newborn photo session will make you feel confident once your baby is born!