How to prepare for a lifestyle newborn photo session?
So, you have an upcoming lifestyle newborn session?
How should I prepare my home?
Know that you do NOT need a show home for lifestyle newborn photography. All we really need is one window with some good light. I do advise to declutter as much as you can from the rooms we maybe photographing in - I.e the master bedroom,living area and nursery. Throw it all in the bathroom until I've left. I can help with this if necessary! Expect me to be standing on your bed/sofa/anything to get the photo (I'll ask first of course) I may ask to move furniture too! Only if really needed for great light :)
Get any special soft toys/muslins/blankets ready to be used in photos.
Get the house nice and warm! Warm enough that your baby will be comfortable undressed. We will go with the flow! Just know that it's always carnage and that's OK! I'd be worried if it wasn't. I have a planned image list, but I'm happy to go with the flow to capture the special moments!
How to prepare baby?
Try and feed baby before I arrive. I know life is hectic in those early days and this isn't always possible. Don't worry. you can feed/change/snuggle whatever during the session - there's no rush and all these things make for great lifestyle images too!
What should we wear?
Everyone - Avoid Logos/crazy patterns/anything distracting.
Creams/browns/neutrals photograph the best. Have spare outfits..just in case (because we all know babies like to spit up on us)
Mummies - Wear something you feel comfortable yet fabulous in! Dresses always photograph well, but if that's not you, don't worry - just as long as you feel beautiful!
Dads - Keep it simple too. Dress for comfort, a plain t-shirt/shirt with jeans works great!
Baby - babies are perfect as they are. Keep it simple. A plain white vest/babygrow is timeless.
Siblings - Now this one is age dependant, however try to avoid logos and patterns if you can. If they insist on wearing that new fancy dress costume - well...It's all part of your story of who they are today, in this moment, you will always look back and smile.
What about siblings?
Please let them know before that I'm coming. For little ones, just tell them Hannah is coming over to play...let's make it fun. I won't ask them to say cheese or force them into anything, I'll just let them be themselves.
I will always pay them plenty of attention (it can be tough being an older sibling when a new baby comes along.)
I can get a feel for when they're done/need a break or a snack. Normally if we let them go they come back as they want to see what’s going on anyway.
How old should our baby be for the sesssion?
I’d suggest booking your session in your little ones first 4 weeks! They grow and change so quickly in that first month of life. That being said, a lifestyle newborn session can be done anywhere in the first 3 months…and older babies connect with their parents more with eye contact and smiles :)
You've got this!! If you have any further questions drop me a message…I’m more than happy to chat.