Working as a Newborn Photographer Gloucester, I am often asked by expectant parents – what to expect during a newborn session. I thought I would write a blog post to answer some of these questions.
The newborn stage flashes by in a blink of an eye, often whilst parents are slightly shell shocked by their new arrival! By capturing this fleeting time with some precious images parents can re-live the experience for a lifetime.
Booking the session
I always say the ideal time to book is after your 20 weeks scan, to ensure availability. Having said that, if time slips aways and before you know it baby has arrived, it is still worth giving me a call as I will always do my best to try and fit you in.
For a newborn session it is best to photograph baby within 14 days of birth. During this stage babies are most sleepy, flexible and keep their curled by stage which is ideal to mould into the those lovely sleepy poses you see. I am happy to offer newborn sessions with older babies but these sessions may include more awake shots and there is slightly less chance of creating some of the posed images. It may seem scary venturing out during the first week or two after your baby has arrived but please rest assured the results will be worth it. I aim to make to the session as relaxed and enjoyable for both baby and parents.
A quick note on safety, I have invested and trained in the art of newborn photography, safety is paramount and I know exactly how to look after your precious newborn during the session.
Preparation for the session
Here are a few tips to help you get the most from a newborn photo shoot. They are only suggestions, as being a mum myself, I realise the difficulties and how tired parents may be feeling.
If possible try to keep your baby awake for a short time before the photo shoot; a sponge bath may be helpful.
Again, if possible, try to arrange baby’s feed so that baby will need feeding on arrival at the shoot – I completely understand if this does not work out! Please bring lots of milk along with you to the session, you’ll be surprised at how much baby can drink, also if a dummy is used please bring it along.
If you have any props or sentimental items you would like included in the session please feel to bring them along and I will do my best to include them in the session. Examples from previous clients include, a rugby ball, ridings hats, blankets made or presents form family members, teddy bears owned by parents or grandparents etc.
The newborn session
I really want parents to enjoy the session so please ask and questions and use the time as some well earned down time where you can relax. I always allow unto 4 hours for a newborn session but most sessions take between 2-3 hours. this allows plenty of time for baby to be fed, changed and relax into a deep happy sleep. The entire session is led by baby so nothing is rushed to ensure baby remains happy and content at all times.
The studio will be kept at a constant 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit, please wears layers as you will get quite warm! If you would like to be included in the session I am happy to include parents. Often parents arrive saying they don’t want to be in the session but change their mind half way through. There is something magical about capturing that early bond and love of parents with their newborn. With this in mind, you may want to think about your choice of clothing. Ideally something plain and subtle in colour, no bright patterns or logos.
I am also happy to include siblings into the session. Again if possible, dress the siblings in neutral clothing without any bold prints or logos. As a newborn session lasts for 2-4 hours I recommend having a family member on friend on hand to collect the sibling after we have photographed them with the newborn. Parents can then relax and enjoy the rest of the newborn session without having to entertain siblings in the confinements of a studio setting.
Many parents arrive at the session feeling anxious about ‘what if baby wees or poops during the session’ or ‘what is baby cries’. It’s rare for me to get through a session without a baby going to the loo on something (usually me, or quite often Dad)! Please don’t be nervous about these things. It’s all part of the job and believe me I am not worried about it, I have young two children myself! As I have previously said the session is totally led by baby. If baby was and cries it is not a problem, I allow plenty of time for cuddling and settling back to sleep.
My aim of every session is to capture some beautiful images of your newborn which you can treasure for a lifetime and to make the experience as enjoyable as possible for everyone concerned. I want the parents to leave the session looking forward to viewing the images, having enjoyed a great new experience with their precious newborn.
If you would like to view my portfolio of newborn images please click here.To get in touch to discuss a newborn session lease email me at info@hannahbucklandphotography.co.uk or click here.
