Miller
Photography
Newborn Session Guide
preparation tips, session timeline guidance, prop & clothing recommendations, and more!
I'm excited to work with you and capture the precious moments of your newborn. I understand that newborn photography is a significant investment and I'm honored that you've chosen me to create these lasting memories for you.
Even if you're planning a simple session, there are likely still many details to consider.
With years of experience in newborn photography, I often get asked the same questions. To help make the process easier, I've put together a guide that covers everything from timelines to prop and clothing recommendations, and even tips for dealing with unexpected situations.
Welcome
A Note about this guide
Thank you again for choosing to work with me and please let me know if there's anything I can do to assist you in the preparation process for your newborn photography session.
Michelle
You may be wondering what you need to do with your space before I arrive. It's totally normal to have a lot on your mind, especially with a new baby in the house. But don't worry, I've got you covered.
Before the big day, take a moment to declutter and tidy up the areas where you would like to be photographed. Don't worry about mopping or dusting, just focus on removing any distractions. Open your curtains and blinds to let in as much natural light as possible. I'll be sure to adjust as needed, but it's always helpful to start with a clean slate! The most popular rooms for newborn photography are the living room, master bedroom, and nursery.
Make sure to set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature, don't worry about the baby getting cold, I'll make sure they stay warm and cozy. I have found that playing white noise during the session can help keep the baby relaxed, but if you have any objections to this, just let me know. I can bring my own sound machine, or if you have one you prefer to use, that works too!
And remember, the goal here is to make the room look its best for the photographs, but also for you to feel comfortable and at ease, so don't hesitate to let me know if you need any help or have any questions.
Preparing Your space
What to Wear
When it comes to clothing, I recommend sticking to light neutral colors for a timeless and fresh look. If you do choose to incorporate colors or patterns, make sure they complement each other and don't clash. For example, if mom is wearing a floral dress, dad should wear a solid. If baby is wearing a floral swaddle, mom and dad should wear solids.
For the parents, moms typically look gorgeous in flowy maxi dresses or light, loose button up tops. Dads look nice in button ups or solid tees. Avoid bulky clothing, graphic tees, tight pants, sparkles, or crazy patterns as they can be distracting and take away from the focus of the family and the newborn. Above all, make sure you feel comfortable and like yourself in the clothing you choose. These photos are all about you and your new family.
For baby, I will bring some swaddle and bow/hat options, but if you have any that you particularly like, please have them laid out and ready to go. I typically start the session by swaddling baby in a white photography swaddle. Then we can add cute swaddles on top of that so we can minimize waking and upsetting baby. After we get lots of swaddle pictures and family shots, I will unwrap baby to get some sweet details of their hands and feet, and hopefully some adorable stretch and yawn photos! After that, as long as baby is still happy we can do a cute outfit/gown/etc if there is one that you have picked out. If you have any special stuffed animals/letterboards/wooden signs, please have those easily accessible as well. Lastly, if there are any photos that you have seen on my website/on Pinterest/in your imagination that you’d like to bring to life, please send them to me so I can make your dreams come true!
Pets
Fur babies are a beloved part of the family and I understand the importance of including them in your newborn photography session. I am happy to include them in the photographs as long as they are cooperative and well-behaved. To ensure that your pet is comfortable and happy during the session, I recommend having treats on hand.
I typically like to take a family photo with the pet at the beginning of the session, and then ask that they be put in another room for the remainder of the session. This helps to minimize distractions and ensures that we can focus on capturing those sweet moments with your new baby.
If you have any concerns about your pet's behavior or if you have any special requests for how you'd like them to be included in the photos, please let me know. We want to make sure that everyone, including your furry family members, feel comfortable and at ease during the session.
Feeding
When it comes to preparing for your photoshoot, one of the most important things to consider is your baby's feeding schedule. To ensure that your baby is happy and sleepy during the session, it's best to feed them prior to my arrival. This will help set us up for success and make the session more efficient.
Of course, you are welcome to take breaks throughout the session for feeding and diaper changes as needed. Your baby's comfort and well-being is our top priority, so don't hesitate to take the time you need to ensure that your baby is fed and happy. However, having your baby well-fed prior to the session will help me to capture those sweet and peaceful moments of your new baby.
Please let me know if you have any special requests or concerns regarding your baby's feeding schedule, we will be happy to work with you and make sure that your baby is comfortable throughout the session.
Ensuring Safety
When it comes to newborn photography, safety is my top priority. Newborns are tiny and vulnerable and I want to ensure that they are protected at all times. As a professional photographer, I always wear a mask during sessions and make sure to wash my hands as soon as I arrive, to ensure that everyone is safe during the session.
I also take care to ensure that the props and materials used during the session are clean and safe. All of my swaddles are washed between sessions with unscented, pure detergent. I want to make sure that your baby is comfortable and safe during the session.
If you have any special needs or concerns regarding safety, please let me know. I am here to make sure that your baby is protected and that you feel comfortable and at ease during the session.