Congratulations on the soon-to-be arrival of your newest little family member! Being a new parent can take a lot out of you. That's why I compiled this comprehensive FAQ for newborn sessions, answering all of the most commonly asked questions and hopefully making scheduling your newborn session a breeze! Don't miss out on capturing your little one's littlest moments. Book early and enjoy the last moments of pregnancy!
Planning for Your Newborn Photo Session:
How Early Should I Book My Newborn Photos?
Your newborn photo session will most likely take place between 7-14 days after your baby is born. I recommend scheduling your photo session before your baby arrives. A good rule of thumb is to book your newborn session when you're at the end of your 2nd trimester or early in your 3rd trimester. This will ensure you don't miss out on the day/time (and the photographer) that you want.
How Do I Schedule a Newborn Session?
Scheduling is easy! Simply fill out this form and I'll contact you for additional details about your vision for your newborn session. If you're not local to Colorado Springs and are considering having your session done closer to where you live, research photographers in your area and visit their website for booking information. Here are my top tips for selecting the right newborn photographer for you.
How Long Is a Newborn Photography Session?
Newborn session length is typically between 1-3 hours depending on the package you choose and how your newborn is handling the session. I allow extra time during each session for your baby to be fed, changed, and cuddled.
What Should I Do to Prepare for My Newborn’s Photos?
I typically recommend that parents bathe & feed their newborn as close to the start of the session as possible, as well as try to (safely) keep their newborn awake directly prior to the newborn session. These things, in conjunction with bringing a pacifier (even if your baby doesn't normally use one) will help to keep your little one relaxed and sleepy during their session.
Will I Be Allowed in the Studio During My Baby’s Photoshoot?
Of course! I love for my clients to be in the studio with me during their newborn session for both safety/comfort reasons and also for the fond memories you’ll have for years to come! This time is as much for you as it is for your baby.
Where Will My Newborn Photo Session Take Place?
My newborn photography sessions take place in my beautiful home photography studio based in Colorado Springs, Colorado where I have a variety of props, backdrops, outfits, wraps, headbands, and more! You can see inside the studio HERE and learn more about how I prep my studio for your newborn HERE.
Do I Need to Bring Anything to My Newborn Session?
The short answer? No, I have everything you may need! The (slightly) longer answer? Keep reading!
I have plenty of outfits and props for your baby to use during their photoshoot, but you may want to bring a bottle, pacifier, and clean diapers with you. It’s not uncommon for us to take short breaks during newborn sessions so my clients can feed, change, and soothe their little ones as needed.
You’re also welcome to bring any meaningful/sentimental props that you’d like, however please let me know in advance if you plan to bring props so I can more easily plan your newborn photos.
During the Session:
What Happens If My Baby Is Fussy During Their Session?
The first thing you should know about a newborn session with me is that I built my studio with your entire family in mind. I have over 10 years of experience photographing newborns, and I know that your little one will probably need a break (or multiple!) during their photo session.
When you visit my home studio for your newborn photos, rest assured that I have built extra time into your newborn session to account for diaper changes, snacks for baby, and cuddles. Each newborn session can last anywhere from 1-3 hours, depending on your child's needs.
I will always put your child's comfort and safety first. Having my studio in my home allows us to take our time with the session in a quiet, safe space. My goal is for your little one to be as comfortable and relaxed for their photos as possible.
Looking for some tried and true tips for helping your little one feel relaxed and sleepy for their session? Keep reading!
What if my baby won't sleep during their newborn session?
First, don't worry! It's rare that I can't encourage a newborn to sleep during their session. I'm incredibly passionate about working with newborns. I take my role to ensure that they are comfortable, relaxed, and happy during their photo session very seriously. I'm professionally trained to safely pose newborns so they feel comfortable and relaxed while we work our magic in the photography studio.
However, there are a few things you can do to encourage your baby to be relaxed and sleepy during their session:
Bathe Your Newborn Before Their Session - If you're worried that your child might feel fussy during their session, I recommend giving your newborn a nice warm bath before their photos to get them into a relaxed state before we start.
Feed Your Baby Right Before Their Photoshoot - If possible, feed your baby right before you arrive at the studio (or upon arrival). With a full (but not OVERfull) tummy, your baby will likely be nice and sleepy for their session. **The reason you want to avoid overfeeding your newborn is that gas or an upset tummy could actually increase their discomfort and lead to more fussiness.
(Safely) Keep Your Newborn Awake Before Their Session - I recommend my clients try to keep their newborn entertained and awake leading up to their session (within reason, and always safely, of course!) By the time you arrive for your photos, your baby will be ready for a nice, long nap! **Please keep in mind that this should be practiced safely and not overdone--even a little bit of mental stimulation before your newborn's session is great. If you're not sure if you can do this safely, it's best to skip this recommendation and use one of the others.
Bring a Pacifier With You (Even if Your Baby Doesn't Use One) - Pacifiers are great for calming a fussy baby. Even if your newborn doesn't use a pacifier at home, I highly recommend my clients bring one to their session in case of fussiness emergency.
After Your Session:
How and When Will I Get My Photos?
I will send you a digital album of your photo proofs within 24 hours of your session. You will select your favorite photos to be edited, and once your selections are made I'll get to work editing them to perfection for you! You'll get the final digital edits of your selected photos as soon as they’re finished, which usually takes 5-7 business days. At that point you can decide whether or not you'd like to purchase prints, albums, etc.
Do You Offer Photo Prints and Albums For Purchase?
Yes! I recommend using my print lab for your photo prints and albums as not every print service is created equal. I stand behind the quality and color matching you’ll get with my print lab, and I know you’ll be thrilled with the quality of your images and albums.
I will provide information upon delivery of your digital album as to how you can order prints and albums of your newborn photos!
How Can I Use My Photos?
Your newborn photos are for you to use however you’d like! Share them with family and on social media, print birth announcements, order prints, canvases, & albums, and most importantly, cherish them forever!
Are you interested in scheduling your Colorado Springs studio newborn session? Click Here
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