lifestyle Newborn in-home Session prep guide
>> I absolutely adore in-home sessions! they get to showcase your brand new family member in the comfort of their own home with their parents, siblings, and pets! your little will change so much very quickly in those first few weeks, so I love being able to capture that brand new goodness for parents in the comfort and familiarity of their own home.
>> I love capturing your new little squish and family using the natural light in your house! We will be embracing your home’s natural beauty and will open up all those window blinds turning off the overhead lights and taking advantage of the natural brightness as much as possible. I’ll get you next to windows we will take full advantage of the light coming into your house, Even on the cloudiest (and even rainiest too!) days, you’ll be surprised with how much the outside light comes in to give you the best possible pictures!
>> Try and feed your new little shortly before your session time. This ensures baby has a full belly and will hopefully be happy and cooperative for our session! If you would like any feeding/nursing pictures, we absolutely can do this at the beginning of the session…so hold off feeding babe until I get there and we’ll get some feeding/nursing pics done first!
>> The best time for in-home sessions are during daylight hours, usually in the morning. starting your session between 10am - 1pm usually gives the best light and happiest little one!
>> Since this is a lifestyle session, I am focused on the candid and documentary nature of the session, You can absolutely round up your own items to incorporate into photos, such as your own swaddles, hats, basket, headbands, outfits, etc… for your little squish. Outfit/blanket changes are absolutely okay and I love when we get some a variety of pictures of your little in different outfits and blankets! We will truly just be capturing your new life at home with your newest family member! genuine smiles and laughs are what this session is all about!
What to wear? This is totally up to you! I usually suggest neutral colors and that color palate is transitional. ( White, black, tan/beige, grey). I tell moms to pick their outfit first and build others outfits around that. I do encourage moms to wear something comfortable and flowy so as not constricting on their fresh postpartum body. Having a light sweater or cardigan to go over your outfit works well too for pictures.
How long do newborn sessions last? Typically between 30-60 minutes. I know how precious that time is those first few weeks after your new addition has arrived, so I don’t want to overtake that for your family. I try and be quick and efficient in getting you all of the love I can in a small amount of time.
When do we schedule a newborn session? I typically advise parents to schedule as soon as they feel comfortable after birth! Truly, the ‘newer’ the baby, the better the session typically goes. The younger the baby is typically the sleepier they are and more cooperative they will be. Sometimes after a few weeks baby acne sets in, scratches appear, etc… I try and encourage in-home sessions as close to birth as possible. Ideally within the first two weeks after birth, but the sooner the better!
