How To Prepare For A Successful Newborn Photo Shoot {Part 2}


 Being prepared for your newborn baby’s photo shoot will make all the difference to both you and your baby being relaxed and calm for the duration of the shoot. I know how nerve-wracking and stressful photo day is, especially when you’re running on little to no sleep. To help you out, I’ve compiled a list of preparation tips to ease some of your worries and make the experience as stress-free as possible.


If you still have any questions at all, feel free to contact me at michelle@littlebrownrabbit.com.au or fill out this --->contact form  and I can get you the answers you’re looking for.


How long will the newborn shoot take?


Newborn shoots can take a while. They usually last between 2-4 hours, but I suggest not planning anything for the whole day. I do try to wrap things up as quickly as possible, especially if you have a toddler sibling in tow. Ordinarily I spend more time shushing and rocking your baby than actually taking photos. I do everything I can before the shoot to make sure we have the best possible chance of getting those adorable, sleepy, curly newborn poses, but sometimes baby needs a bit of encouragement to sleep though it all. Safety is my number one priority and I allow plenty of time for cuddles and feeding. You're more than welcome to breastfeed in my studio in any of the comfortable chairs and lounges I have available, or warm up a bottle. My advise is to bring a bottle of expressed milk if you're breastfeeding, especially if you and baby are still getting the hang of it.

 

What happens during the newborn photo shoot?


When you arrive at my studio please park in the driveway and I'll come out to meet you and direct you into my studio. Once we're inside, I’ll welcome you and make sure you’re comfortable and we'll go through some of the ideas you've filled in on the questionnaire ahead of your shoot. I usually start with family photos, then sibling photos, followed by prop shots and then finish off with baby only.


Props and colours


We’ll discuss the types of props you’d like me to use and the colours you prefer if you haven't already told me in your questionnaire. I have a large selection of props and outfits to choose from. I try to keep our sessions pretty basic and focused on your new little bundle of joy and therefore take a minimal approach to prop usage. I’ll also ask if you have brought any items from home for me to use. Ideally you will have already given me a heads-up about these items so I will have thought about how to use them safely. I will take care of the backdrops, hats and headbands, etc. However, if there is something you’d like to include in your photos – a special outfit or blanket, a favourite stuffed animal or toy, heirlooms, etc. I will be more than happy to incorporate it into your session where possible.


Personal Items


If you’re bringing personal items, please advise me ahead of time, especially for larger props. I might need a little time to work out how to incorporate your items in the safest possible way. Some props require composite photos to make them safe i.e. putting two or more photos together for the final photograph.


Settling Baby


After your photos with your baby I’ll take your baby from you while you relax for a while. I’ll undress your baby and settle them, ready for solo photos. Please use the time I am working with your baby to relax, unwind and enjoy having your arms free for a little while. Have a drink and a snack and even a snooze if you feel like it. If you need wifi, please ask for the password to connect to mine. I have super-fast internet! It may sometimes help speed things along if I can use a dummy or a soother for the duration of the shoot, even if you don't plan to use one in future. Using one helps me avoid passing your baby backwards and forward to you if they just need a "quick suck" to settle. I like the Gumdrop soother style, or the cherry latex dummy. You might want to consider bringing a bottle of expressed milk if you're breastfeeding, especially if you and baby are still getting the hang of it, so you can completely relax during the shoot knowing baby is well-fed.


Safety is my top priority


My number one concern is the safety and the comfort of your baby. ALL of my shots where baby appears to be suspended or unsupported are composite shots. That means I use 2, 3 or more images to create art. Safety is always at the forefront of my mind. I use only safe props and freshly laundered blankets, wraps and backdrops.


And there you have it! My definitive guide for how to prepare for your baby' photoshoot. If you missed it, Part 1 is right here. I’m looking forward to meeting you and making heart-inspired art with your baby.

 

Michelle x

A swaddled baby looking at the camera in a photography studio in Perth
A mother holding her newborn baby in a photography studio in Perth
A newborn baby posed in a heart shaped bowl in a studio in Perth