What to bring, what to wear, to your baby's newborn photo shoot
You’re in a new and exciting time in your life. You’ve now got this adorable, precious little soul and are ready to document his or her first memories in photographs. That’s where I come in! Hi! I’m Michelle at Little Brown Rabbit Photography located in Darlington, just east of Perth, Western Australia and I want to make this a joyous experience for you and your family. I know how nerve-wracking and stressful photo day is, especially when you’re running on little to no sleep. To help you out with this process, I’ve compiled a list of preparation tips for how to prepare for a successful newborn photo shoot. Hopefully I'll ease some of your worries and make the experience as stress-free as possible. If you have any questions at all, feel free to contact me at michelle@littlebrownrabbit.com.au. I can get you the answers you’re looking for so just ask me anything!
What should I bring to the photo shoot?
I try to keep our sessions pretty basic and focused in on your new little bundle of joy. I will take care of the backdrops, hats and headbands, etc. However, if there is something you’d like to include in your photos I will be more than happy to incorporate it into your session. If you’re bringing personal items, please advise me ahead of time, especially for larger props, so that I have a little time to work out how to incorporate the items in the safest possible way. Some ideas are a special outfit or blanket, a favorite stuffed animal or toy, heirlooms.
Please bring a dummy / pacifier to speed along settling your baby. Sometimes babies just want to suck, and a pacifier may help for the short period of the shoot, even if you don't intend to use one after the shoot.
Please bring extra milk for your baby. Its HOT in the studio, and your baby will be moving more than normal, using extra calories, so an extra feed is to be expected. Where possible please bring an extra bottle of expressed milk if you're breastfeeding, as this will help move the shoot along.
Safety in the newborn studio
Some props require composite photos to make them safe. That means I put two or more photos together for the final photograph. Safety is always at the forefront of my mind, and I use only safe props and freshly laundered blankets, wraps and backdrops.
To ensure that your baby is happy and calm during the session, I suggest bringing a blanket that we can swaddle baby in, as well as a pacifier / dummy. Also be sure to have fresh bottle if your child is currently using a bottle, or be prepared to feed your baby throughout the shoot if breastfeeding, and nappies ready to go. I have a changing table in the studio.
How to dress your baby for the newborn photo shoot
Newborns are not very patient when it comes to outfit changes. I suggest having your baby in an outfit that can be easily pulled off for the shoot and preferably not over the head. Onesies that do up by zip or buttons at the front are perfect if at all possible. I love this type of onesie, Bonds Wondersuits. They're absolutely perfect for removing without disturbing your baby too much. I prefer to photograph newborn babies in the nude or wrapped or swaddled, or in specially made outfits for use in photo shoots rather than in outfits from a shop which can most often be way too big for your tiny newborn. In my opinion, babies photograph best this way, and I can document all the little rolls, flakes and tiny details for you.
What to wear for parent and family photos
If you are going to be in photos with your baby, I suggest bringing a backup top or shirt just in case. Accidents will, and frequently do happen! In my experience, little boys are especially fond of peeing all over Dad. I also suggest that you wear a white, plain coloured or black shirt or tee without logos in case I need to photograph parts of you with your child on the backdrop (for example, just your hands holding the baby) so you don’t stand out. I like to keep the focus of the image on your connection with your new baby, not on your clothing.
A good idea is layering your outfit as it will be warm in the studio and I don’t want you to overheat. A singlet with a light layer over the top is perfect. Don't forget to consider your wardrobe choice if you're breastfeeding. I always encourage breastfeeding in my studio, and you are also welcome to warm up a bottle of milk too. My studio is necessarily warm to keep your baby safe, warm and comfortable whilst they are undressed. I am always keeping an eye on the temperature in the studio, but if you feel too warm, you may step outside for some fresh air at any point during the session.
Still have questions about how to prepare for a newborn shoot?
If you have any questions about wardrobe or about how to prepare for a successful newborn photo shoot, please contact me at michelle@littlebrownrabbit.com.au or fill in this contact form --->Contact Me . I’d be more than happy to help and offer my opinions too.
Please keep a look out for Part 2 of this tip sheet.
Thanks for reading this article and I hope you learnt a little bit more about how to prepare for a successful newborn photo shoot. I look forward to booking you and your newborn’s photo session!
