A Guide to Preparing for Your In-Home Newborn Photography Session | Fort Worth Newborn Photographer

Welcoming a newborn into your family is one of the most joy-filled events that will happen in your life time! One of the best ways to document this momentous occasion is by photographing it. As a mama myself I understand that time is fleeting and babies don’t keep, so let’s freeze time and remember your baby how they are now; forever.

I have created this guide to ensure that your newborn in-home session experience is smooth and stress-free.

When Should I Schedule My In-Home Newborn Session?

Newborns are typically sleepier and have shorter wake windows in the first two weeks of life. Because of this, I suggest that you schedule your session between 10-14 days after your due date. If baby comes earlier or later, then we can adjust the date as needed.

Create a Comfortable Environment

Babies love the warmth! For this reason we want to maintain a warm and cozy atmosphere for your little one.

Here are some tips to create that cozy environment:

1. Turn off all fans in the room(s) that we will be working in.
2. Newborns are most comfortable in a room with a temperature between 75-80 degrees. I have a small space heater that I bring to sessions to help keep the temperature warm enough.
3. Turn a sound machine on to help baby sleep (I have one that I bring with me to the session if you do not have one!)
4. Keep a pacifier on hand for soothing if needed during the session.

Go with the Flow: Plan for Breaks

Babies are known for beating to the tune of their own drum…meaning they can be unpredictable. Can I let you in on a secret? That is totally normal and OK! We all know that a well-fed and content baby is more likely to cooperate during a photo session. The number one reason my clients worry about taking these small breaks during their session is because they think we will run out of time and not get enough shots of their precious little one. To that I say, “don’t worry!” I have added in “fluff” time to make sure that we can accommodate all breaks that your baby, your other kiddos, or even you and your partner need! I want this to be as stress-free as possible for you, so take all the breaks you need!

What Props Should I Include in My Newborn Session?

My number one tip for choosing props for your newborn session is to choose simple and meaningful props. While it is tempting to go all out with props, choose one or two meaningful props such as; a name sign, a birth announcement card, a family heirloom, or a special stuffed animal.

Styling You and Your Family For Your In-Home Newborn Session

Styling is one of the most important parts of preparing for your session and I am here to help make it a breeze! Here are some tips/ outfit ideas for every member of the family!

• Mom: First, decide if you want to wear jeans or a dress. If you decide on jeans, wear a flattering and comfortable top in a neutral shade. If you would like to wear a dress, choose a longer flowy type dress in a neutral color. Add in some minimal jewelry if you desire.
• Dad: He is going to be the easiest to dress! Stick to a neutral henley top with either khakis or any wash of jeans.
• Siblings: For little girls I suggest a neutral colored dress with texture like lace or a muted pattern like pale pink flowers. For little boys, style them similar to dad. A neutral top and some jeans or khakis (make sure dad and son are not matching, but coordinating)
• Baby: For baby I provide all wraps, so if you would like them to wear something besides that, then I suggest a neutral outfit.

Some of my favorite places to shop for these items are; Amazon, Walmart, Target, Old Navy, Baltic Born, and Kohls. Also, no need to worry about shoes because everyone will be barefoot!

Click here for some outfit inspiration for your session!

Styling Don’ts for Your In-Home Newborn Session

Here are a few styling don’ts when it comes to your In-Home Newborn Session.

1. Don’t wear something you are uncomfortable in or something you would not typically wear. Why? This will show on your face and make for some not-so-great facial expressions and/or stiffness throughout the session.
2. Avoid loud patterns or bright colors. This takes the attention away from the moment we are capturing and puts the focus on the outfits.
3. Avoid bulky jewelry. Again, it takes the attention away from the moment.

What to Do the Day of Your Newborn Session

YAY! Your session date is finally here! The day of your session can bring some unwanted stress or nerves. Here are some tips to help you minimize your stress and be fully prepared for the session.

• Lay out all outfits the night before the session.
• Clear clutter from the room(s) we will be working in.
• Feed baby right before I arrive.
• Keep the baby up about 45 minutes before the session, so that baby is ready to sleep when I arrive.
• Put baby in a fresh diaper.
• Lotion baby and yourself to avoid flaky skin.

Relax and Enjoy the Process

It’s natural to feel a bit anxious, especially if it is your first time having professional photos taken. Remember to relax and enjoy the process! Candid moments often result in the most heartwarming photographs. Embrace this stage that your family is in, it is only for a short while.

Ready to Book Your In-Home Newborn Session? Let’s Chat!