If you are considering hiring a photographer for newborn photos the best time to book your session is when you are pregnant. This will ensure photographers availability and that both of you can plan around your due date. However, if you have already given birth and decided you want to have newborn photos, book as soon as possible!
When is the best time to photograph my newborn baby?
Newborns are photographed best within the first two weeks, ideally when they are between 4-10 days old. After the first 3 days baby should be feeding well and moms milk should have come in (if you are breastfeeding). To insure the sleepiest and squishiest photos these first few days of life are the ideal time to have photos taken. It is at this age that they are still likely to curl up in those adorable poses and are more willing to sleep for us.
How will you schedule my session if I don’t know exactly when the baby will arrive?
I will tentatively schedule your session about 1 week after your due date and once your baby arrives, we will adjust the date accordingly.
Do you have a studio?
Unfortunately, no. However I will come to your home and set up. The key to getting the most out of your session is finding the best light. Your bedroom could act as a great ‘studio’ for our shoot. Large windows and glass doors are ideal. I’ll scout out for the best light when I arrive unless you already know the best light in your home. Parent’s master bed can be also one of the best places to take many of the shots.
Also, please don’t feel the need to run around and clean up your home! The last thing I want is a stressed momma. All I need is a small space with good natural light. Do dress in comfortable clothes with no distracting patterns or logos so we can grab a few shots of you together, other family members can join in too. I love to capture sweet candid moments of all or your family together with the new bundle of joy.
How long are the sessions?
It depends. A session could be wrapped up within an hour and a half or stretch to four hours. This all depends on the little one. We will break for feedings to ensure the little one is the most content and sleepy. Soothing into position and prop changes also take time. I will never rush a session and like to keep things nice and laid back for everyone involved. Typically, I like to shoot in the morning, 10am to 12pm is the best time for a session. This gives you the rest of the afternoon to do other things.
Do I need to provide props?
Not at all! Unless there is a special hat or blanket you would like to have incorporated to the photos please don’t feel like you need to provide anything for the the shoot (except the baby!). I prefer a lifestyle approach to newborn photos. I will try to get a few traditional shots as well as plenty of candid moments throughout the shoot. Simple is best when it comes to newborns, as they photograph so well in their “birthday suits”. My style is to truly capture the real moments you share with your baby, I will bring a collection of a few blankets, baskets and swaddling blankets to create their “outfit”. I will ask you what your color scheme in your home/nursery is to ensure I bring the right blankets and hats/headbands that will suit your decor. I want you to love your prints and canvases and be able to hang them in your home for years to come.
I have seen those set up baby poses (“froggy pose”, etc), can you do it?
As much as I want every client to have exactly what they want from each photo session I do reserve the right to not shoot in a certain pose if I feel it is unsafe. I will attempt certain poses if I think the baby is sleepy enough. However, like I said above, I prefer simple newborn photos. Simple doesn’t mean boring however. I love the tiny details, the little eye lashes, pouty lips and little toes. I’d much rather focus on those beautiful features of your newborn than getting “that pose”.
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If you have any comments or questions for me please email me at olgabphotography@gmail.com. I look forward to hearing from you!
