Your Guide to a Stress Free Newborn Session
-Rockhampton Newborn Photographer-
As new, first-time parents, or experienced parents with other children, a newborn session can understandably bring a sense of nervousness about it. My most common worry that parents express is that baby won’t sleep, or baby will be unsettled, or that siblings won’t be on their best behaviour.
Let’s address these in relation to your newborn session.
1. Baby won’t sleep- Firstly, that’s ok. It’s very rare that a baby won’t sleep for their newborn session, and in these very rare occasions, it is essentially much less stressful for the parents to go-along with the fact that baby won’t sleep (it is a gorgeous sight, seeing such new life with eyes wide open, full of expressions, concentrating, trying to focus and locking eyes) than to cause unnecessary stress on parents to try and try to make a baby fall asleep after feeding, nappy changing, wrapping and rocking etc have all been exhausted.
It is important for you as new parents to enter a newborn session with an open mind, trusting that your chosen photographer is capable and confident in what they can deliver.
* See below examples of wide awake, beautiful babies.
2. Baby is unsettled- Secondly, that is ok too! Your photographer will be wrapping, unwrapping, posing your baby, settling your baby into certain positions and then moving baby into another position. This is normal, and this also can unsettle baby (make baby a little grumpy, especially if they are nice and cosy). Your experienced photographer will be able to make these adjustments minimal and have techniques that should ideally settle baby back into comfort with minimal unhappiness on baby’s part.
Parents will react to your photographers demeanour, body language and ability throughout this process. Your experienced photographer during these transitions will maintain a calm, professional composition so that you, as parents feel stress free, calm and assured during your session.
3. Siblings & A Newborn Session- Newborn sessions can take a while, so being prepared is key. If grandparents are conveniently available, have them pick the children up once family and sibling photos have been finished. If not, having snacks (lunchbox) available for when the children aren’t needed for photos is helpful. Bring along a favourite toy or something that your older children like to play with can keep them occupied also.
Your photographer will work around the children, aiming to make the photos fun, including little games (peek-a-boo, high five when they co-operate, sing songs, have dad do something fun). Not having unrealistic expectations of your children during this session assists in managing stress around how your children behave. You may not get that picture perfect photo of all of your children sitting, smiling, all at the same time, however much more candid, real-life, endearing photos might be more realistic. For example, kisses on baby’s head, counting baby’s fingers and toes, singing baby a song, holding baby and staring in genuine curiosity at his/her little features. Your experienced photographer will ensure your children feel involved, won’t be bothered by incooperative siblings, will work with and around children to capture precious memories and create a stress free, enjoyable experience for all involved.
* See below for examples of candid sibling photos.
4. What Do We Wear? If you’re dressing multiple people, this can weigh heavily on you, which is not what you need with a new baby also. Your photographer may have a client wardrobe on offer. I do, which takes the worry out of finding something for mum and baby. In relation to siblings and dad, communicate with your photographer and ask what colours, styles and looks that he/she would advise. Most photographers would advise minimal pattern and prints, keep it simple. I always suggest a tidy button up linen/cotton blend shirt for dad and boys, in neutral and or earthy colours (can be dark and deep, just nothing bright and vibrant). For pants, chinos are great (generally knee length and in a tan, beige, denim even colour). For girls, subtle patterns are fine, light florals etc, but once again, veering away from bold, bright, eccentric colours and patterns. Once again, keep it simple and subtle, so to ensure what she wears is isn’t too vastly different and detracting from everyone else’s outfits.
See below for ideas of outfit colours and combinations.
Things you can do to prepare;
Feed baby prior to the session (we love a good milk drunk baby).
Dress baby in minimal, making it easier for your photographer to undress and redress baby with minimal unsettling of baby.
Book your newborn session in advance so you don’t have the stress of trying to find a booking last minute.
Communicate your concerns, wishes and thoughts with your photographer.
Pack the night before, have the baby bag ready to go (extra milk if bottlefeeding) and have outfits (other family members) ready to go so that you can enjoy a peaceful morning.