Preparing for your Newborn Session
Newborn sessions are full of hope, love, exhaustion, joy and possibly feelings of being overwhelmed - whether it's getting used to adding a new family member or getting comfortable with how your body changes during and after pregnancy - however you are feeling at the time, I can guarantee that you will never regret taking pictures of these precious, fleeting moments. Like preparing for any other session, planning ahead of time will help make the sessions flow and will ensure that you look forward to your session.
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Styling your outfits, hair and make up
COORDINATING YOUR LOOK
Be sure to plan your outfits (including shoes and accessories) at least a week before your session. Here are some general guidelines to follow when picking your attire...
When photographing for newborn sessions, I want to achieve a look that is classic and timeless. I'm a big fan of a soft, neutral palette - light pinks, off-whites, light greys and blues. For maternity, a neutral colored, flowing dress that can tie back around the waist is very flattering.
For women - at your baby's newborn session you will want to plan on being in at least some of the pictures with your new baby. Pick tops or dresses that are neutral and soft flowing fabrics that will allow you to feel comfortable.
I love a more casual look for men - a sweater or a dressed down shirt (solid - no logos!) works well - but the casualness should coordinate with the look of your partner's outfit. If one partner is dressed up and one dressed down, you lose cohesiveness to your overall look.
Arrange your outfits ahead of time on a big bed, including accessories. Make sure all clothes are clean and pressed and on hangers a few days before your session. Visit my pinterest page for more ideas!
For infants and children (up to size 7), my favorite local shop is Broomtail Boutique - Maris and her crew are more than happy to help you pick the perfect outfit for your little one!
INFANTS are sweet, sleepy bundles; keep things simple
CHOOSE:
• solid onesies, simple cloth diapers or diaper covers
•neutral colored swaddles (off-white/white or white with a simple pattern) works best, I recommend the cotton muslin swaddles from Aden and Anais
• knitted caps, which are adorable for a few images
• a few special/classic props, like heirloom silver rattles or a favorite lovey
AVOID:
• grown-up clothes, with collars and buttons
• socks, shoes, or big bows
TODDLERS and OLDER CHILDREN
CHOOSE:
• a softer color palette that compliments your outfits
• non-fussy, casual clothes that keep kids comfortable
• make sure their clothes fit them at their current size - don't choose anything that we need to wait for them to grow into
AVOID:
• big bows and too much hair product
• any sort of makeup
• baggy clothes
• logos and busy patterns
ADULTS
CHOOSE:
• clothes that flatter your body type and coordinate well with your partner
• for women - make sure to book any color/cut appointments far enough in advance to ensure you will get on your salon's schedule; for post-pregnancy, I realize you may not have the time (or energy) to visit the salon, so just strive for natural with a little product
• for boys/men - if you are thinking about getting a hair cut, do this at least a week before your session - let it settle a bit (trust me, it photographs better than new cuts!)
• shoes should be clean and stylish and coordinate well with the look of your outfit
• to have natural makeup that is just slightly heavier than usual
• to bring at least one alternate outfit to newborn sessions - you always want to be prepared for spit up to happen!
AVOID:
• sleeveless shirts and shorts, which tend to not flatter adults; the caveat to this is if you have really toned arms, then by all means, go sleeveless!
• logos and bold, busy patterns
• bright white athletic shoes (please!)
FOR EVERYONE
Please make sure to look at your nails and make sure that they are clean and cut - your hands will be in a lot of the portraits for maternity and newborn sessions. A manicure is always a great idea!
What to bring to your session
On the day of your session it's a good idea to bring the following with you:
• extra pacifiers
• diapers & neutral colored diaper covers
• neutral colored swaddles (off-white/white or white with a simple pattern)
• hair brush
• lint brush
• in case spit-up happens, an extra shirt/blouse is never a bad idea (for each parent)
• water to keep everyone hydrated
• favorite toys and mementos that are special to you/your baby
• make sure to bring snacks to your session that are not messy, but that will keep you and your children happy - we want to avoid hangry!