Athens Georgia Newborn Photographer- How to Get Ready for Your Newborn Session

You’re pregnant! Congratulations! It may sound crazy, but newborn photos are something you should think about way before you give birth. What kind of session do you want for your newborn? What is your style? These questions are what must be asked first. Do your research and look around at photographers in the area. Look at their portfolios and the reviews people have given them and find someone who will be a good fit for you and your new little family.

Now that you have chosen a photographer, reach out to them midway through your pregnancy. Many maternity and newborn photographers will book up months in advance so it is important to have a tentative place holder on their schedule.

When should the newborn session be scheduled? Most newborn sessions are scheduled when the baby is between 5 and 14 days old. You should contact your photographer soon after your successful delivery as it may take up to a week to add you to their schedule. Things that will be taken into consideration for booking are your little one’s birth stats such as weight, number of days old, and if or when a circumcision is scheduled.

At Lane Collins Photography, we provide all props, wardrobe, styling, and set-up with your session fee. Space heaters, warmers, and hand sanitizers are always used with the safest precautions taken for your little one. The session usually lasts between 2-3 hours. We aim to make it as relaxing an experience as possible for you, so we will typically be handling the baby the entire time unless feeding or diaper changes are needed. There will also be dry snacks and drinks available for you during your time at the studio.

How should you prep your baby? First off, make sure you disclose any allergies, illness, or developing skin conditions with your photographer prior to your session date with your pediatrician’s consent. On the morning of your session try to skip a feeding in the morning until right before your session time. Bathe your baby with either a full water bath or a wet cloth wipe for some awake time. After feeding your baby only dress them in a diaper. Depending on the time of year, wrap a few layers of blanket(s) on top of them while in the car seat. Nothing should pull over their head and omit socks or mittens until after the session if desired.

Here is a helpful feeding schedule reminder: If you live within 15 minutes of the studio, feed baby 20 minutes before leaving. If you live within 30 minutes of the studio, feed baby 10 minutes before leaving. Finally, if you live 1 hour away from the studio, feed baby half the milk and the remaining half once you arrive at the studio.

What do you need to bring to your newborn session? 1. Milk/bottles/nursing accessories. 2. Pacifier with no stuffed animal attached. 3. Plush blankets. 4. Diapers and wipes. 5. Going home pajamas or onesie for baby. 6. Toys and snacks if you are bringing siblings along.

Finally, if you will be taking family pictures as well, here are some tips to prepare the rest of your family. Make sure you discuss with your photographer if you have preferences for certain color schemes or props. Selections that are used are based on gender, baby’s size, and baby’s alertness. Dress in solid, neutral muted colors with a snug fit. Avoid excess fabrics, logos, patterns, and the color yellow. Most snuggle poses are usually very tightly framed to focus on the baby. Jewelry should be kept to a minimum. Toddlers or other children photographing will be taken at the beginning of the session and will intermittently join back in for certain looks. Otherwise, adults or group photos will be done at the end of the session. Alternatively, feel free to have another parent arrive towards the end of the session with siblings and children to avoid restlessness. If we are doing family photos at the end, you will have around one hour of time for any last minute touchups while I work with the baby.

When you book your Athens Georgia newborn photographer at Lane Collins Photography, we aim to make your newborn photo session a special time to showcase your new little bundle of joy. At our Loft 33 Studio location we have a multitude of backdrops, clothing, and props to bring your dream session to life.