Newborn Life is a Blur, but Your Memories Don’t Have to Be
As a mom-to-be, you’ve probably heard it countless times: “They grow up so fast.” It’s so true! In those first few weeks, life can feel like a whirlwind of sleepless nights, feedings, and endless diaper changes. Amid the chaos, it’s easy to miss the fleeting beauty of your newborn’s tiniest details. The little yawns, curled toes, and peaceful expressions. That’s why a newborn photography session is more than just pictures; it’s a way to pause time and preserve these precious moments forever.
Why You Should Book Your Newborn Photography Session Early
Welcoming a newborn into your life is a fleeting and precious moment. Those tiny fingers, sleepy smiles, and soft tufts of hair will change in the blink of an eye. That’s why a newborn photography session is a priceless investment. One that captures memories you’ll cherish forever.
At Fawn Memories Photography, we encourage parents to book their newborn sessions early, ideally during the second trimester. Here’s why:
Unique Timing: While most photographers limit their sessions to babies within the first 14 days, I understand that every journey is different. I offer newborn sessions for babies up to 1 month old. This flexibility is perfect for families facing unexpected complications, longer recoveries, or simply needing more time to settle into life with a newborn.
Unique Approach: Unlike many photographers, I capture both open-eyed and closed-eyed shots of your baby. If your baby is wide awake, I ensure poses are safe and natural, showcasing their bright and curious expressions. I also take the time to learn your preferred colors and style the shoot accordingly upon my arrival at your home. There’s no cookie-cutter setup. Each session is personalized to reflect your preferences and your baby’s unique charm.
Limited Availability: Newborn photography is time-sensitive. Sessions are best conducted when babies are sleepiest and most flexible for those adorable poses. Booking early ensures you secure a slot within this window.
Planning Ahead: Early booking allows time to discuss your preferences, choose themes, and prepare for a smooth and stress-free experience.
Peace of Mind: With your session scheduled well in advance, you can focus on welcoming your little one without worrying about last-minute logistics.
A home family session welcoming their newest addition, baby Bethany!
Commonly Asked Questions About Newborn Photography
How long does a newborn session take?
A newborn session typically lasts between 1.5 to 4 hours, depending on the number of setups. We go at your baby’s pace, allowing for feeding, soothing, and diaper changes as needed. There’s no rush, and we ensure the session is relaxed and enjoyable for both you and your little one.
Can siblings or pets be included in the photos?
Yes! Siblings and pets are always welcome to join in family photos. Please let me know in advance so I can plan poses and timing to keep everyone engaged.
The cutest sibling shots ever!!
Do we take baby individual shots first or family shots first?
The order of the photos depends on your baby’s wakefulness. If your baby is sleepy after a feed, we’ll start with individual shots to capture those peaceful, dreamy moments. By the time we do family photos, your baby will likely be well-rested and content. If your baby is awake, we’ll begin with family shots and then transition to individual portraits once they’re ready for a nap. If there’s a toddler involved, we prioritize family shots first while they’re fresh and engaged.
How much space do you need for a session?
If you're concerned about whether your home is suitable for a photoshoot, here's some guidance. A minimum of 2x2 meters of floor space is ideal for the newborn floor setup. For family photos, the couch or a plain wall can serve as an excellent backdrop. Bedrooms with good natural light are also great for cozy shots. Don’t worry if you're unsure, I'll guide you during our pre-session discussion to make the most of your space.
What type of lighting do you use during the session?
Parents often worry about bright flashes and their potential impact on a newborn’s eyes. At Fawn Memories Photography, I use a lighting setup where the flash is directed into an umbrella, which reflects the light out, creating a soft and gentle effect. While the flash may seem sudden and could be a bit alarming, rest assured it is completely safe for your baby and designed to be as non-intrusive as possible. If there’s ample natural light in your home, such as from full-length windows, I may choose to use that for a warm, timeless look.
Can you guess if this is studio lighting or natural lighting?
Do I need to switch off all fans during the shoot?
It’s understandable to be concerned about your baby’s comfort during the session. There’s no need to turn off all fans. A well-ventilated space is important for everyone’s comfort, especially yours and your baby’s. Just be sure that the fans aren’t directed at the baby to maintain a cozy atmosphere.
Should I invite family and friends to the session?
As a new parent, it’s natural to want to share this moment with family and friends. However, for the best results, I recommend keeping the session intimate. Too many people can create distractions, making it harder to capture those serene, sleepy moments. If family members, like grandparents, wish to join, it’s best to limit it to one or two people to maintain a calm environment.
What should my baby wear for the session?
Newborn sessions typically focus on wraps and props, so your baby doesn’t need to wear anything specific. I’ll provide a variety of wraps, but if you have any personal items or outfits you'd like to include, feel free to bring them along.
What if my baby is fussy during the session?
It’s completely normal for babies to fuss or cry. I have experience handling newborns and will take the time to soothe them. We’ll work at your baby’s pace to ensure the session remains calm and enjoyable.
What happens after the photo session?
After the session, you will receive a gallery of beautiful, color-corrected, high-quality images to choose from. The editing process typically takes 3-4 weeks, and delivery of the final edited images and products may take slightly longer.
Black and white colour outfit coordination is top of my list! With baby Boaz in matching white wrap.
Preparing for Your Newborn Photography Session
Here are some tips to ensure a smooth session:
Timing: Plan the session when your baby is typically sleepy; mid-morning often works best.
Feeding: Feed your baby right before the session starts to keep them calm and content.
Outfits and Props: I’ll bring a variety of props and wraps. You’re welcome to include personal items, such as a favorite blanket or heirloom.
Temperature: Ensure the room is warm enough for your baby, especially if we’re doing naked poses.
Coordinate Family Outfits: Simple, neutral tones work best to keep the focus on your baby. Don’t stress about how your clothes fit or feel post-birth; I’ll focus on taking waist-up shots to ensure you look your best.
Booking Your Session
Ready to capture the magic of your newborn’s first days? Contact me at Fawn Memories Photography to book your session. Let’s create timeless portraits that celebrate your little one’s arrival.
