Are you expecting your little bundle of joy? or have they just arrived? if so you might be thinking about booking a professional newborn photography session. You might be unsure about what to expect (especially if this is your first baby) and what it might entail so we created this blog to help answer some of those queries.
When is the best time to have my newborn photoshoot?
The answer you will get from most photographers is 5-10 days old, however from our perspective it really depends on your preferences and of course its not always easy to be up and out after giving birth, particulary if baby has been born via C-section. Here is some insight, if you really want the best chance of capturing that very early sleepy few days, then aim for the 5 -10 day mark, but if you are keen to get a few eyes open shots as well, then a session at 2/3 weeks has a better chance. With all that in mind, we offer newborn sessions up to 6 weeks old and we tailor your session to your baby and your preferences.
When should i book my newborn session?
If you can, it is more ideal to secure your place with your chosen studio/photographer before your little one arrives. The reason being that the window of opportunity to capture that early newborn phase is short and fleeting, so if you can plan ahead, aim for a session around a week after your due date, and if need be most photographers will reschedule the session as required if baby arrives early or late, we certainly do, we keep in touch and adjust as necessary.
That said, if you haven't secured a space and your newborn is already here, don't fret, just get in touch with your chosen photographer they will usually do what they can to fit you in. Some studios have a online scheduling option, where you can see the next available session too, this is what we have to enable our customers to book at their leisure, whether thats between 9 and 5 or during a late night feed at 3am!
How long will my session take?
We opt for a maximum 2 hr session for our customers, some photographers will offer a 4, even 6 hour session, we just feel that is far too long than is necessary to be posing a newborn. We find our 2 hour session is the perfect balance, its not too intense for baby and parents, it allows time if baby needs changing or feeding, and plenty of beuatiful moments will be captured.
How involved will be in the session, can we have some family shots too?
We include family shots within our newborn sessions if desired by the parents. When you book in we send out a questionnaire that enables you to specify your preferences, this is also an opportunity for you to indicate if you prefer with or without props in your session too. As for the session itself, at our studio we have one parent sitting with the baby who if they wish can assist in moving them and settling them, you can be as involved as you wish.
What should I dress my baby in? What should we wear for the family shots?
Our recommendation is to keep it simple. If you have a favourite outfit that you really want to capture your little one in, or perhaps you want a professional photograph of the sleepsuit they came home in, then it's ideal to bring them in that outfit so they are ready to go and we don't then have to disturb them with a change of clothes. Just a basic white vest, or sleep suit can be all you need for your session, especially if you are keen for the wrapped and bare skin style of imagery, we have all the props and wraps we need. For Parents, again, keeping it simple with a neutral Tshirt, or flowing dress draws the attention to the baby, and we will match the background to suit your clothing. The main for adults is to avoid printed words across your clothing. You really don't have to worry too much about 'looking your best' this is about the intimate moments with your newborn, you don't even have to look at the camera.
I want to book a newborn session but my baby is unsettled, or has baby acne . . .
One thing we quickly learn as we become parents is that there is never a perfect time! If you delay now, next week its something different holding you back, and before you know it the moment is gone. The benefit of coming to a professional studio like ours is that we are experienced it capturing the moment even in the more difficult of situations. You may find that your baby is settled at the studio anyway, we keep it nice and warm and the babies seem to love the comfy beanbag they are photographed on, but if your baby is unsettled you will still capture precious moment's, (with 15 years experience, that is something I am certainly sure of) and we are always mindful to be led by baby, and work with what they are most comfortable with, some babies like lieing on their side, some on their backs, we work with what works best for your baby. As for baby acne, again, don't worry about it, you may find it doesn't bother you in the photographs, and if it does, we can remove or reduce the redness of blemishes.
How much should I expect to pay for Newborn Photography?
Prices vary, but as a general guide, you should expect to be spending a 3 figure sum. The price you pay will depend on the products you choose, the experience of the photographer and the output quality of the equipment the photographer uses. Beware of give aways, if you are being offered a free photo shoot, with a free print, particular those which are won by entering a competition, (often everyone is a winner unbeknown to the winner!) you will likely find a high price to pay for additional photos. From our perspective, we offer a range of options to suit varying budgets from a print package for £150 to digitals from £395 and then some large multi session packages for those who also wish to capture the baby phase at 6 months and first birthday cake smash. We are transparent about the costs and the professional products we offer, we only supply products with standout quality. You can learn more about them here.
What happen's after the photo shoot?
Most photographers will have a system where by you arrange another time to come back to the studio to view a selection of the best images. Keep in mind that the photographer needs to prepare your images first, so usually this viewing session is schedule for around 2 weeks after your photo shoot. We have this system in place ourselves, you are invited back to the studio to see the best images showcased on the big screen (bring the popcorn if you like!) where you will then select your favourites and order your final products. Up to 4 weeks later you then collect your order.
So there you have it, some key information about newborn photography, if you have any other questions, feel free to comment below or send us an email.