So when you’re booked your newborn photo shoot, that’s one item ticked off the ‘new baby’ checklist. So there are a few things that you can do to get ready for your shoot both in advance and on the day.

If I’m being entirely honest, all the preparations in the world can be easily overthrown by a 6 day old baby. All of this is simply to tip the odds in our favour as much as possible.

It’s a good idea to take a little look through my portfolio or blogs to see the kind of images you like if you don’t already have a clear idea.  That way you have time to get any outfits or props you want to include ahead of time.

***You don’t have to bring stuff with you.  I have plenty of blankets, props and accessories that you’re welcome to use.  This is just if you want to ***

If there are things you want to bring along, then you can start to put them aside so they’re all in one place ready for you to grab as you leave for the studio. That just makes for less searching around and hunting for stuff on the morning of your shoot.

Before you come, it’s a good idea to try and keep your baby awake for an hour or so in order that they are tired for their shoot.  A lot of photographers seem to recommend two hours but not only is that quite tricky, you also start to run the risk of them getting into an over-tired state which is hard to back out of. They will most likely fall asleep in the car and that doesn’t matter. King Canute could not keep a sleepy baby awake in the car any more than keep the waters from the shore!

Feeding – this is a bit location dependent.   Feeding them before you leave is a great idea if you are less than 40 minutes away from my studio in Crawley Down.  If you’re much further than that, then feed them when you get to me.  You don’t need to arrive early to do this; we allow plenty of time during the session for feeding. Babies sleep best on a full tummy as I’m sure you know.

When you’re dressing your little one to come out, then it really helps me out if you don’t use too many layers. Instead, if you’re comfortable with this, use just one layer and then add blankets to keep them warm on the short journey from the car to my studio. It’s a tricky thing to get a baby undressed without disturbing them especially if things need to go over their head and so a poppered up onesie would be my preference.  One layer, easy to get off and minimal baby sleep disruption.

On the subject of dressing, my studio will be ‘baby temperature’ which is pretty warm so you might want to wear layers so you can stay nice and cool while we get your photos.

If you want family photos (you’re welcome to but it’s not obligatory) then plain tops for you are best and preferably long sleeved.  Pictures of your with your new arrival will focus on having your faces close together so you only really need to worry about your top half.  Wear your PJ trousers if you want – no judgement here.

Other things that you might want to bring along are drinks, snacks, hairbrush and makeup if you wear it and you’re getting in pictures there’s a big mirror in the changing room so you can get ready here when it’s time. I want you to be as relaxed and comfortable as possible for your session.  Basically you just need to get here and chill out on my massive sofa while we take pictures.

Any questions about your newborn shoot, then you’re welcome to get in touch – I’m always happy to help.