A lifestyle newborn session is the perfect way to capture those first sweet moments with a new baby. It gives families a way to look back on this precious time with their newborn and relive those first snuggles and all the emotions and love that surround them. You will receive gentle guidance and we will include some formal poses, but I love to let the session unfold naturally. Just be yourselves and all will be great!
How to Prep Your Space:
Preparing for your lifestyle newborn session should not be stressful. Your home does not have to be perfect, I promise! Do not worry about your house being a mess- you just had a baby! You don’t need to hire a professional cleaning company before your session, or redecorate the living room. I am there to focus on your family, the cuddles, and the moments with your new baby. Do what you can to remove items you do not want in the pictures, only from the rooms we will be shooting in. If anything else needs to be moved we can easily do that together when I get there. We tend to spend most of our time in the nursery (if you have one), master bedroom, and possibly on a couch. We will look for places you love and those with great window light. A bed made with a neutral quilt/comforter is a perfect spot.
Prepping for great Light:
Window Light is key, we will choose to use areas of the house with the best light. Please open curtains and blinds to let in as much light as possible. We will most likely be turning off all the lamps and indoor lighting.
Warm it Up:
Crank the heat! (Or turn down/off the air conditioning) This is super helpful for relaxing your baby. Cold babies are more likely to be awake and upset. We may have baby in a thin wrap or onesie, so extra warmth makes baby toasty and comfortable.
Loosen Baby’s Clothing:
About 30 minutes before our session or before baby naps, loosen the diaper to allow time for diaper imprints to disappear in case we take some photos without. Also, remove any tight clothing that may leave marks on baby’s skin. You can swaddle baby in a warm blanket till I arrive, or dress in a onesie.
Gather Personal Items:
I always bring along some neutral blankets and wraps. Typically less is more with lifestyle sessions. I will bring posing pillows and a couple onesies, hats, headbands in case we decide they are needed. However, I ask that you pull out some things that you love before I arrive. Any special items like blankets, stuffed animals, outfits, etc. I always think it is special to use personal items, even if it is just a wrap that you love. We will go through everything together and decide what’s best to use.
Scheduling for the Day:
Sessions typically take 1.5-2.5 hours. Please plan for this much time. I will block off the morning for your family so that you never have to feel rushed. Baby and siblings are in charge so I like to be flexible and allow for any needed breaks and feedings. It is helpful to keep baby awake in the morning as much as possible and then feed right before we start if possible. However, lifestyle sessions are laid back so keep this in mind! It is totally okay for baby to be awake for part or even all of the session.
Along with these tips for preparing for your Lifestyle Newborn Session, feel free to check out my blog on What to Wear for your Lifestyle Newborn Session. If you are looking to schedule a newborn session you can find out more about Why I Love Lifestyle Newborn Sessions or reach out to schedule a session here.
