Those newborn days can feel like some of the longest days of your life, am I right? Yet the weeks fly by in a haze of love, tiredness and you simply trying to figure it all out. Then, in the blink of an eye, you’ve got a running, talking, fully-fledged little human in your midst, and you suddenly find yourself longing for just one more of those exquisite newborn snuggles.
That’s why so many families choose to book a newborn photography session after their baby is born. It’s the closest thing we’ve got to pressing pause. Capturing one of the most life-changing seasons of your life lets you preserve that tiny newborn squishiness forever.
But, the one question I’m asked most often as a Wānaka newborn photographer is, “What do we need to do to prepare?”
The good news is….
Not much at all.
Because I know you’re busy surviving on broken sleep, cuddles and whatever food happens to be in the cupboard. So, the last thing you need is another to-do list.
Whether your newborn shoot is in my Lake Hāwea studio or at your home in Wānaka or Queenstown, my job is to make the session feel relaxed, unhurried and, most definitely, joyful. Think of it as a chance for you to soak up your baby while I quietly document the beginning of this new chapter.
That being said, there are just a few simple things I’d recommend before and during your newborn photography session.
Timing is everything
If possible, I suggest you book your newborn photography session within the first three weeks after your baby is born. At this age, babies are often still wonderfully sleepy and naturally curl into those gorgeous newborn positions.
I always leave space in my diary for these little snuggle sessions, so get in touch once your baby arrives and we’ll find a time that works.
That said, don’t panic if life has other plans. Babies don’t read the rule book, and beautiful photographs happen at every age. They all have their own kind of magic.
Keep things cosy
Whether we’re doing your newborn shoot at your home or in my studio, I simply ask that we keep the room nice and warm.
A cosy room helps babies feel settled and is much more likely to encourage those lovely sleepy moments. Which makes for some really cute images.
Don’t worry about sticking to a schedule
One of my favourite things about newborn sessions is that they run entirely on baby time.
If you can, feeding your little one before the session begins is something I definitely recommend, but equally don’t stress if they’re hungry again five minutes later.
Need to stop for another feed? Perfect.
Need a cuddle? Absolutely.
Need ten minutes because a little someone has decided today just isn’t the day they want to have their picture taken? We’ve all been there.
There is never any rush. In fact, some of my favourite photographs are taken in those quiet moments between everything else.
Simple is always beautiful
Soft, neutral clothing photographs beautifully because it keeps the focus where it belongs, which is on your baby and the connection between you.
I have a collection of beautiful knitted newborn outfits and flattering dresses for mum that you’re welcome to use during your session, so there’s no pressure to go out and buy something special for the occasion. You can check out my client wardrobe here.
The only thing I’d ask of you…
Leave expectations of perfection at the door. It’s not what newborn photograph sessions are about, and anyways, babies have a wonderful way of keeping us humble in that respect.
Your baby doesn’t need to sleep the whole time. Older siblings don’t need to sit still for an hour. Your home doesn’t need to look like a magazine.
Real life photographs better. Trust me.
Years from now, you won’t be looking back to see whether the blanket was folded perfectly. You’ll be looking at the way your baby’s tiny fingers wrapped around yours, the way they fit perfectly into your arms, and the look on your face when you couldn’t quite believe they were finally here.
And this is why these moments are so worth capturing.
Get in touch to book your newborn session now. And do me a favour… don’t tell anyone but they are secretly my favourite!
Book here!
