How to Prepare for Lifestyle Newborn Photos
Lifestyle newborn photography captures natural, candid moments in your home, focusing on the beauty of your everyday life with your new baby. Here’s how to prepare for a successful and stress-free session.
1. Schedule the Session at the Right Time
Book Early: Schedule your session within the first 1-2 weeks after birth, when your baby is still sleepy and easy to position.
Choose the Best Time of Day: Plan the shoot for a time when your baby is usually calm and well-rested, such as in the morning. ( babies have a 30 min wake window)
I know this can be tough for mom if healing and resting, but it doesn’t get easier during the first 3 months, so just go for it!
2. Create the Perfect Environment
Maximize Natural Light: Ensure the rooms where the photos will be taken have plenty of natural light. Open all curtains and blinds to let in as much light as possible. keep lights off
Tidy Key Spaces: Focus on decluttering areas like the nursery, living room, or bedroom. Keep these spaces clean and simple to avoid distractions in your photos.
3. Plan Outfits Carefully
Dress the Baby in Simple Clothing: Opt for soft, neutral tones or pastels, avoiding bold patterns or logos. A simple white onesie can work wonders.
Coordinate Parent Outfits: Choose outfits in neutral tones that complement each other without overpowering the photos. Avoid bright colors or heavy patterns.
Prepare Backup Outfits: Have extra clothing ready for both the baby and parents in case of spills or accidents.
4. Choose Meaningful Props and Details ( not a must just a can)
Include Favorite Blankets or Swaddles: Use a special blanket, swaddle, or stuffed animal that adds a personal touch to the photos.
Incorporate Heirlooms: Include items like a handmade blanket, family jewelry, or a sentimental toy to make the session more meaningful.
Keep Props Minimal: The focus should remain on your baby and family interactions, so avoid overloading the scene with props.
5. Ensure the Baby’s Comfort
Feed and Change the Baby Beforehand: Make sure your baby is well-fed and has a clean diaper before the session starts. see blog about newborn photoshoot timeline
Keep the Room Warm: Ensure the room is warm and cozy, especially if the baby will be undressed or swaddled during the shoot.
Have Soothing Items Ready: Keep a pacifier and burp cloths on hand to comfort the baby between shots.
6. Relax and Prepare Yourselves
Stay Calm and Relaxed: Babies are sensitive to stress, so it’s important for parents to stay calm and go with the flow.
Allow Plenty of Time: Newborn sessions can take longer due to feeding, changing, or soothing breaks, so be patient and flexible.
7. Prepare Siblings and Pets
Get Siblings Involved: Prepare older siblings by explaining what will happen during the session and involve them in the process. Have activities or snacks ready to keep them occupied. Sometimes have a friend or grandparent around to help is a great addition, if you have multiple children.
Include Pets Thoughtfully: If you want to include pets in your photos, ensure they are calm and well-behaved. Arrange for someone to manage them when they’re not in photos.
8. Communicate with Your Photographer
Share Your Vision: Discuss your ideas, preferences, and must-have shots with your photographer beforehand.
Be Open to Suggestions: Trust your photographer’s expertise in guiding you based on lighting, space, and the baby’s mood.
9. Stay Hydrated and Nourished
Take Care of Yourselves: Keep snacks and water handy for yourselves during the session, as it can be a long process and you’ll want to stay energized.
By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to capture beautiful, candid moments with your newborn, creating lasting memories of this precious time.