NEWBORN SESSION PREP GUIDE

WELCOME TO THE STUDIO

When you first arrive at the studio I will have a room provided as a family area where you all can cozy up and get comfortable on the studio couch. In this area you will find a TV and toys

for any little ones. I want you all to feel as comfortable as possible. You will be able to sit back, relax, catch up on your shows or movies, and even take a nap! Enjoy the alone time while you can, I've got baby!

SLEEPY BABY

The session flows best when we have a sleepy baby. So here are a few things that could help ensure that baby will sleep.

1. Please give baby a bath in the morning before coming in for your session. This will stimulate baby and help baby tire out. Lotioning your baby after the bath will also help with pressure points and relaxation. Allowing your baby to kick and be free for around 10-15 minutes will also help tire them out.

2. Dress baby in a zip up sleeper, or a button up.

NO undershirts please! We do not want any clothing to disturb a sleepy baby if we have to pull clothing over the baby's head.

3. Do not use white diaper cream, it is too hard to remove & usually upsets the baby due to the amount of wiping.

4. Before you leave the house for your session, Please FEED your newborn. This will allow baby to fall into a deep sleep while you are driving to the studio. Depending on how long your ride is baby may need topped off when you arrive. I generally like to start as soon as possible so that your preparations are not waisted.

BOTTLE

Some new babies struggle to get the hang of breastfeeding in the first few weeks OR they are cluster feeders. You are more than welcome to breastfeed or but if not I HIGHLY suggest you bring a bottle (2-3) of pumped milk in the event we need it. In any case bring extra bottles (2-3) to feed. If you need to bring your pump to be prepared you most certainly can. If at any point during babies photo session they become hungry it is much easier to give baby a bottle while they are already wrapped up and in position.

BREAST FEEDING

If you're breastfeeding, try to avoid anything spicy (i.e. Pizza, hot sauce, etc.) or anything that will cause gas and upset Baby's tummy for 48 hours proceeding your scheduled session. A gassy baby will not pose well during the session due to their little tummy being upset, causing them to cry and be inconsolable. Oval or grape water can be used to ease baby's discomfort prior to your session.

TIME FRAME

Typically us photographers will shoot a newborn between 5 and 15 days of life. That's not to say we haven't photographed babies that are a week older, but if you want the best opportunity to capture all those cute little poses, it's best to photograph your newborn between the 5th and 15th day mark. Newborns tend to be more more sleepy and flexible at this time! Every newborn session is completely different. In general, prepare to be here 3-4 hours. Please keep in mind, that not every baby sleeps easily so this time can vary.

I do not rush the baby, I value safety and make it my #1 priority! You should be prepared to hang out for a while since your Baby is...THE BOSS! Please be sure to bring yourself something to drink and snack on while you wait to help keep you relaxed and comfortable!

FAMILY + BABY

If you have chosen the Newborn + Family Package, I usually like to book families with other children on a separate day as it usually makes for a very long day on all of us if we try to mash it all together into one day. I want your session to be as calm, relaxed, and stress free as possible! I suggest as we get started with small children to please not bribe your child with any goodies or fun things after until it is a last resort. Please let me try all my tricks for little ones before we start making any promises. Trust me, I have my ways! BUT with that being said it is always a great plan to bring along their favorite (NON MESSY and small) snack as a back up and to maybe plan something fun or interesting for after your session as a last minute bribe IF NEEDED.

CLIENT CLOSET

I have a full client closet and you are more than welcome to take full advantage of! I have women's dresses in many colors ranging from sizes S - 4XL. I also have an outrageous amount of kids clothes in all sizes and colors, as well as a small amount of junior girls dresses and junior boys shirts all the way up to mens 2XL shirts. * I do not have boys or mens pants *

I suggest bringing a back up set of nice clothes to wear for photos if you do not find what you are looking for out of the client closet. No shoes please, bare-feet or neutral socks is the goal. Shoes tend it get in the way and I prefer to keep my floors clean for all tiny hands and toes. No need to bring anything for baby as I will put baby in one of the wraps or outfits I provide to match your outfits.

PHOTO REQUESTS

I supply all the backdrops, props, hats, headbands, outfits and wraps for the session. I am always up for new ideas, but be aware that I will not use anything that will harm, irritate or look awkward, or controversial on or with your newborn baby. If you see something you like in any of my galleries or if you plan on bringing in anything that you want added to photos please be sure to mention it BEFORE your session begins. I will need time prior to your arrival to prepare and set up for said requests. I am open to suggestions on poses that you may have seen from Pinterest or other media platforms, but please understand that every pose we do depends on how well baby cooperates and how safe the pose is for your little one.

I cannot guarantee any pose or requests but I will do my absolute best for you all!

If you have not already please be sure to select which color schemes you would like for your newborn setups. You can choose 2 color schemes. Make sure to send me which two and any other suggestions or requests prior to session.

VIEW COLOR SCHEME OPTIONS

CHECKLIST

Here is a checklist to help you when packing for your newborn's session:

- Pacifier, Extra Diapers, Wipes etc.

- Phone Charger

- Wear comfortable clothing to feel your most relaxed

- Bring socks or slippers as shoes are not allowed

- Although I do have a TV please bring something as a backup to keep you occupied. My internet at service at the studio are very finicky and scarce. Ex: Electronics, , books, or even your fav pillow to get a little power nap in!

- Bring yourself something to drink, lunch, and some snacks

- Bring Newborn in a zip-up or snap-up slipper

- Bring formula bottles (2-3) or pumped milk bottles (2-3)

- Bring your pump if need be to prevent gorging and keep up on milk supply if needed

I can't wait to get started creating the most beautiful setups, ones that will be perfect & unique just for your new little bundle of joy!

🤍

with love,Kaci