NEWBORN SESSION TIPS

• If You Are Planning On Circumcising: It is required to schedule that appointment either after your session with me, or at least 5 FULL days prior. Because I do a lot of wrapping, unwrapping, moving and posing, a fresh circumcision can easily become irritated, (even with the soft blankets) and will be highly uncomfortable which can lead to a very unhappy baby who is unable to be photographed. If baby arrives with a fresh circumcision, we will need to reschedule your session for their safety and comfort.

• Please Do Not Schedule Baby's Doctor Appointments on the same morning as your session. A baby who just had their shots is not able to be photographed well, and will need extra comfort that day.

• If You Are Breast-Feeding: Try to avoid spicy foods/caffeine for the 24 hours before your session. (Avoid Caffeine just that morning) Even the tiniest bit of caffeine can keep baby awake your entire session.

• Try To Keep Baby Awake And Alert for the hour before your session. (We want them nice and sleepy when you get here!) For babies over 14 days, this recommendation becomes more important as older newborns can be awake for longer stretches of time. If you are within a half hour drive of my home, I will have you feed baby right before leaving. That will ensure they are sleepy as soon as you get here, and we can get started right away. If you are coming from Portland or have an hour+ drive, I will have you plan on feeding baby as soon as you arrive. 

• Plan On Frequent Feedings during your session. (especially if you are breast feeding) I do have an outlet if you need to pump while you are here. I also have a keurig that you can use for hot water for warming up formula etc.

• Studio Will Be Warm. so just be prepared for that. This is because at that age, newborns are unable to regulate their own body temperature, and so we keep it nice and warm to keep them comfortable during their session. Most of the heat will be on me and baby, but it’s nice to know in advance!

• Bring Lots Of Extra Wipes And Diapers! We may go through quite a few during your session. I also have some available in studio if you forget. No problem!

• Pacifiers Are A Great Tool to bring to your session EVEN if you aren't planning on using one long term. It really helps to calm baby down once they are in position, allowing me to get them settled and get those sweet images quicker and you back home faster. Sometimes baby just needs a little comfort and does not actually need to eat, and I am experienced in knowing when that moment is. If baby is actually hungry, I will know and will hand them to mom!

• Parent Photos: You will have the option for lifestyle type images, or more studio backdrop type images. See examples on my What to Expect Page. Parent images & Siblings will be done right in the beginning of your session so that you can relax the rest of the time.

• Sibling images will be done by having them lay on a cream flokati or on my lifestyle bed setup. Depending on their age and capabilities holding baby etc. It is best to practice this pose before your session if possible by having them lay down on your bed at home, and tuck baby in next to them. See HERE for tips a successful Sibling Image! Also, as mentioned sibling images will be done in the beginning, and then I always request to have them take off with an adult while we finish up session with just baby. This allows me to focus on your sweet baby, and not your toddler jumping off my couch :) (I have twin toddlers, I know!)

OTHER QUESTIONS NOT LISTED?

PLEASE ASK ME!

I am always happy to help, and I want parents to feel comfortable, well informed and excited for their time with me. Looking forward to meeting your darling baby!

~ LIndsay