Sturbridge, Massachusetts Newborn Photographer | How to prepare for a successful newborn session

You’re in a new and exciting time in your life. You’ve now got this adorable, precious little soul and are ready to document his or her first memories in photographs. I want to make this a joyous experience for you and your family. I know how nerve-racking picture day can be, especially when you’re running on little-, to -no, sleep. To help you out with this process, I’ve compiled a list of preparation tips to ease some of your stress. If you have any questions at all, feel free to contact me at jaimecaitlynphoto@gmail.com and I will get you the answers you’re looking for.

What to Bring

If I am are doing a session in your home, you don’t have to bring anything. However, I suggest that you take a look at this list and have these items readily available in case I need them during your session. If you are doing a studio session, please follow this checklist to avoid under or over packing your diaper bag.

I try to keep our sessions pretty basic and focused in on your new little bundle of joy. and therefore take a minimalistic approach to prop usage. Especially if I am traveling to you, I do not bring a lot of props with me. I will take care of the backdrops and headbands, etc., but I tend to pack light prop-wise. If there is something you’d like to include in your photos – a special outfit or blanket, a favorite stuffed animal or toy, heirlooms, etc. –, I will be more than happy to incorporate it in your session. The more personal items I use in your session, the more unique these photos will be to your child and your family’s personality.

To ensure that your baby is happy and calm during the session, I suggest bringing a blanket that you can swaddle him or her in, as well as a pacifier. Also be sure to have fresh bottles (if your child is currently using a bottle ) and diapers ready to go.

What to Wear

Newborns are not very patient when it comes to outfit changes. I suggest dressing having your child in an outfit you’d like him or her to wear for the photos before you get to the session, covering the outfit with a bib or burp rag in case of little incidents. After I take a few photos in this outfit, I prefer to take the rest of the photos in just the diaper –, or completely in the nude. In my opinion, babies photograph best this way and they will also cooperate longer if we are not constantly changing their outfits. If you are not comfortable with this, I can stick with one to two outfits for the session.

If you are going to be in photos with your child, I suggest bringing a backup shirt, just in case. I also suggest that you wear a white or black shirt in case we need to photograph parts of you with your child on the backdrop (for example, just your hands holding the baby) so you don’t stand out. For mommies, we suggest keeping jewelry to a minimum, as babies like to grab ahold of these items.

If you have any wardrobe questions, please contact us. I will be more than happy to help. Thanks for reading and I look forward to your session!