
Preparing for your newborn photoshoot
If you are preparing for your newborn photoshoot you may well have some questions. If you haven’t booked a photographer before it can feel overwhelming so here I have answered the most common questions that people have before their newborn photoshoot.
WHEN SHOULD I BOOK MY NEWBORN PHOTOSHOOT?
Ideally you want to book your due date into my diary in advance. Capturing your newborn within the first two weeks of life while they are still sleepy and curled up, can make all the difference in your newborn portraits.
I only book a limited number of due dates into my diary each month. This means that whether baby arrives early or late you will have multiple dates to choose from for your newborn photoshoot.
If you haven’t booked in advance please do not worry! I may still be able to fit you in so please get in touch to check my current availability for newborn photoshoots.
IS ONE WEEK TOO EARLY FOR MY NEWBORN PHOTOSHOOT?
Absolutely not! Newborn babies photograph best between 6-10 days old. At this point they are still very sleepy and like to curl up as if they were still in the womb. We take around two to three hours for a newborn photoshoot and leave plenty of time for feeding, nappy changes and cuddles. Come as soon as you are ready. We can’t wait to meet your newborn!
WHAT SHOULD BABY WEAR FOR THEIR NEWBORN PHOTOSHOOT?
Newborns photograph best without any clothes at all. I also love to photograph newborns swaddled in blankets with lots of texture and snuggled up tight in bowls and baskets, so if you have a special blanket or two bring them. I have an extensive supply of newborn hats, wraps and headbands that coordinate beautifully with our blankets and props that I will use to style your images. Baby’s modesty will of course be protected in all images. I encourage clients to bring special, personal items which make the session and images especially meaningful.
If you prefer for baby to not be naked I have a selection of specially made newborn outfits to shoose from. These have been made especially for use in a newborn photoshoot and allow baby to be posed comfortably.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR MY NEWBORN PHOTOSHOOT?
We recommend that you bring baby to the newborn photoshoot well rested and plan to feed baby on arrival. Sleepy babies photograph perfectly, so we will ask you to undress and swaddle baby before the feeding so as to not disturb them by undressing them after they have fed. We take several breaks for feeding baby during the newborn photoshoot to ensure that baby is happy and has a full tummy. We ask that you not be too concerned with scheduled feedings during the session and that you feed baby on demand or when they get a bit fussy to ensure their comfort and a smooth session. You will be sent a preparation guide and in advance of your newborn photoshoot so you will know all of the things we recommend to have the best chance of achieving those gorgeous sleepy curly poses.
CAN I BE PHOTOGRAPHED WITH MY BABY?
CAN I CHOOSE THE STYLING OF MY NEWBORN PHOTOSHOOT?
Absolutely! We will chat about your preferred props, colours and poses. While no poses can be 100% guaranteed it can be very helpful to get an idea of which of my images you were drawn to when choosing your newborn photographer. You can see my most recent work on my instagram page here.
CAN I BRING MY OTHER KIDS TO THE NEWBORN SESSION?
Frequently Asked Questions – General
WHAT IF SOMEONE GETS SICK?
DO YOU OFFER MATERNITY PHOTOSHOOTS?
Yes we do! Pregnancy is such a beautiful and exciting time for couples and what better way to remember this time than to capture beautiful images! Mums-to-be who choose to have a maternity photo shoot love to celebrate this magical time and the changes to their body.
It is advisable to book in for when you are between 32 and 36 weeks pregnant. Most people book their maternity photoshoot after their 20 week scan. You can also book their newborn photoshoot at this time. If you are expecting twins or multiples we may schedule your maternity photoshoot slightly earlier to ensure you feel comfortable throughout.
For location sessions bright colours and layers work especially well. For in studio a simple vest top and maternity jeans or maxi dress look beautiful along with anything that helps to accentuate your beautiful bump! I can also advise on implied nude maternity posing for stunning fine art pregnancy portraits. I have a selection of maternity gowns and fabrics at the studio to choose from. I want to make sure you look and feel as fabulous as possible! We can also arrange for a make up artist to come to the studio to help you look and feel your most beautiful for these once in a lifetime portraits.
For more information and to view examples of my maternity photos click here.
DO YOU PHOTOGRAPH OLDER CHILDREN?
WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS TERRIBLE?
CAN I PAY BY CREDIT CARD?
Yes we accept all major credit and debit cards in the studio including American Express and from non UK banks. No card fee will be charged regardless of the kind of card you pay with.
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If you’d like to arrange a chat with Rachael
Please let me know when would be best for me to give you a call. I can answer any questions you have and you can find out if I am the right photographer for you.