NEWBORN SESSION PREPARATION

Congratulations on the arrival of your new baby and thank you for choosing Kelly Miranda Photography to capture this special time for your family!

WHEN DO WE SHOOT?

Newborn sessions must be scheduled within the first 14 days of life. However, the BEST time is between 5-14 days after their arrival. In order to get those adorable, sleepy images we all desire, it’s best to do the session while your baby is still unaware and tired from birth. Plus, babies just tend to do a lot better with the session within their first 7 days. Around 8 days old, babies figure out that they can streeeeetch out and it’s more difficult to get them into those scrunchy newborn poses. After day 14, it’s almost impossible to get baby into that deep sleep that came so easily in their first few days. And, keep in mind that newborn acne (and sometimes colic) is likely to flare up after day 14. While I can edit problem areas, I prefer to do as little retouching as possible to baby’s skin..

HOW LONG IS THE SESSION?

The newborn session can take up to 3.5 hours so be sure to set aside enough time. We work at the pace of your baby and will take a lot of breaks for feeding, diaper changes, set changes, and getting baby comfortable and sleepy. Sit back and enjoy a snack and cup of tea while we work!

Tip: Do not schedule any other appointments on this day, especially no vaccines before photos as they can potentially make baby fussy. Give yourself space to rest and not feel rushed on this day and make it the only thing you have going on.

PREPARING FOR THE SESSION

WHAT TO BRING

There really isn’t much you need to bring to your session because I provide the wraps, hats, headbands, baby outfits, backdrops, and props. Here is a list below of what you need to bring to your newborn portrait session.

• extra wipes and diapers (baby may go more often during the session)

• extra formula or breast milk if you are bottle feeding (baby may eat more during the session)

• pacifier if you are ok with baby having one

• Optional: any special items you’d like me to incorporate into the photos

• parent outfits if you are doing family photos

PARENT OUTFITS
I will have the room in the studio heated to a warmer than normal temperature so be sure to wear something light and comfortable. Newborns cannot regulate their body temperature therefore we heat up the studio so your baby can be comfortable when we remove his or her clothing. If you are having your photo taken, bring a change of clothes so you can be comfortable for the rest of the session. For your picture outfits, I suggest neutral and earthy tones. Avoid logos or pictures on your clothing.

Keep in mind the backdrop color you selected on your scheduling form. If you chose a dark background, I recommend darker tone clothes, and if you chose a lighter background, choose lighter clothing.

I recommend bare feet or socks for these photos. It keeps the backdrops clean and looks cozy and comfy! If you do wear shoes, please make sure they are clean.

SIBLINGS
If you plan on having some sibling images done, we’ll do those first and then the older kids we be able to leave with Grandma, Dad or whoever can watch them. I suggest a fun outing to the park or ice cream shop with dad or grandparents after the session. It provides a good incentive and makes your older child feel special.

POOP HAPPENS!
I expect your baby to poop and pee on the blankets and props. It happens! I wash everything after each session, so don’t worry about it. I will always have some clean up items on hand so don’t stress.

PROPS AND BACKDROPS
I have a great selection of props, hats, headbands, bowties, blankets, baskets and backdrops to choose from. Please be sure to discuss your desires with me before the session and let me know of any special items of your own that you would like to use or something you have seen on my website that you want me to incorporate.

PACIFIERS
If you are comfortable with your baby having a pacifier, bring one to your session. Baby’s often love to suck and it helps soothe them into the poses we are looking for and makes for easier transitions and getting them to sleep. If your baby won’t take a pacifier or you do not feel comfortable offering one, that is perfectly ok. I can work with whatever is right for you and your family.