Hey Mamas! If you're looking to capture the perfect newborn photos, then you've come to the right place. Here in Cedar Falls, we have some of the most talented and experienced photographers ready to provide you with the best newborn photos around. But what should you expect when booking your newborn photo session? In this blog post, we'll provide you with tips about when to book your session and what to expect.
When to book your newborn photo session
Planning your newborn photos is an exciting time, and it's important to book your session at the right time to ensure the best results. The ideal time to capture those precious moments of your baby's first weeks of life is when baby is between two and three weeks old. During this time, your baby is still very sleepy and can easily be posed into those adorable curled-up positions that are so popular in newborn photography.
It's best to reach out to a newborn photographer as soon as possible to secure your spot. Many photographers book up quickly, so contacting them during your second trimester is recommended. This will give you ample time to discuss your vision for the session, ask any questions you may have, and secure your session on the photographer's calendar.
Keep in mind that babies rarely arrive exactly on their due dates, so flexibility is important when scheduling your session. Once your baby arrives, be sure to reach out to your chosen photographer as soon as possible to schedule your session within the recommended timeframe.
The importance of professional lighting, posing and editing
Capturing beautiful newborn photos requires a combination of skillful photography techniques, professional lighting, expert posing, and meticulous editing. An experienced professional photographer will understand the importance of these elements in creating stunning images that truly capture the essence of your baby's early days.
Professional lighting is crucial in newborn photography to ensure that your baby's features are properly highlighted and that every detail is beautifully illuminated. We have the knowledge and equipment to create the perfect lighting setup, enhancing the natural beauty of your little one and creating a soft and dreamy light.
Posing newborns requires expertise and a gentle touch. At Sweet Little You Photography, we are skilled in safely and comfortably positioning your baby to capture those adorable sleepy poses that are so sought after in newborn photography. We understand the delicacy of newborns and prioritize their comfort and safety throughout the session.
Once the photos are taken, we work our editing magic to ensure that each image is polished and timeless. We carefully retouch and enhance the photos you purchase, correcting any imperfections and accentuating the beauty of your baby. Our goal is to create images that will make you smile every time you look at them.
How to prepare for the session
To ensure that your newborn photo session goes smoothly and you get the most out of your experience, it's important to be prepared. Here are some tips on how to prepare for your session.
First and foremost, try to keep your schedule as normal as possible and don't stress. Babies are more likely to stay calm and relaxed if their mama is calm and relaxed, making it easier to pose them and capture those precious sleepy poses.
Pack a diaper bag with a few essentials for your babe during the session. If baby is formula fed, make sure to bring plenty for the duration of the shoot. Keep in mind, babies tend to eat more during photos because they're being handled more than they're used to. I always think of the newborn session as sort of a baby yoga session - it's kind of a workout for them. If you're a pumping mom, I would recommend bringing your pump along to the session in case your baby sleeps through a typical feeding time. My studio is also a breastfeeding-friendly zone, so don't hesitate to get comfy and nurse your babe during the session. I've been breastfeeding for almost 13 years now, so you will get no judgement from me!
Dress your baby in comfortable and easily removable clothing. It's best to avoid outfits with complicated buttons or snaps that can be difficult to remove before the session.
Lastly, if you have any personal items you'd like to incorporate into the session, give me a heads up beforehand so I have a plan for how to use it in the photos. This could be a special blanket, a family heirloom, or a sentimental item that holds meaning for you. I love incorporating personal touches into the session to make it truly unique and special.
What to wear for the session
When it comes to choosing what to wear for your newborn photo session, the goal is to keep the focus on your little bundle of joy. You want clothing that is comfortable, simple, and timeless, allowing your baby to shine in the spotlight.
I always recommend that my clients wear either all black or all white t-shirts for their newborn session. Simple, monochromatic outfits create a beautiful and serene backdrop for your baby's natural beauty. These neutral colors also tend to complement any skin tone, ensuring that your baby remains the center of attention in the photographs.
If you'd like to read more about what to wear for your newborn session and why, check out this blog post where we cover that topic more extensively.
What to expect during your session with Sweet Little You Photograhy
During your newborn photo session, you can expect a warm and welcoming environment where the focus is solely on capturing those precious moments of your baby's early days. We have a deep understanding of working with newborns and creating a comfortable and safe setting for your little one.
When you arrive at our studio, we'll invite you to make yourselves comfortable in the seating area near the entrance. Grab a water from the mini fridge and something to snack on, have a seat on the couch, and change the TV to whatever you want. If baby is hungry, you can go ahead and feed him/her before we begin the shoot.
Once the session begins, we'll handle your newborn with the utmost care and attention. We understand that babies can be unpredictable, so we allow plenty of time for feeding, changing and soothing to ensure your little one is comfortable and content throughout the session.
If you plan on doing family photos, we'll typically start with that. After we change your baby, we'll bring you all to the shooting area for those poses.
After we finish the family pose portion of your newborn photos, you can relax in the seating area for the remainder of the session. Watch TV, take a nap, etc. You can rest assured - your babe is in good hands. The entire newborn session typically takes between 2 and 3 hours. If your baby needs to stop and feed at any time during the session, we'll bring him/her back to you to feed before continuing.
Choosing the right studio for your newborn photos in the Cedar Falls area
When it comes to choosing the right photographer for your newborn photo session, it's important to find someone who not only has the technical skills and expertise but also shares your vision. In Cedar Falls, we are fortunate to have a community of talented and experienced photographers who specialize in newborn photography. Even if you don't choose Sweet Little You Photography, there are several local professionals to fit your needs.
One of the first steps in choosing the right photographer is to do your research. Take the time to browse through photographers' portfolios, read reviews from past clients, and get a sense of their style and approach. Look for photographers who have a strong portfolio in newborn photography and whose style aligns with your preferences. Do you prefer a more posed and studio-like session or a more natural and lifestyle approach? Consider what type of images resonate with you and what you envision for your own session.
Next, reach out and connect with potential photographers. Schedule a consultation to discuss your vision, ask any questions you may have, and get a sense of their personality and professionalism. It's important to choose a photographer who not only has the technical skills but also makes you feel comfortable and at ease. Communication and trust are key in creating a successful and enjoyable experience.
Finally, consider your budget. Newborn photography is an investment, and prices can vary among photographers. While it's important to find a photographer within your budget, remember that quality and experience are worth it especially when it comes to your newborn's safety. Investing in a skilled photographer who can capture those precious moments of your baby's early days is something you won't regret.
I know my studio isn't going to be the perfect fit for everyone, and that's okay! I'd rather you find a photographer who will fit your needs best than to try to fit a square peg in a round hole. Here's a short list of local photographers I would recommend to photograph your newborn depending on your style preference:
Clean, bright, posed and styled, monochromatic:
Sweet Little You of course! Just click on the contact link in our menu to inquire (you know I had to list us first)
Boho, lifestyle, moody, playful:
Nicole Harnois Photography (Bonus: she's one of the funniest humans I know)
Boho, lifestyle, moody, trendy, styled:
Colorful, posed, vibrant:
Light and airy, refined, lifestyle, neutral:
Clean, bright, elaborately themed props and backdrops:
Posed, moody, rustic, trendy:
Clean, bright, in-home newborn sessions:
Ready to book your newborn session with Sweet Little You?
Click the link here if you're interested in scheduling your baby's first photos at our Cedar Falls studio! Even if you're still weighing your options, we'd love to send you some more info on our services.