If you’re planning out your newborn photo session, I’m sending you the biggest congrats on your family’s new addition. And I’m so glad you’re here to learn more about newborn photos and photo sessions!
I’ll go over some key things to remember as you prepare for your newborn session, like where it should be, what you might wear, and how you can prepare.
And if you like the photos in this article and you’re located in the Twin Cities, MN area, I’d love to chat with you about scheduling a newborn session!
Alright, let’s go.
When should you schedule your newborn session?
In general, most parents choose to get newborn photos taken within the first couple weeks of their baby’s life. Of course, there are always circumstances beyond our control that sometimes push them out further, and that’s okay, too.
But for the most part, you’ll want to chat with a photographer in your early-to-mid third trimester to get on the calendar for sometime just after your due date. Or sooner than that if you’re also looking at a maternity shoot!
Whenever your session is initially scheduled for, ensure that your photographer offers you flexible planning — you really never know how you’re going to feel or when baby will arrive!
Should you get newborn photos taken in your home?
As a newborn photographer, this is honestly the question I get asked the most often. You’re probably scrolling Pinterest or other newborn photos and marveling at the gorgeous shots of families in their own home.
But the thing is, if you want amazing in-home newborn photos, you have to be aware of your light source.
To have your session at home, you need:
- Natural light, ideally from a north or east-facing window
- Neutral-colored walls
- A large enough room, like a primary suite that’s about 20×20, especially if we want to set up equipment for more light
So if your baby’s nursery with one west-facing window and green walls isn’t going to cut it, unfortunately. The wall color can actually reflect on your baby’s face, making everything have a little bit of a green tinge.
We don’t want that!
Luckily, if your home doesn’t have an ideal photo-taking space, there are always studio options. I have a studio in the Minneapolis area, or we can always rent one if there’s a certain vibe you’re going for!
When in doubt, just ask your photographer if the space you want will work, and they should help you evaluate the best situation for you — that’s what we’re here for!
Or, if it’s warm enough (I’d say about 75+ degrees), we can find a beautiful spot for you outside. I have a whole list of outdoor spaces that would be awesome for a newborn session!
What should you wear for your newborn shoot?
Honestly, you should just wear whatever you feel the most comfortable and like yourself in. Your body has been through a lot…you just birthed a human! So don’t stress too much about your clothing.
If a dress feels the best to you, go for it. If your maternity leggings and a cute tunic are what do it for you, then go with that! If you like the look and feel of jeans, that’s cool, too. You do you.
As with any other session, I do have some general recommendations:
- Start with comfort and fit; if you’re not comfortable or we have to keep adjusting your outfit, you’ll be taken out of these beautiful moments with your family
- If you choose a pattern, subtle is always more effective and keeps the focus on you
- Neutrals and muted colors work best for the same reason as wall color matters; we don’t want the color of your clothing to show up on your skin!
- Choose an accent color that flows through everyone’s outfits for cohesion if you choose
- To shoe or not to shoe? Bare feet in the home or studio are typically comfy and intimate, but you can totally have socks or shoes if you want!
- And as always, ask your photographer if you’re between some options!
How to dress your newborn for newborn photos
For your baby, you’ll want a few different outfits (spit up and blowouts happen, know what I mean??). Some parents like minimal clothing, while others like dressing their little one in fluffy skirts or knit hats. It’s all up to you!
But here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Newborns are notoriously good at soiling outfits, so keep extras on hand
- Cute outfits are great but we want to focus on the baby in them, so keep them minimal and non-distracting
- Go for more neutral or muted colors, again, trying to avoid that color bleed onto the skin
- Pay attention to diaper coverage, if you don’t want it showing. If you’re going for a cute onesie, pants are a good option to cover up any stray diaper poking out.
In general, shoot for classy/classic. These photos will be around and treasured forever, so skip anything super trendy or over-the-top. This also makes your life easier, so it’s a win-win!
More newborn session tips
Here are a couple more tips for your newborn session:
- Feed and change your baby right before your session begins
- Give your baby a clean diaper right before your session begins
- A warm baby is a happy baby—try to keep the room at about 75 degrees or plan to swaddle them. Space and pad heaters work wonders in the winter!
- Keep a pacifier on hand, even if you don’t normally use one, in case we need extra soothing
- Bring or prepare any meaningful props or heirlooms you want to include
- If including siblings or pets in your photos, take those ones first while they’re more patient
- Don’t forget about yourselves! Make sure you’re fed and hydrated too. Having a friend or family member around can be nice as well for some extra hands.
That’s it! If you’re ready to talk about your newborn session, get in touch.
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