How to Prepare for Your Los Angeles Newborn Photo Session: A Guide to Cherishing Every Last Detail
Newborn photography is such a unique and special way to capture the fleeting moments of a baby’s first days. As a fine art newborn photographer, my goal is to create timeless portraits of your little one that capture all their precious details – from those tiny fingers and toes to the way they curl up in your arms. For parents, preparing for a newborn photo session can feel like one more thing on the list. But with a few simple tips, you’ll be all set for a stress-free and enjoyable experience. Here’s a guide to help you feel prepared, relaxed, and excited about your newborn photos session in Los Angeles!
Book Early
Newborn sessions are best done in the first two weeks after birth. Ideally, it takes place when your baby is between 5 and 12 days old. During this time, babies are sleepier and more naturally inclined to curl up into those cute womb-like poses. As a Los Angeles newborn photographer, sessions are often booked weeks, even months, in advance. It’s a good idea to reserve your session as early as your second trimester. Then, we’ll adjust your actual session date once your baby arrives, ensuring that perfect window!
Decide on a Style
Every photographer has their own unique style. Take a look at portfolios, especially mine, to get a sense of the type of images we’ll create together. Do you prefer a natural, minimalist look? Or do you love more elaborate setups with props, textured blankets, and backdrops? Knowing your style preferences helps me plan and tailor the bring your vision to life. For fine art newborn photography, I often blend both posed and lifestyle shots. This gives you a mix of intimate family portraits and detailed images of your baby on their own.
Keep Baby Comfortable and Safe
For posed newborn photography, a sleepy baby helps achieve those serene and curled-up poses. Feed baby right before the session. A full belly is one of the best ways to ensure a sleepy baby. Feeding right before you arrive at the session can help them drift off to sleep. We will look for early signs that baby needs to feed, such as sucking on fists or lip smacking. Keep baby awake beforehand. If possible, keep baby awake for a little while before the session. A bath. gentle playtime, or just chatting to them can help tire them out, making them more likely to sleep soundly during their photo session. For the first few weeks, babies get sponge baths. Then, after the umbilical cord stump falls off and the circumcision heals (if your baby was circumcised), babies can have baths in a sink or small tub according to Nemours Children’s Health. Dress baby in loose clothing. Try dressing your baby in something simple to make undressing easier without waking them up. A loose onesie or zip-up sleeper works well and keeps clothing marks from appearing on their skin.
Choose Clothing for Yourself and Family
Newborn session often include photos of parents and siblings. It’s helpful to think ahead about what everyone will wear. Choose soft, neutral colors. Whites, creams, and earth tones blend beautifully with newborns and help them stand out in the images. Avoid busy patterns, logos, or bright colors that might distract from your baby. You’ll be holding your baby close, snuggling, and sitting in various positions, so wear something comfortable.
Be Ready to Be Patient
Newborn sessions can last between two – and four hours., depending on your baby’s needs and the style of the shoot. If your little one needs to be fed, cuddled, or changed, we’ll take the time. I’m experienced in soothing and comforting newborns. The session will move at a pace that’s comfortable and relaxed for everyone.
Bring Essentials and Extras
While I provide the props and wraps for newborn photography, there are other useful things to bring. Newborns are unpredictable, so have extra diapers and wipes. A pacifier is good to bring, even if you don’t plan on using one in the future. It can be useful in helping them calm. If there’s a specific swaddle or heirloom blanket you’d like to include, let me know! Personal items can add a lovely, meaningful touch to the images.
Los Angeles Newborn Photo Session
The arrival of a new baby brings such joy! Capturing those first moments is a gift for years to come. Preparing for your Los Angeles newborn session with these simple steps will help you feel ready and relaxed. If you have any specific questions or want to talk more about how to prepare, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to make this experience as seamless and meaningful as possible. Enjoy these precious moments, and I can’t wait to create beautiful memories with you and your newborn!
If you’re looking for a photographer who will help you make the newborn stage last, we should chat! I’m a Los Angeles newborn photographer who specializes in newborn and maternity pictures. I would love to connect with you so you can learn about what sets my process apart! Contact me today to find out more.
10 Los Angels Baby Stores with Unique Products and Great Service
