How do I prepare for your newborn photography session????? When do I need to schedule my newborn session??? What do I need to bring??? Do you have props??? What do we wear??? These are just a few of the questions that I answer on the daily. So, I decided to blog about it. I hope that I am able to address all of your questions and fill in the blanks...  Grab a glass of sweet tea, and a blank this one will be a long post, but I hope very helpful! 

Welcome to the parenthood club!!!! 

First things first... Photographing your newborn is a must! No questions asked. Not because it is the trent but its because these moments go by so fast and lets face it, we are sleep deprived before birth and after it feels like times five, so does your memory of how tiny those little fingers and toes are. 

I am asked so often when is the perfect time to do those cute poses... My answer is Schedule your newborn photos ASAP! I always do my best to leave one day open a week for those surprise full moon babies that like to come early, but sometimes I have to squeeze them in, if I am able to. However, the best time to photograph a newborn falls between 7 to 15 "days" after birth. Babies are easier to pose and curl up into those adorable positions durning this time. Yes, I know sometimes its hard to pin point a date but we do our best to get you in a close as we can. Make sure to have someone other then yourself to reach out to let me or your photographer know that you have had that sweet little one within 24 hours so that we can schedule a time and date in stone, incase changes need to be made. This way you won't miss a moment of that first bonding time with your baby. 

Next up, Do you have a vision of your portraits or ideas that you have seen on my page? Know what types of newborn photos you love and might want such as colors, theme or even props that you would like to be used during your session. If you're not sure, just tell me! Ill be glad to send you some ideas or brain storm for new things. I love shooting new ideas. When we are able to to collaborate and carefully incorporate the perfect outfits and unique details into your session ahead of time there isn't any time for stress. Open communication is the key! I have no idea of the colors or styles you like unless you tell or show me. Let me know what you are looking for, even the style rustic, classic, full length, close-ups, posing, props, headbands and even wrap colors. Just talk to me! 

I have a 2,400 square foot studio in Mendenhall, Mississippi. I also have ton's of outside props for those awesome outside sessions. Tons of buckets, baskets, beds, wraps, newborn outfits, and endless of ideas. 

Third, Embrace the Exhaustion. As crazy as it may sound mentally prepare your self to feel sleep deprived especially during the first few weeks. But don't worry! This is why we are going to prepare early and also why you hire a professional photographer, right? During your shoot I will handle all posing, props and many cases will even do the baby's wardrobe/wrap changes. All you have to do is relax! (catch a few minutes of shuteye no judging here!) Oh, and provide the milk, of course. 

and finally here is what I always send to my clients so that they know each step and details. Before, durning and after their session. 

I am so excited to meet your new arrival soon. I have you scheduled for blah blah date.  Here is some additional information that I hope will be helpful as you prepare for your newborn portrait session.

{what to bring} If you'd like to add family pictures (which I encourage you to) please wear solid colors. cream, white, black, blue, and gray looks great. Don't stress these images are taken waste up unless you would like full body or different angles. Since your fingers and hands will be a part of this photography make sure your nails are clean. As for baby's wardrobe... bare skin or wrap is best! Which I have tons of so don't worry about that. Bring any comfort items your baby may need including diapers, wipes, a warm blanket, swaddle blankets, a Binky, and a (2) bottle with formula or breast-milk.

{How to prepare} Keep baby awake for an hour or two before the session. Give him/her a bath. Dress him in something easy to get off like zip up or snap front pajamas, stay away from anything we have to take off over their head. Feed baby RIGHT before you leave the house and make sure he has a nice full belly. (if you live far away please try and wait to feed him when you arrive)  Please bring two extra bottles with formula or pumped milk (its quicker than nursing and is helpful when baby is already in position and needs just a few swallows to calm down, but not a full feeding, this is not mandatory but highly recommended). Also try and avoid any foods that will make them gassy.  **PLEASE bring a pacifier even if you aren't using one, this can make a huge difference. Once you arrive, baby should be good and sleepy in her car seat. We will take her out and get started right away. The room will be set between 80-90 degrees for baby so you may want to dress lightly. Make sure YOU eat as well. If you need to bring a snack please do I will have a few snacks available but this could take a few hours and I want you to be prepared. 

{Pricing Information}

The session fee for all sessions is 150.00 and does not include any digital files prints or products. It simply helps take care of the many props, my time and talent. There is NO required minimum amount that you have to spend. Prints begin at 10.00 and collections begin at 850.00. We can surely build your collections to fit just what you need or add to what we have already created. Our custom albums are simply breath taking with tons of options. Make sure to see those while you visit the studio. 

After your session we will schedule you a time to come back and view you amazing images. With a custom slide show. I will guide you through what each product we have to offer from gift prints to amazing wall portraits and breath taking fine art canvases. At that time you will have the opportunity to place your order.

Most of the time my clients are prepared to invest between 650 to 1,500, on wall portraits, digital files and customized albums.  

All prices are subject to 7% sales tax.

I am honored that you have chosen me to photograph your new born baby, and capture all of his precious little details. I know being a new parent is daunting and totally understand that sometimes it is easy to be running a little late. That's not a problem, just please understand that I only have an allotted time for each session. The studio cell phone number is 601-832-4225 incase you need me call or text. I am soooo excited and can't wait to see ya'll! 

Studio address 156 L & B Stuart Dr Mendenhall Ms. 39114

Most importantly! RELAX!!!!

Don't stress! That is why you hired me as your professional photographer. I have lots of tricks up my sleeve and plenty of experience. SO kick up your feet (those poor swollen things), and relax. Trust me! 

Tell me... Does this blog help? Does this answer any questions you might have had?