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Your Newborn Session My Client Prep Guide

First of all, if you're reading this, you're most likely exhausted, anxious and in love. Congratulations Mama, you're amazing. There is nothing I want more from you, than to be totally engrossed in your squeaky, wrinkly precious newborn, soaking in every scent, every cry, and every move from that wonderfully perfect human you just made. Seriously, you're incredible.

Tip #1 - Dress for comfort. Dress low key either in color or pattern. Husbands, a V-neck t-shirt or henley. Avoid plaids or shirts with logos. And mama's, leggings with a cosy sweater or shirt that you can easily nurse in, or a loose fitting dress! I love easy earth tones that vibe with the colors in your house. But honestly, whatever is most comfortable.

If you're planning on a Hospital first 48 session- same rules apply! And if all else fails, black t-shirt or black tank will do the job perfectly. (Just don't forget to throw the outfit in your hospital bag!)

Tip #2 - Clear areas by large windows. (If you can!) I will find the best light in the house, and if possible shoot by it. Think sliding glass doors, or big bay windows. If you have these in your house, most chances are I'll use them for a portion of your in home session. Clear the area of clutter, if possible. And please, if you've just had a c-section, or are limited, let me do the moving when I get there.

Bring the pup's!

Tip #3 - Don't stress. Stress stresses me out. Stress stresses baby out. Don't stress over cleaning and tidying the house. I simply only need a few clutter free areas. Don't worry about sweeping the floor or cleaning the bathroom, or the dishes in the sink. Seriously. Don't do it.

“The most magical day of my life, was the day I became a mother.”

Tip #4 - Prepare the Nursery and Master bedroom. These are the other areas where I'll shoot with you and dad and baby. So if these areas are clutter free, it will help me a lot! I also love to photograph all the hard work that went into creating all those magical, Pinterest perfect nursery's because they won't stay a nursery forever!

All the littlest details

Tip #5 - Keep baby sleepy if you can! The first newborn days of baby are relatively sleepy anyway, but in order to get the coziest images of baby's features, we want a sleepy baby. I typically aim to start with the morning sun around 10:30 or 11 am or if it suits your schedule better, afternoon between 1-2. A space heater and a portable sound machine will also work wonders with a newborn. If you have time, you could try to nurse baby just before the start of the session so that baby is mostly happy with a full belly!

And I want the whole family! Big brothers and sisters are a must! I come prepared for melt downs.

Have washed and ready any props or swaddles, or onesies out that you want to use. I don't pose my newborns, but I'm happy to put them into a cute outfit if thats your hearts desire. Avoid baby shoes and stiff collared shirts- this will make newborns appear frumpy, and shoes fail to stay on anyway :)

I will bring a few baskets with 5 or 6 cloth swaddles of neutral and earth tone colors. If you have an outfit of choice or swaddle you'd love to use, please mention that to me and lay them out before hand!

All About Dad

Daddy Prep

Let daddy know before hand that he can be a huge help by getting you and baby what you need during the session. He can also help by taking care of the other kiddos or crazy pets until we're ready for him. He definitely doesn't have to worry about looking at my camera and waiting to strike a pose. He just needs to make sure you have a hot cup of coffee in your hand and be ready to snuggle up with his baby. (And you too of course!)

Mamas: Take a minute to show daddy how much you appreciate him. He's likely been trying to hide his nerves, his over protective anxiety, while trying not to complain about his lack of sleep out of respect for you. ;) Show him some extra affection and tell him some kind words. You'll be sure to see him reveal his true "daddy" colors during our newborn session. And those, my friend, are the images that always stand out among the rest.

Last but not least, relax. No seriously, you can sit down and relax. I will want time to walk through the home and spot the "good light". I will gently, slowly guide you through our session together. There's plenty of time to nurse, swaddle and change baby's diaper, and even drink a cup of coffee that you've microwaved 7 times that morning. I got you, mom.

And of course, call me or text me with any last minute questions you might have!

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