Charlotte Newborn Photography FAQs: Your Guide to a Stress-Free Session
Having a newborn baby is one of life’s most exciting and overwhelming experiences. Between navigating the new routine, lack of sleep, and general adjustment period, it’s completely understandable if professional newborn photos are not at the forefront of your mind. As a Charlotte NC newborn photographer, I aim to make your photo session expeience as stress-free as possible. I remember how the days blend together when you get home from the hospital and those groggy lack of sleep days! This guide covers some frequently asked questions to help you prepare and know what to expect.
What is a Newborn Photography Session Like?
Newborn sessions are often very soothing- picture a warm studio with shushing white noise and all of your customized photography sets ready to go when you arrive! (Though let’s be honest, if you have an older toddler, they may not be as quiet and peaceful!) Sessions are focused around capturing those posed portraits of your tiny new bundle of joy-- often times we will begin your session with family and parents poses. That way you are nice and fresh for your photos at the beginning. After that, we move through sibling photos (if you have another little one!) and then to baby’s solo debut.
Your session will typically last 2-3 hours, depending on how sleepy baby is and how much time we need to take for feeding, soothing and posing. I work on baby’s time, so we stop as necessary and work at baby’s pace. You get to relax after family photos, as I will take care of the rest! Everything is provided- cozy sets and wraps, props, and even outfit options for baby and mom. The studio is fully equipped with toys for older siblings, a changing table, some snacks, and of course all the props and accessories.
When is the Best Time for Newborn Photos?
The ideal window for newborn sessions is approximately 5-17 days after birth. Babies tend to be sleepier and easier to gently mold into those classic poses during this time. However, it’s never too late- I can work my posing magic on older babies too. Sessions are typically scheduled during weekday mornings around 10:30. In my 10 years experience, I find babies to be sleepier during the morning hours than the afternoons. This also typically works better for any siblings that my have an afternoon nap schedule to work around.
What Should We Bring to Our Session?
No need to pack anything special! If you have a sentimental trinket that you would like your little one photographed with, fel free to bring it with your session. For mom and dad, prioritize simple, soft, and solid-colored outfits that will photograph nicely. If you use pacifiers, bring one of those as well as a few bottles if you are bottle feeding. That’s it - leave everything else to me!
Can Siblings Attend the Session?
Absolutely! I love incorporating siblings in some newborn portraits for memorable shots. The studio has toys to keep older kids entertained, or you can bring help to take them home for the second half focused on just the baby. We’ll capture some awesome images of your newest addition being loved by their siblings.
How Should We Prepare for Newborn Photos?
Ideally we want baby to sleep for his or her session. If you would like to try and en sure that sleepiness, you can try and keep baby awake for a bit before your session. But please don’t stress if baby is not having it! The only other thing I ask of my parents, is that you feed your baby right before leave for your session. Again, if this is too difficult r timing doesn’t work right, it’s ok. You can always feed baby at the studio! Do not worry about anything else; I set up a relaxing environment in the studio and adjust the poses carefully so the baby is at ease and relaxed. This time is for you to relax too!
Can We Get Hair and Makeup Services?
Yes! I’m pleased to offer professional hair and makeup services as an add-on for just $200. With the exhaustion of those first days, it’s such a treat for moms to get dolled up and feel pampered. My studio provides all styling services to prepare you for your close-up. You can trust me to handle all the details of your baby’s first newborn photography session. Simply show up with your new love, and I’ll take it from there to capture memories you’ll cherish forever! Contact me to schedule an appointment to chat about what photos you are looking for, or to schedule your newborn session today!
