One of my most frequently asked questions is 'When should I book my newborn session?'
My answer is - it depends - but it's also very simple!
When should I book my newborn session?
I do not pose newborns, but I believe if you decide to do that style of photography it is recommended that you have your session between 7-10 days old.
My style is a lot more relaxed and I do not pose my babies. I let them go into whatever natural positions they prefer. I may turn their head, move their hand away from their face, or tuck their feet under them but that's it.
Because I do not pose my newborns for their photo shoots, I can photograph newborns at any age really.
So how do we decide?
I always think that it's a newborn shoot so earlier is better. We book your session on your due date and I'll touch base one week before to remind you that you booked a session with me (it's a busy time) and see how it's going.
When you give birth, I ask that you get in touch and let me know how you are feeling. Some moms are up for a shoot right away, and others wait quite a while afterwards.
I photograph mom in all of my sessions, and I always want to make sure that mom is feeling all right and actually wants me to be there. I do not want you to look at your photos and only have memories where you were uncomfortable and did not want me there.
Other factors you may consider
Babies tend to be sleepiest in the first two weeks. After that there is something called the crying curve where the crying steadily increases to a peak at 6-8 weeks (just when you are completely exhausted). I don't recommend doing your session during those weeks. However, I HAVE done sessions during that time and it was fine. You know your baby best.
Sometimes family is visiting and we can include them in the sessions.
At the time of writing, I don't do weekend in-home newborn sessions. If your partner is taking two weeks paternity leave and then going back to work you may want to get it in during those two weeks.
What do you think? Have you thought of a newborn session? Do you think you'd prefer it in-home or at the studio?
Contact me for more info.
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