Have you wanted to get Newborn Pictures done but where a little unsure about the process, or what to expect? Well this post is a complete breakdown from start to finish of what to expect during the process!
Find a Photographer that matches your style:
One of the first things you should do once you have decided you want Newborn Photography portraits, is find a photographer in your area that matches your style. Not sure what your style is? That's okay! Just choose a photographer that does beautiful work. Things to consider: Are you looking for an in-home session? Are you looking for studio portraits? Make sure to read up on your photographer to see what they offer! Once you have found the photographer that offers what you are looking for, it is time to contact them!
Timing is Crucial:
There is a small window of age in which baby's do best for sleepy, beautifully posed pictures. I always do my Newborn Sessions at 1-2 weeks of age. That is why it is very important to get ahead of the game, and get your Newborn Session scheduled early. If you book your session early, you are much more likely to be able to get on your photographer's schedule. If you wait too long, or until baby arrivers, you might not be able to get in within that 1-2 weeks of age mark. This doesn't mean you can't get Newborn Pictures done, in fact I've done Newborn Pictures up to 8 weeks old. But you will be limiting your photographer's ability to get the desired poses you see in Newborn Pictures because the baby's are much more awake and alert. So you might be asking yourself, so how early should I book my Newborn Session? I recommend getting your session booked at least 1-2 months before your due date. Even sooner if you are considering doing a Maternity Session as well (which I do at 28-34 weeks along). This will make sure you get in within that window, and make sure you and your photographer are prepared for your session day.
Personalization:
Now that your session is booked, it is time to have your session tuned to your liking! I always send out a questionnaire to my clients to get details on what they would like to see at their session. Things I ask are about color options, the set they would like for the family portion, etc.. I always ask about any questions or concerns moving forward to help give my clients a space to address anything that might be on their mind so they are at ease going into the big day. An important thing to remember is that you hired your photographer because you have seen the work they have done, so give them the artistic freedom to craft your session! Another resource I give my clients is an instruction guide for them and their baby to help them prepare for their session day to make it go as as smooth as possible. This guide really helps make sure your baby is super sleepy and content during your session and should help get some super cute poses!
Session Day:
You have arrived at your session day! The day of your session is so much fun! I love meeting new clients and getting to share this special memory with them. When you arrive at my studio I always have parents get situated and begin the first feeding for the baby to get them right to sleep. It is normal for the baby to fuss a little during the session, but getting wrapped up all cozy helps them get back to being sleepy! The session can last up to 3 hours and will consist of multiple colored wrap changes, outfit changes, and some prop shots! To make the most out of this time, it is super important to prepare. That is why scheduling your session early and getting a chance to add your personal preferences is a good idea. Get ready to have some good laughs at your session, because those adorable newborns sure know how to make us giggle with their cute personalities!
So my session is over... What is next?
I know how eager parents are to see their Newborn photos. I have been there myself when I had my daughters pictures taken as well! It can take 3-4 weeks to get your full gallery back, but that is too long to even get a little peek! That is why I select a few photos from your session to edit, and post a sneak peek of your session on my Facebook page within 1 week of your session. That way you can get a glimpse at what is to come and even share the post with your friends and family so they can get a little preview! Once I am close to having your gallery done, I send you an email about 1 week before they are finished so you aren't left wondering where your photos are.
So my pictures are just about done... do I only get the ones I paid for, or do I have the option to purchase more?
Every session is unique. I almost always end up with way more photos then what are included in your session cost. I have a few upgrade options for you to pay for 1 additional image, sets of 3, or your entire gallery! But wait... you just paid to have beautiful pictures taken, and now you have a gorgeous gallery that could quite possibly end up just sitting on your SD card or in your computer. Portraits are meant to be displayed beautifully in your home so that you, your friends, and family can admire them every day. That is why I offer in-person print consultation to help you design how you want your images displayed in your home. When your gallery is near complete, we will set a date to meet at my studio to go over all your images and discuss your wall art for your home. I can even show you what they will look like in your actual rooms if you send me pictures! This is where the fun really begins, because you can really add that beautiful touch to your home that you have been looking for.
I hope this post helps you feel prepared for your newborn journey! If you are ready to begin the process I would love to help guide you through your Newborn Photography experience. Click the button below to get started!
Chelsie Belcourt
Professional Newborn Photographer
Elsiebel Photography
Burnsville, Minnesota
Comments