Newborn Photography FAQ
Hi guys! I wanted to shed some light on newborn portrait photography since there have been a ton of questions about it. Ultimately, safety is my number one priority. Please read through the FAQ below for more information about newborn sessions!
How long does a session last?
Newborn sessions often run long due to the nature and frequent nurturing of the infant, expect a minimum of 1-2 hours. I do not rush the session, I let baby take as many breaks as needed. Baby’s comfort and safety is my number one priority.
Do you provide props?
Yes. Unless you have something special you'd like to incorporate I provide most* clothing, knit wraps and select props for the newborn session. If you want a specialty look, you MUST let me know at least 4-5 weeks before hand so that I can prepare. If you do not let me know I cannot guarantee I will achieve the look you desire.
Can I bring something special like an heirloom or prop to include in the session?
Yes! I encourage my clients to bring a little something to incorporate in the session to make it more “them”.
Can I breastfeed in the studio?
Absolutely! I encourage breast and bottle feeding moms to feel free to feed their babies during the session. This will help keep baby calm and sleepy.
Can I request certain poses or shots I’ve seen on other photography sites?
Yes, you can. I will make every attempt to get you what you want in terms of poses; however, there are certain poses, that in my own opinion, are unsafe and pose harm to the baby. These poses, I will not do. Again, baby is my number one priority. Also, remember each baby is different, posing also depends on your little one.
Where does the session take place?
Sessions take place in my studio located in Baton Rouge, LA. I am not currently offering on-location newborn sessions.
When do newborn sessions take place?
Newborn sessions are typically scheduled between 10-25 days. This is done for many reasons. Newborns this young are more flexible and tend remain sleepy for the duration of the session. They are much more tolerant of being posed and moved around than a 4 or 5 week old infant.
Almost all of the “sleepy newborn” shots you see here on the website were done with newborns 25 days old or younger. If your baby is older than 4 weeks, don’t worry, we can still capture beautiful photos-it may just take more effort on both ends and we will need to skip some of the poses you see.
How do I book a session when I’m not sure when baby will be born?
That’s easy… let me know your due date and we will make tentative plans around that time. Once baby is born, let me know as soon as possible (ideally within the first couple of days and absolutely before baby is 7 days) and we will select an actual date. If you do not contact me within that first week, I cannot guarantee availability before the 3 week mark, so please contact me sooner. I always try to leave availability for my newborns, but I do have other sessions scheduled in advance.
Can siblings and parents be in a few shots?
Of course! I do recommend that siblings and anyone who is not mom or dad and is wanting to be in photos with baby, come the last or first 30 minutes of the session. The session does last a few hours and little ones tend to get cranky having to wait around. there is no extra charge for this service!
Anything else I should bring?
A “soothie” pacifier-the greenish kind they have in hospitals. These are GOLD in keeping them asleep! Even if you prefer baby not to have one I do require them for the session. I have some in the studio if you do not have one.
Bottles if applicable, blankets, diapers and wipes, something cool to drink for yourself, the studio will be 80+ degrees.
Please limit guests to two including you. Other guests will be asked to wait in the car.
Hope to see you and your precious babies soon!!