The newborn stage speeds by quicker than you can even comprehend in those early days. I am so incredibly grateful that we have these photos to treasure for the rest of our lives, but I will be the first to say that sometimes getting those precious photos is easier said than done. I was hesitant about even having them taken, because I didn't want to stress myself out as a brand new mom, but now I wouldn't trade them for the world. Below are my top 5 tips to take the pressure off :
1. Hire a photographer you really trust. Much like photos from your wedding day, newborn photos can't be replaced or taken again down the road if they don't turn out like you hoped. It's kind of a one shot deal. Do your research and select someone whose style you love, who has plenty of experience in this genre and who you feel very comfortable around. The beauty of newborn shoots is that your new little family is captured right there in your home, so there is a lot of down time for diaper changes, nursing sessions and snuggles, so you want to feel at ease with your photographer.
2. Give yourself and your baby a second to get to know each other. Typical "newborn" shoots happen within the first 2 weeks of baby's little life. However, we opted to wait until almost the 4 week mark and I am so glad we did! That time allowed us to learn baby's cues and schedule, so that we could be more relaxed and our session could be more predictable. It also gave me more of a chance to recover and feel more energized myself.
3. Fill that baby up. A fed baby, is a happy baby. Newborn shoots last a couple of hours, intentionally so that you can allow yourself time to stop and feed. Don't push your luck and try to squeeze it in before the next feeding. Take your time, feed, snuggle and everyone will be happier.
4. Use those tricks of the trade! Using a sound machine can be a lifesaver. For the majority of our photos in the nursery, my husband had our portable sound machine on in his back pocket. It immediately calms most babies and obviously you would never know by looking at the photos. Also, per our photographer, it's really tough to tell if a newborn is crying or smiling from a distance in photos, so you go with the flow!
5. Keep it simple. Yes, you need to pick up your home, but you don't need to clean it top to bottom. You did just have a baby. Dress yourself and your family members in comfortable clothing, and be sure to consider how your outfit will photograph with your baby. You want your style to be the backdrop, not the main attraction. Simplicity photographs really beautifully. Embrace and enjoy these fleeting moments with your new little family that you are so fortunate to capture.
*Photo credits to Michelle Leonard photography, if you are searching for a fabulous family photographer in Wilmington, she's your gal!
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