Newborn photography tips

Swoon! I don’t know about the rest of you but I’m convinced that mine is the most beautiful baby in the whole wide world! There’s just something about a fresh baby that melts the heart. Small hands, small toes, inability to backchat (moms of teens, hollar!) The freshness, innocence and purity of a newborn baby is the stuff that broody feelings are made of. We decided to document Jonahs “freshness” but I knew that I had to call in the big guns. I mean, a newborn photo shoot is not exactly something one attempts at home with a cellphone camera. Enter: Michelle of Cutepix Baby and Child Photography! She shared some excellent newborn photography tips and helped to set my mind at ease as I prepped for Jonah’s very first photo shoot.

BTW all the pics in this post – including the stunning header, of my beautiful baby Jo – was taken by her! I will be sharing more of Jo’s photos soon – so keep your eyes peeled for that and something special in my next post! Michelle was also the brains behind Kari’s first birthday cake smash shoot. Check out those pics here.

Newborn photography tips:
1. Try to schedule your photo shoot for when baby is around five to ten days old. They are much more sleepier and flexible around this time, which makes for an easier shoot.

2. Michelle suggests that you keep baby awake before the photo session (well, as best as you can) and feed once you arrive at the studio. You want baby to be super sleepy and relaxed during the shoot.

3. With that said, giving baby a warm bath before is also a great idea. If your photographer can travel, like Michelle can, it’s also ideal to have the session in the comfort of your own home.

4. But if you’re travelling to the studio, try to dress baby in something that can easily be removed (not a onesie or something that has to go over the head).

5. Whether studio or home, always make sure the room is kept warm. Michelle advises that the room temperature should be anywhere between 28-30 degrees celsius. Oh and because the studio is kept warm, come dressed in layers so that you can be comfortable during the session.

6. Keep the room calm and free from any stress at all times. Baby can pick up when mommy is freaked out. If you’re someone that is easily stressed, rather let daddy sit in during the session. I love that Michelle’s studio has a comfy lounger where you can literally take a nap as she takes your baby through the various photo setups. She also plays serene “white noise” that helps to keep your baby calm and happy.

7. If your baby boy was circumcised, try to schedule the photo shoot atleast five days after the circumcision. Baby’s comfort and well being is more important than anything!

8. Allow the photographer to get to know your baby. Michelle has a gentle touch and is a mommy herself – so it’s easy for her to bond with your baby and figure out which pose they will respond best to. This takes times. Bring a book and snacks! I’d much rather have a photographer who is willing to put in the time to get the best shot while keeping my little treasure at ease than have to rush through a shoot because the photographer has only allocated one hour to it.

So there you have it! I can’t wait to show you guys all the beautiful photos taken at Jonahs shoot! Check out Cutepix website for more on what they have to offer. They also offer family/group and maternity shoot packages. I love that Michelle makes her own props and literally pours all of her creativity into each shoot. I highly recommend their services!