It is no secret that i absolutely love love LOVE photographing newborns. I love photographing children in general. I get many questions a week about how i do it, where i do it, when i do it. So i thought a F.A.Q. post might be just the answer. So here goes!
Q: When should i schedule my newborn session?
A: We prefer you schedule it at about 8 months along or before. We schedule it by your due date. We book up so fast, usually about 2 months ahead of time. We want to make sure you for sure get into the schedule.
Q: How old should the baby be?
A: We love it when we get them around 6 days old. They are SO much more sleepy and willing to participate. They change so much in the first even just days. And they will only be that small for so long. We want to capture that!
Q: Where do you do them?
A: Right now we do them right in your home. I find it works out great when you have everything you and baby need right there. We just need a window or sliding glass door that lets in some good light. And a little space to set up our gear. There may be a place like a studio in the future but right now in home works best.
Q: What do i have to do during the session?
A: NOTHING! In fact its better for you to not be too involved. Babies can smell mommy. Especially breastfed babies. I know it sounds crazy but its true. They tend to wake up more and be fussier. So grab a cup of tea and a book and head to the couch or take a long hot shower. Daddy, grandma or auntie can hang out with us while you get some YOU time (maybe even a little cat nap). Or maybe you can spend some one on one time with the big brother or sister.
Q: How long is the session?
A: Newborn sessions are all unique. Just like every little person is unique. We tell parents to plan on between 2-4 hours. There is a lot of Shhsh-ing, Rocking, bouncing, feeding and cuddling. Usually more of that than actual photographing.
Q: Do we need to have anything for the session?
A: Nope, but i do recommend that we use any items that you love. This personalizes it. We have hats, headbands and other items. And sell some items
here . But if you have a hat or something that you love, we almost always can incorporate it. Believe me, we are creative so whatever you have we can use it! Do you know something you want but don't know where to find it? Let us know, we are pretty crafty.
Q: How long does it take to get my proofs?
A: I say about 2 weeks. I then upload them to an online gallery for your viewing pleasure. We can then do the order after you view and fall in love.
Q: What is the best way to display my images?
A: Honestly? Ok well our area is a bit behind the trends. People really no longer hang up the 8x10 that they switch every 3 months. Big canvas gorgeous prints above the babies crib are huge right now. Digital albums are a great way to show off you images. Think Story Book/Coffee Table book. These are images you don't have to take down. They can stay up for always. They tell a story.
Q: Are there any specials on Newborn Photography if i do it with another service like Maternity or Birth?
A: YES! We offer a couple packages that include a variety of options. Birth packages are new right now so i am working out the details. But i can tell you that a newborn session will be included in one of the birth packages. And there will be a "Bump to Bundle of Love" package that includes Maternity, Birth and Newborn all in one.
And now the BIG question!
Q: Why should i photograph my Newborn?
A: Your child is special. They are amazing. They are tiny only for a moment. You can never go back to this time. We hold them for such a short time, and then they are off and independent. You can have their 6 day old self whenever you want by looking at the Beautiful Canvas on their wall or in your living room. Most often than not we regret the things we didn't do, not the things we did. You will never regret these.
I so look forward to meeting you and your sweet bundle of love. My heart sings with joy every time i get the news that we have another sweet face to photograph.
I hope this post was able to answer some of your questions. If you still have more please email me at Amandamlipsey@yahoo.com
