One of the biggest moments – the arrival of your newborn baby. Life will never be the same again. Those first few weeks can fly by – often in a blur! A newborn portrait session means you keep part of those earliest days forever. This post is all about what a newborn shoot involves. Should you have a question that’s not covered here please drop me a line.
What does a session involve in brief?
Every booking includes a pre-shoot chat to discuss the type of pictures you’d like, colours, clothing, product options and anything else you’d like to ask. This can take place over the phone or we can meet in person at my studio. At the end of your session you can book a date to come to the studio to view your pictures and make your selection. This is usually one or two weeks after the session. Your order is usually delivered within four weeks.
Where is the session?
You can choose a studio session or have it in your home. It all depends on the type of pictures you’d like. I use lighting in the studio but often in the home environment natural light is the best option. My studio is at 127 Clarence Road, Sutton Coldfield, B74 4AU.
When should we book our date?
You can book your date when you know your due date – after your 20 week scan. You can also book when your baby has arrived if you prefer. Once your baby has arrived get in touch and we can move the date if necessary. A baby’s arrival is not set in stone so there is always some flexibility.
How old should our baby be?
The best time for a newborn session is within the first 21 days. Babies tend to sleep more and it’s easier to gently move them into different positions. Of course, older babies can have a newborn session, and I would say anything up to 8 weeks is fine. Sessions with older babies may take a little longer.
How does it work?
When you book a newborn session you’ll have a zoom or email chat prior to your session date. Then the session itself. Around a week later you’ll be able to access your personal online gallery to view and select your chosen images.
How long does a session last?
You should plan on between two and a half and four hours. I only book one newborn session a day so we can be flexible with time. There’s lots of time for breaks, feeds and cups of tea – for baby and parents!
Are parents involved in the session?
I work alone and ask parents to stay close to the baby for safety and comfort reasons.
What kind of pictures do you take?
I would describe my style as natural. I have a range of backdrops and wraps to choose from and some props. We take a range of pictures including images of all the beautiful little details – toes, hands, eyelashes. During our pre-shoot chat we can talk about all of these things and more.
Do you take pictures of parents and baby?
Yes, I do though it is completely up to you. It may well be the last thing you want to do after a few sleepless nights but I encourage parents to have them taken. Siblings are also very welcome for some big brother or sister pictures. You then have more options for your final choices. Your first family shoot will become more important to you over the years – especially when your little one is a teenager. Imagine that!
Do you use the pictures in marketing?
Only if you give permission and I only use names with your agreement.
What is the cost of a newborn portrait session?
A deposit of £50.00 is payable when you book and secures the date. There are three collections to choose from and the balance is due on the day of your session or before. Please drop me a line if you would like my Newborn Portraits guide.
