The Best Time for Newborn Photos | RA Photography
If you're like most new parents, you probably can't wait to capture those first few weeks of your baby's life in photos! Newborn photography is such a special and important time for your family. I am so excited to capture these memories for you! Here are my top tips on when to schedule your newborn session.
Based in Northern Virginia, Rachel Alfieri has been providing the best infant and newborn studio photos for almost 5 years! Follow along as she provides expert tips and information on scheduling your newborn session!
When to plan your newborn session
Planning your newborn session early gives you the most peace of mind! If you want to guarantee an amazing newborn photo session, book it early! I only schedule a certain number of sessions every month so that each client receives my full attention. Booking a session 7-21 days after your baby’s arrival allows us to capture those delicate, timeless images that all parents cherish. When the session is booked, an approximate time frame on my calendar will be saved for you - and then we'll set the actual date once your little one arrives. At the studio, I take great joy and pride in creating photographic memories for all my clients -- booking ahead makes sure that this is possible for each new family!
Why there is an ideal window
As newborn photographers, we encourage our clients to plan their first session within the first weeks of baby's life. During these first weeks, your baby is still in a flexible and womb-like state which allows them to be so cozy, and amazingly sleepy! Scheduling in the first weeks also allows us to capture such precious tiny details like those little sweet wrinkles, hands feet and rolls that your little one will soon outgrow! Planning early is a great way to ensure you get all the shots you will love before they become just memories. If, for any reason, your little one can't be photographed during this time frame - don't fret! Despite not being able to do a few poses, we can still make plenty of magic happen for your albums.
How to prepare for your session
Planning a newborn session is such an exciting experience! To ensure you get the most out of your session, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, loose-fitting clothes for baby will help reduce any lines or marks on skin from tight clothing as those might show through certain shots or poses-natural naked images have such special beauty all of their own! If you are wondering when is the best time of day for your newborn session, my experience has shown that 10-am is the perfect time to start. Without question this has proven to be the best time to capture special photos since the little ones are more inclined to sleep deeply and be less fussy. Try to keep your newborn awake for a few hours before with some naked time, or a bath so they will be sleepy when you arrive. With these tips in mind, you're sure to have a wonderful photo session with memories that will last a lifetime.
What to expect during your session
At the studio, I provide props and backgrounds specially curated to fit the needs of my clients. From simple to more elaborate items, I offer a variety of different options to choose from – whatever it is you are envisioning for your special day! It is my mission to make your session special, and I work with you in order to capture cherished memories that will last for a lifetime.
For parents and their younger children, I offer a tranquil space with seating, refreshments, and even a washroom to make your session more enjoyable. To ensure ample time for feeding, changing diapers, soothing the baby etc., my newborn sessions last between 1-3 hours depending on the package selected. You can use it as an opportunity to relax by reading something interesting or catching up on emails; all while watching your little one's session!
Congratulations on your sweet bundle of joy! Planning your newborn session ahead of time is essential for ensuring everything runs as smoothly as possible. The earlier you book, the better, so that all your questions can be answered and you are fully prepared with all the expectations in mind. It's important to do some research beforehand and understand what to expect during a newborn photoshoot and how to prepare for it. Above all else remember that this stage of life should be filled with joy, connection and curious exploration - so delight in all these moments! Knowing what would make the session perfect for your family is undoubtedly something worth considering - let me know what would make it special for you so I can tailor the experience accordingly! Best wishes & enjoy this amazing journey!
