There is nothing better than a newborn baby. Here are some general guidelines for planning a newborn session. The most important thing to consider when planning a newborn session is timing. You want to plan to do the session within the first 14 days after giving birth. I find day 5 is typically the best. If you are having a boy and are planning a circumcision you should schedule the session five days after the procedure. If you are behind and are already past the 14 days, we can still schedule the session but the end result may or may not be your typically newborn photos. With that being said, it is best to book either during your pregnancy session or as soon as the baby is born. We will set a tentative based on your due date or c-section, with the understanding that we can easily move the date or time if the baby comes early or late. I ask clients to call when the baby is born with the arrival date and weight – this way we can plan the best schedule. Babies are best photographed around 6 days, but this is dependent upon the weight. Smaller babies (5/6 pounds) may be photographed around 12-14 days, while as bigger babies should be photographed around 5-12 days. Typically I like to shoot newborn sessions in my studio where I provide a safe warm environment, consistent natural lighting, lots of hats, wraps, headbands, buckets bowls, backdrops. I do offer in home sessions but I do not bring all the props. You may want to schedule a time to come by the studio ahead of time and pick out props. Even though I have lots of props you may want to consider bringing personal items to incorporate into the shoot. You will want to bring a pacifier.
You will be asked to feed the baby when you arrive at the studio. Prior to your arrival try and interact with the baby as much as possible so the baby will be nice a sleepy through the shoot. Some foods can upset the babies tummy. Mothers that are breastfeeding should avoid acidic foods, such as lemons, oranges, berries, pizza, spaghetti, chili, and tomato products. Also, you want to avoid Gassy vegetables, such as asparagus, onions, broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower.
The baby should arrive wearing loose fitting clothing, nothing over the head; zip-up or snap-up onesie/sleeper. I will be photographing the baby naked and do worry I am completely prepared for pee and poo. I have plenty of towels, wipes, and hand sanitizer. Typically the session will last about 2 hours but newborns are unpredictable for that reason be prepared for the session to last longer. In order to keep the baby warm and comfortable, I will keep the studio around 80-85 degrees, that being said you want to make sure you dress appropriately.
If you have special requests just let me know and I can usually accommodate you as long as it is safe for the baby.
Pricing For newborn sessions I charge $600, which includes all the digital files, copyright release, and some minor retouching.
Sara Jordan Photography
info@sarajordanphotography.com
1601 East Cesar Chavez St
Austin, TX 78702
(512)696-8501