What to expect: The Newborn Home Photo Session

You've had your baby and you've settled back home somewhat nicely. You were proactive and you pre-booked your newborn home session with me (or another photographer) a few months back. You've confirmed your date and now it's time to prepare for the session. You've got your outfits picked out, you tried to tidy up (really not necessary though!), and now it's time for the session. What the heck should you expect now? Let me give you a quick run through of what you can expect from me for your in home newborn photography session!

First of all, I get so excited to see you and the family for your newborn home session. My lifestyle approach means I will be coming into your home for the session to help you capture all the fleeting moments during this time. The fact that you are inviting me into your space means the world!

The Day Of The Session:

When I arrive, I will be masked. If you prefer me to not be masked (sometimes babies and children shy away from the mask and if you are ok with me not being masked) just let me know!

I will leave my things at your entry and sanitize my hands before we begin. I will walk around your home with you and scout out the best lit areas for the session. I often use the master bedroom (honestly I use this space 80% of the session if possible), living area and nursery for photos so long as natural light permits. Please don’t feel like you have to clean the house before I arrive. We can easily clean up an area that we want to use for photos while I’m there. My photos focus heavily on people, not the things around or the background.

Your Baby:

​Your newborn is perfect just the way they are. I won't try and make babies sleep or place them in unnatural poses. I suggest you have your newborn in a simple onesie that is formfitting with no graphics or words, or just simply in a diaper is also perfect. I do recommend feeding the

baby as much as they want about 15 minutes prior to my arrival but we will have plenty of time to take feeding breaks throughout the session. We let the baby guide the session and we will capture all the little details.

Siblings:​

I usually try and get sibling and family photos right at the start because kids may lose interest in me quickly. I have no major expectations from the siblings and will never force them into doing anything they aren't comfortable with. It is best to prepare the sibling for the session by telling them that a friend is coming to visit and take some photos of your family. It is always best not to surprise them. Please do not worry if your toddler is not into the session, we can always take other photos and come back to sibling shots later. I like to give toddlers their time and space to do what they want, trust me when I say they always come back and join the session!

Mom and Dad/Partner:

You are going to be thrilled and exhausted. You will likely be experiencing the highest highs and perhaps some of the lowest lows. Having a new baby is hard and wonderful all at the same time. Remember that I have 2 kids of my own, so I understand exactly what you may be going through. My job is not to make this time in your life look perfect; my job is to show you just how beautiful it is right now. I want you to be relaxed and at ease while I am photographing your family. You don't need to be anything but yourself.

Wardrobe:

I recommend solid neutral/earth toned colours. What is most important is that you are comfortable! My suggestions are just that. If your home is vibrant and full of color and your wardrobe reflects your home, then wear the darn colors! I want your photos to be natural and timeless and most of all reflect you as you are at this time in your lives.

After the Session:

I'll get you some sneak peeks within 48 hours of the session and I will let you know what my current turn around time is to deliver the full gallery to you. Go relax, have a drink and snack and pat yourselves on the back because you did it ;)

Want to see more? Check out my family sessions portfolio here https://www.ericalo.ca/newbornfamily

Feel free to text or email me with any questions you might have. I look forward to seeing you soon!

-Erica