Session Guide – Newborn

Newborn sessions can last up to 3 hours. The final length is determined by the session type you’ve chosen, the baby’s tolerance for having his or her photos taken, and whether or not we are doing parent and sibling shots. Ideally, the baby should be sound asleep, but this takes time and is often dependent on the baby’s mood. If the baby is alert, I will also try to get a few awake shots.

With newborns and infants, knit wraps and bare skin provide some wonderful portraits. Diaper covers, cloth diapers, and onesies are also an option. I do supply a variety of blankets and wraps at these sessions, but if there are any sentimental objects or clothing items that you would like to incorporate into the photos, please let me know at the start of the session.

To reduce the likelihood that they will be fussy during our session, infants should be fed at least 15 minutes prior to our session. Of course, this cannot always be timed perfectly so time is allotted within a session for feedings, diaper changes, etc. Prior to this feeding, please dress the baby in a side-snap onesie and pants, or any other clothing item that does not go over the head and can be removed easily without waking the baby. I also suggest that you try and stimulate the baby prior to the session so that he or she will be nice and sleepy for the photos. Naturally, I expect babies to be fussy, it’s simply part of the job, so please don’t feel bad if your normally super-sleepy newborn picks the day of the photoshoot to test out his or her little lungs. Trust me, I’m used to it!

Below are some additional tips to ensure a successful portrait session.

What to Wear for Family Portraits

While the focus of the session is on your newborn, you may also choose to include a few parent, sibling and family shots as well.

Clothing choice is an integral part of your final images. Choosing the right tones and fabrics helps to guarantee beautiful images! Below I’ve outlined a few things to consider when selecting outfits.

When you’re a client of Kelli Dease Photography, you also have access to my studio wardrobe. Selections are available for the whole family. All of our pieces have neutral tones, and options for moms and little girls have soft, feminine details. Adult sizes range from size XS to XL. Children’s sizes start at 6 months. You can take a peek at some of the options here. Keep in mind that this is not everything, and pieces are being added all the time! (Pieces for children 5 and older are a bit more limited, so be sure to review your options with the studio prior to your session.)

I keep this Pinterest board for all of my clients and you are welcome to browse through for ideas.

Coordinate Colors

Coordinating colors tend to photograph better than outfits that are perfectly matched. Consider selecting a palette of 2-4 coordinating colors and select outfits within the palette for each family member. Simple and neutral colored clothing works best: Whites, creams, light shades of brown, pink, taupe, etc.

For the Baby

For family and sibling photos the baby will be swaddled in a soft blanket. This helps to keep the baby warm and calm. I have plenty to choose from at the studio so there is no need to bring outfits for the baby.

Keep it Simple

My goal is to capture authentic, relaxed images of your children and/or your family. Select clothes that reflect your personal style and taste rather than forcing yourselves into something formal or outside of your comfort zone. With siblings, especially toddlers, simple clothing is best. Most toddlers will only sit with the baby for a very short amount of time. Having to fuss with perfecting clothing and hair accessories before getting the shot can sometimes mean missing the shot altogether!

The following suggestions are simply provided as guidelines:

For Mom:

Simple and neutral colored clothing in muted tones works best: Whites, creams, soft browns, light shades of pink, taupe, etc.
Bohemian or peasant style maxi or midi dresses with a subtle texture, such as lace.

For Dad:

Men should wear chinos or other casual style bottoms, in light, muted tones.
Solid colored tops, such as a Henley or t-shirt, in soft, neutral tones. Layers are great; wear the t-shirt under a crew- or v-neck sweater or jacket.

For the Kids:

Little girls should wear simple and neutral colored dresses or rompers with a bit of texture or feminine detail. Be sure to include bloomers so diapers or underwear don’t show! A coordinating, textured button-up sweater is great for colder days.
Little boys look adorable in linen or cotton shirts, and soft chinos or shorts. Suspenders can be added for a bit of layering.

What Not To Wear

As important as what to wear is what NOT to wear. Please avoid:

Anything with logos, graphics, or bold patterns
Black or darkly colored clothing
Athletic shoes
High-collared shirts
Large hair bows
Business or formal wear (button-up dress shirts, blazers, ties, etc.)

A Note About Sibling Portraits

I am happy to capture a few images of newborns with their siblings. However, please keep in mind that young siblings (under 4) may not want to be photographed with their new brother or sister. I will do my best to capture images of your newborn with their toddler or pre-school aged sibling, but the safety of the baby is my main priority! For some children, the stress of having a new baby in the family combined with the pressure to be perfectly behaved for photos can simply be a bit too much! If children are overly excited or aggressive I will have them take a break and we will try again towards the end of the session. Most toddlers do not respond well to bribery, so if a child shows no interest in having his or her picture taken, it is best for everyone involved not to force them.

If you are coming to the studio for your session, please remember to bring snacks and entertainment for your older children. Whenever possible, I try to do family and sibling shots at the beginning of the session. If you live nearby, you may want to bring a second car so that a parent or grandparent can take any older children home once they are done being photographed. In the warmer months, a parent or grandparent can also take any older children outside. There is a bike/walking path, a Dunkin Donuts, and a few other restaurants and stores within walking distance of the studio.

Remember to Bring:

Any special items you would like included in the photo session
Wet wipes and extra diapers
A pacifier*
Snacks and magazines (for you … a little entertainment helps the time pass quicker, and there is no Wi-Fi in the studio)
Extra formula or breast milk

* Even if your baby has not learned to take a pacifier yet, or you do not plan to use one, it can be extremely helpful to have one on hand for the session. Some babies are more sensitive to being posed and will easily stir or wake up. Often, a pacifier can quickly soothe them back to sleep, rather than having to pick them up or take extra breaks to rock, feed and re-pose them.