Preparing for a newborn session

WHEN TO DO A NEWBORN SESSION?

Preferably between the 5th and 12th day after the birth of the baby. During this time, the child sleeps more often and more deeply and taking the pictures is easier. I prefer to do the sessions in the morning when the child is still calm after the night.

WHERE IS THE NEWBORN SESSION HELD?

I do newborn sessions in a quiet atmosphere in my home studio in Zwolle. It is equipped with a changing table with the necessary accessories (diapers, wet wipes, etc.) During the session, the room is well warmed up (25-28 degrees C), so that the baby is always comfortable.

HOW LONG DOES THE NEWBORN SESSION TAKE?

The newborn session usually lasts about 3 hours, but can go up to 4-5 hours when the baby needs to be fed more or longer or when older siblings join the session. It is best not to plan anything else for this day.

WHEN TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT?

It is best to book a newborn session during pregnancy, approximately 1-2 months before the planned delivery date. This can be done via the contact form, by sending an e-mail, by contacting me via Facebook, Instagram or by telephone.

CAN I CHANGE THE STYLING?

By deciding to shoot with me, you accept my style of photography. Of course if you have any special color wishes, please let me know in advance.

ARE FAMILY PHOTOS TAKEN DURING THE SESSION?

At every newborn session I also take family photos (with parents and older siblings). Pictures with siblings are only possible at the beginning of the session, as it lasts 3 to 4 hours and the presence of other young children can significantly hinder its progress.*

WHAT SHOULD I BRING TO THE SESSION?

For each session I prepare appropriate accessories and additions that are a nice addition to the session.

Only bring the basic accessories for your baby's care, such as:

  • Milk - sometimes it helps with sleep.

  • If you are breast-feeding - pump the milk into a bottle with the breast pump

  • A feeding bottle

  • Several tetra cloths / flannel diapers

  • A pacifier - even if your baby doesn't normally use a pacifier it can be very helpful.

  • Diapers, wet wipes, a blanket to cover him so he can smell a familiar scent.

  • Plain black or white t-shirts for yourself to take a picture with the baby and especially t-shirts in case you need to change clothes.

WHAT TO WEAR DURING A SESSION

We have lots of styling, accessories and additions for the little ones. Optionally, you can bring 1-2 pairs of simple rompers, without print, in a soft color. It is convenient for the parents to bring 2-3 shirts / t-shirts, also simple, without printing. Dark (navy blue, gray, black - for photos on a dark background) or something light, delicate - it is important that mom and dad have similar colors. Even if we only use one set during the session - there is always a risk of 'peeing' or an 'accident' - it is good to have extra clothes with you. Usually it doesn't matter what pants you wear as we shoot family photos from the shoulders up so for your convenience you can even come in sweatpants :) Wider frames are created if the session is attended by older siblings. There are also frames where you can see the whole body - for example using a dress Mom also used during a session with her belly.

Feeding and dressing before arriving for the session; it is good to put your baby in clothes that are easy to take off, for example a full-length romper with a zipper.

I recommend that you do not feed your baby at home first. If a baby comes to the studio a little hungry and sleepy, it's easy to undress him and prepare him for the photos (changing clothes, for example) and then feed him. This makes it much more likely that the baby will fall asleep and the session will be much more enjoyable for him. However, if it is not convenient and there is a need for food at home, that is of course possible. You do not have to worry.

SECURE DURING A SESSION

I consciously place all newborns in safe and comfortable positions that they know from their mother's womb. If I see that a position does not suit the baby, I adjust the position. Please remember that I actively use the parents to help with belaying. Of course I explain everything in detail during the session. Safety is paramount in newborn sessions. I always check 3 times before putting the baby in a basket, bucket or drawer, I make sure everything is stable and there are no sharp edges.