When should I schedule my newborn photos?

Usually, somewhere between 3 days to 3 weeks after the baby is born is the best time to have your Lifestyle Newborn photos taken. 

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Where will my Newborn session take place?

The session will take place in the comfort of your own home, the place that reflects you and your family.  I want to document your family in places that have available natural light and where you spend your time.  I want you to look back at these images years from now and remember the rocking chair where you would nurse or the couch where dad would snuggle with your baby.  I want to document your life during those special early days with the new member of your family.

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Will you bring props or pose us at the Newborn session?

As a lifestyle photographer, I will not be bringing any studio equipment (there will be no extra lights, backdrops or props).  My focus will be on your life as it is.  As far as posing, I will give you guidance on where to sit and hold your baby, but I want the shots to have an authenticity about them as you kiss, snuggle and admire your new baby. 

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What should we wear?

Keep it simple.  I want you to feel beautiful and comfortable.  Steer away from busy patterns, logos or bright colors (they can cause colors to bounce back onto the baby).  A neutral color palette is my favorite because it allows the focus to be on you as a family, more than what you are wearing.  For your newborn, a simple swaddle or just their birthday suit are best. Outfits can be bulky and awkward when they are so tiny and distract. 

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How should I prepare for my Newborn session?

I know that it is an overwhelming time in the life of a family and I want to make your session as simple as possible.  Most importantly, you can prepare by taking some deep breaths to relax and prepare yourselves to just be with your family.

 

Step 1 - Your whole house doesn't have to be perfect.  It's supposed to look lived in.  The things around you are what connect you to this time in place.  Leave your dirty dishes, don't clean the floors, and don't do any extra laundry.  We are going to be in just a few areas of your home where we will be.  Just declutter any places that may be in the shoot.  If you don't get a chance, I can help through some stuff in closet during your session.  

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Step 2 - Open blinds or curtains.  We are going to be using all that natural light.

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Step 3 - Collect any items that you would like to use during the session.  These might be special blankets, swaddles, or a stuffed animal.

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Step 4 - Crank up the heat to make your house nice and warm for the baby.  They just came out of your nice, warm womb and something close to 78 - 80F is a happy spot for them.  Warm babies are more likely to sleep.

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Step 5 - If you want nursing and bottle feeding photos, plan to nurse/bottle feed when I arrive.

 

Step 6 - Slow down and take in all their amazingness.  I want this to be a time for you to just savor these moments together.

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What should I expect during my Newborn session?

When I first get to your home, I will take a look around to check out all the rooms to plan on shooting in to create a plan for your session and move around anything that may be helpful.  During the session, don't worry about looking at the camera.  I will let you know if you need to look.  I will give you plenty of guidance.  Relax and enjoy your time together as a family.  I know that kids and babies have plans of their own.  If we have a young child that may cry, diapers that need to be changed, don't worry!  I'm here to capture your life as authentically and beautifully as I can.  I will do my best to make our time together as comfortable, relaxing and enjoyable as I can.  I want this to be a treasured memory for your family.

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When should I book my Newborn session?

Ideally, it's best to book your session when you are still pregnant.  I know that plans may change and we may need to change the date/time of your session, but it helps to get your slot on the calendar.  When you're ready to book your session, let me know.  Once we agree on a tentative date/time and your deposit is paid, I will send you a short questionnaire that will help me to start planning your session ahead of time.  It's always nice to have those details figured out ahead of time, so you have less to worry about once the baby arrives.

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What happens after the session?

I will send you an invoice via email after the session for the remaining balance.  Once paid in full, I will email you within one week with a link to the online proofing gallery where you can view your edited photos.  The photos you will receive are high-resolution JPG for your personal use.

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How long does it take to receive prints and albums?  

After your order is placed, prints take 10 - 14 days and albums take 2 - 3 weeks for shipment.

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To learn more about your Newborn sessions, check out my blog post at https://www.amandamilesphotography.com/post/what-is-a-newborn-at-home-lifestyle-session

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