Tip #1: Keep baby mostly awake before your session.

Without getting baby overly tired, If you can keep them as awake as possible within the hour before your session starts, this will help them to be nice and tired for the session. An overly tired baby can cause restless sleep too, so you don't have to force it, especially since we are on baby's schedule now! :)

Tip #2: Feeding just before the camera clicks.

Feeding baby just before your photographer starts taking photos, is key. As you know by now, baby will be telling you when they want to eat quite often! Though you can pretty much be sure that every two hours for the first few weeks will be the norm, try to keep the feeding that comes just before your photographer arrives smaller than normal. Then, once you are ready to begin your session, give a nice full feeding and baby will be milk drunk and happy!***If you are breastfeeding, try to stay away from foods that are spicy, or that give you that bloated and gassy feeling. These foods will go into your breastmilk and can also affect baby's tummy!***

Tip #3: Complete burping of baby after feeding.

Yes, I know, this should go without saying; however, I have had many the baby who won't give that last burp and it keeps baby's belly a little distended and uncomfortable while being swaddled up all nice and cozy. Burping is such a key element as well, this means less cries, deeper sleep, and relaxing can happen with baby, parents, and photographer alike.

If baby is gassy:

If baby's belly is still a little tight, try the circular belly rub, bicycle kicks method. (ok I just made that name up) but it certainly works!! If you don't know about the method, it is laying baby on their back and using your hand to massage baby's belly in clockwise circular motions pressing ever so slightly with light pressure. Once you have done this motion a few times, follow up with helping baby move their legs in a bicycle motion several times, then bring legs down, then back up toward the tummy. Then lift baby up and place on your shoulder for some back pats. This can result in gas build up coming out in burps and in toots too!

Bonus Tip #1: Have a bottle and pacifier ready!

Having a bottle ready with either breast milk or formula during your session will help top off your sweet little one during those times when they get slightly awakened and start to cry. Also, have a pacifier with you. Even if you don't ever plan on using a pacifier ever again, this session will benefit from being able to use one to sooth baby in the event of waking slightly. These have come in handy so many times during sessions to keep baby nice and sleepy!

Bonus Tip #2: Change that diaper!

Just before baby will drift off to sleepy land, you will want to change into a fresh diaper. The dry diaper will help to keep them nice and sleepy and comfortable.

Bonus Tip #3: Mom and Dad, please eat breakfast.

When mom and dad have had their breakfast, they are much more calm during the session allowing for baby to relax.

Other Things to Remember:

Before your photographer arrives, clothe your newborn in a diaper only wrapped in a blanket, or in clothing that is easy to remove and does not need to be removed over the head as to not wake the baby when changing into wraps for photos. Examples of appropriate clothing would be zip up rompers or items that are removed from the bottom.

Some sessions will include close-ups of parent hands. If a fresh manicure isn't in your plans, just be sure to remove any chipped nail polish and even out your fingernails so that you love the outcome of your photos!

It is important to know that babies have an incredible sense of smell and can recognize their momma’s scent. That being said, during the newborn photography session, it is advisable for parents to take a step back and allow the photographer to gently swaddle and soothe baby to sleep. This way, baby does not get unsettled and think that it is time to wake up and feed. While it is important to remain in the room, staying within talking distance ensures you can assist if needed, while also giving your photographer the space to work their magic! Your presence is comforting, and your cooperation helps create a nurturing environment for your little one.

Some parents prefer to get a few photos of baby when he/she is awake. Awake newborn photos, while beautiful, can be quite challenging to capture due to the constant movements of their arms and legs. It is best not to try to keep your baby awake for the session. If it becomes a last resort, we will make the most of the scenario and get some excellent photos. A sleepy newborn is definitely preferred as they have such minimal movements, which allows your photographer to take those perfect, calm, serene photographs. Your help in ensuring your baby eases off to sleep during your session will help create the most beautiful outcome for your photographs.

Be sure also to check with your photographer if you have any questions on what to wear to match with your designed session.

Wishing you lots of luck for your upcoming newborn photography session!!