Preparing For Your Newborn Shoot
A newborn photoshoot is a calm, baby-led experience designed around your little one’s comfort. At Capture My Moment, sessions are relaxed and unhurried, giving plenty of time for feeding, changing, settling and cuddles whenever needed. The aim is never to rush your baby into poses, but to gently capture those tiny details and sleepy moments while they are still brand new.
When to Book Your Newborn Session
For the soft, curled-up newborn style you see in my portfolio, I recommend booking in advance, so baby is no more than 2 weeks old on the day of the session. During this period, babies are sleepier and easier to settle into those lovely natural poses. Of course, every baby is different, and the session will always be guided by what feels safe and comfortable for your little one on the day.
What to Bring
You are very welcome to bring your own outfits, blankets, sentimental items or anything personal you would like included in the photos. I also have a range of neutral newborn outfits and wraps available in the studio, so there is no pressure to buy/bring anything, unless you want to. If your baby uses a dummy, has a favourite blanket, or anything that helps them settle, you should bring that along too.
Feeding and Settling Your Baby
Newborn sessions allow plenty of time for feeds, winding, changing and settling. Babies are unpredictable, and that is completely normal, so please don’t worry if your little one needs breaks throughout the shoot. A full, comfortable baby is usually a sleepy baby, so we will follow their pace and take as much time as needed to ensure the session is calm and relaxed.
What Parents Should Wear
For parents, comfort is the main thing. You may be sitting, feeding, cuddling or helping settle your baby during the session, so wear something you feel relaxed in. If you would like to be included in a photo, soft neutral colours work beautifully and keep the focus on your baby. Do avoid large logos or very bold patterns, as simple clothing usually photographs best.
How Long the Session Takes
Newborn photoshoots can take up to three hours, although some sessions are quicker if baby settles easily. The extra time simply means there is no rush. Some babies need more feeds, some need more cuddles, and some drift off beautifully almost straight away. However the session unfolds, everything is kept calm, gentle and centred around your baby.
What Happens After Your Photoshoot
A week after your session, you will receive a link to your proofs in a private, online gallery. This consists of 30 – 40 images for you to look through & select the number of images included in your chosen package. Once I have your favourite list, I will complete the full & final edits, usually within another week. Your finished images are delivered through a private gallery, with access to a mobile app, and prints are arranged from there.
Before You Arrive
Before your session, try not to worry about having everything perfect. Newborn shoots are very flexible, and I expect babies to need feeding, changing and settling throughout. If you can, keep the morning calm and allow a little extra time so you are not rushing out of the house. Once you arrive, I will guide you through everything.