Becoming a parent is one of the most awesome experiences you can have. That magical moment when you hold your newborn child in your arms as you gaze down in wonder at the perfect little bundle of joy is one that you will remember forever. It’s the perfect photo opportunity to capture the memory!
A professional newborn photography shoot is a wonderful way to preserve your baby’s first few days in the big wide world. Just look at his perfect little features and soft skin and the angelic expression on his face as he lays sleeping. At this tender age, he will lie still and sleep pretty much anywhere – making the practicalities of a portrait photo shoot a total joy. And the best bit? In addition to being a proud new parent, you’ll be the proud owner of a beautiful set of professionally finished photographs to treasure the first moments of your baby’s life forever!
If you are considering a newborn photo shoot for your little darling, it makes sense to give some thought to the following 6 questions.
- How do I choose a photographer?
Word of mouth is always a good starting point. Ask around to see if any of your friends can recommend someone they’ve used recently, and take a look at the photos to see if it’s the sort of thing you’re envisaging for your shoot. Check the internet for photographers in your local area and research their portfolios and specialisations. Is there a Facebook page or Instagram account? Photography is such a personal thing and every photographer has his own style, so choose one whose work you love.
Many professional photographers now specialise in baby and newborn photo shoots. Go with someone that you feel comfortable being around and check if they offer the option of a home visit in addition to a studio shoot, to give you maximum flexibility.
- When is the best time to book?
Assuming that your chosen photographer has a busy diary of work, it makes sense to book as early as possible, especially if you want your newborn to be photographed in the first 10 days after arrival. The last thing you want to happen is for the shoot to be delayed because your photographer is unavailable! The more notice you can give them, the better. That said, you can obviously only fix a date once your baby has been born, so make sure you update your photographer accordingly.
- Who will be in the photos?
The main reason for commissioning a professional photo shoot is to have lots of gorgeous images of your little treasure, but he doesn’t have to be the only one in the pictures – the whole family can be involved! Mum & Baby, Dad & Baby, Mum, Dad & Baby, and all combinations and permutations involving siblings and even grandparents are possible to really welcome your little one into the family. Fast forward a decade or so, and your now 10-year-old will love to see the pictures of how everyone in the family celebrated his arrival all those years ago!
- What will I use the photos for?
Are you sending out birth announcements? Posting photographs to friends and family who live far away? Are you looking for printed photos or canvas prints to display around your house? A professional photographer will be able to supply all of those. In addition, you can buy digital files, meaning you can print images from your own computer or have them professionally printed – whether as pictures or posters, on gifts or t-shirts.
- What should my baby wear in the photos?
Believe it or not, babies look cutest in their birthday suits! Your photographer will have a selection of props that can be used in the shoot, so there’s no need for you to worry much about junior’s wardrobe. However, if you wish to bring a special outfit, or a blanket, toy or family heirloom, these can of course all be incorporated into the pictures to make them extra special.
- What outfits should I choose for everyone else?
As a rule of thumb, casual clothing makes everyone feel more at ease, so a simple T-shirt and jeans may be the only dress code required. Just make sure that the colours don’t clash. Everyone should do well to remember that this is not a fashion show and that no-one should be upstaging the main attraction: your new arrival. Perhaps formal family portraits could wait until junior is a little older, say his christening?
Article provided by Mike James, an independent content writer working together with London based photographer Boggio Studios, who were consulted over this post.