When should I schedule my newborn session?
We will tentatively schedule your session for about 6-8 days after your due date. As your due date approaches make sure to keep me filled in on any changes. Once you know when you will be arriving home please have someone call me to get scheduled that week.
If your baby was just born and is less than 14 days old, call today!
What age do you recommend for newborn portraits?
A newborn is BEST to photograph in the first 5-14 days of life. After 14 days old, most babies are typically more alert, may have baby acne and a colic are common at this age.
This is not to say after 14 days we can’t do a newborn session. We will just plan accordingly to your babies age and sleep/feeding habits.
Where do you recommend for the newborn session?
Brio Art offers newborn sessions at our portrait studio in Hopkins, MN or at your home.
- I will have the studio very warm for the day of your session (78+ degrees).
- If we are doing the session at you home please plan to have your house warm or put a space heater in the room we will be photographing in. The room with the most natural light will be ideal. This will help make your baby feel warm and cozy especially when they are naked. A newborn session can take up to 4 hours.
How should I prepare for my session?
I recommend planning ahead so we can, to the best of our abilities, have your baby sleepy for the session. For the best result a full tummy = tired baby. If you can try and keep your baby awake for about an hour before your session, it will make them sleepier for me when you arrive. Also have them a bit hungry before you arrive and I’ll ask you to feed them once you get here.
Mom’s please try to avoid any caffeine before the session if you are breast feeding. This will in turn make your baby more active and they may not sleep very well.
Also plan to loosen their diaper & clothing an hour or so before our session, it will help prevent red marks or diaper creases from showing up on your baby’s skin. Also avoid putting them in clothing that will be difficult to remove. This will in turn wake them up. I recommend just a diaper and warm blanket.
What outfits should I plan for?
While most of their newborn session we will have them naked for there are a few items you can plan to bring with. If there is a special blanket or accessory you would like to have your baby photographed with please let me know ahead of time so I can coordinate.
What should Mom or Dad wear?
Something comfortable and light, remember the studio will be warm. No graphics, bold stripes or prints. Bring an extra change of clothes in case your baby has an accident on you.
What happens if… No matter what your baby does, please know that I am always relaxed. I have photographed many, many newborn sessions and have seen everything. This session is supposed to be a special experience for you and I don’t want you stressed if the baby starts to cry. There will be plenty of time allowed for your session. If we need to take a break to feed, walk, rock, etc. we can do that. We want you to enjoy the experience of your session and this special bonding moment.
Check list for your session & what to pack:
– blankets that are special to you (made by grandma, embroidered with baby name, matches nursery, etc.), hats or booties you love, diaper cover, plain onsie, fun personal items that represent a hobby, favorite sports team, family heirlooms, etc.
– Feeding supplies: anything you will need to nurse or bottle feed your baby.
– A pacifier, this may be needed to help soothe baby. If you are nursing you may not be using a pacifier regularly yet.
– A few extra diapers. I say 5-8 to be safe.
– A set of light/comfy clothes to wear while your baby’s photos are being taken. A set of clothes to wear for a family photo (remembering no logos or busy prints please). Extra clothes encase your baby has an accident on you, which may very well happen.
– Food for Mom or Dad: You may build up an appetite over the course of the session.
