A gude to Calgary Newborn Photography Prep
Welcome to the world, little one. You might be going through an identity loss crisis, lack of sleep, "some" anxiety or all of it at the same time. Breathe! It is a lot to take in, and you want to preserve this special moment by welcoming your little one to the world. Look at how tiny and adorable they are. I totally get it; I have two of those myself. I, too, have gone through the ups and downs of motherhood. I have created a guide on newborn photography in Calgary to lend you a hand. That way, you don't have to stress about everything and will be better prepared for what to expect.
1) Booking
Booking your session is the first step. I usually encourage parents to book a tentative date within two weeks after their expected due date. As a full-time photographer, I book out two weeks to a month in advance, and I want to make sure I can accommodate your schedule when your little one arrives. If you already have a photographer in Calgary in mind, you can contact them to inquire about availability and ensure they can get you in for a session. Parents should book newborn photos within two weeks of their due date. That way, your little one is little and can be maneuvered very easily for photos. If you deliver sooner or later or need more recovery time, that's okay. That is why we booked a tentative session; that way, you have the flexibility to move the date by a week ahead of back. If you have a preemie warrior, please take the time to book one. Your little one needs to be strong for their debut photoshoot.
2) Location
I always recommend newborn sessions be done in the comfort of your home. This minimizes your stress levels, lets you know everything is within reach, and creates a more intimate family fun experience. The last thing I want to do is add any more stress to my overwhelmed parents. Your job is to enjoy cuddles with your baby! And I looooove lifestyle newborn shoots!
3) Packages
Newborn sessions are not a rushed job. Your little one needs extra careful care and handling to wrap, prop, feed, change, cuddle, and be photographed. Therefore, I require a minimum of one hour for newborn photos. This time allows for a couple of photos of your little one alone, photos of parents with a baby, and some with a sibling if you have additional littles in the home.
4) Pre-shoot prep
Now, the time has come for your session! Oh, the nerves, but really, take a breath! The house doesn't need to be clean or tidy, and you don't have to have full make-up on (unless you feel comfortable that way). You are parents, and I have been there, too! The priority is your little one, so you don't have to stress over that! I always recommend your home to be set at a comfortable temperature for yourselves, pre-feed your little one, have a pacifier nearby if baby needs extra soothing, gently "wash" your baby with a soft cloth and moisturize them with a light moisturizer, have some extra milk on the side if baby needs a snack (we can also pause for you to comfortable feed your little one, no rush), prep any wraps or family outfits in neutral and cohesive colour pallet you would like to incorporate into your session (usually neutrals and pastels are a great choice), have your little one in a clean diaper so they are comfortable and a small space by a window for photos. Also, once I arrive, you can show me spots you like in your home, and we can combine different locations around your space.
5) The shoot
I have arrived! But it's not as dramatic as it sounds, I promise! I bring baskets, wraps in various colours, blankets and little props to further personalize your session for posed photos of your little one. They are all washed in a non-scented gentle detergent to ensure your little one does not have an allergic reaction. The session usually begins with me washing my hands from any germs and photos of your baby while you can get ready hands-free. You are always welcome to observe the baby and what your little one looks like in the little basket. Then, we move on to photos with family members. If you have hired a photographer you are unfamiliar with, please ensure your littles are well-positioned and wrapped to avoid injuries. Babies are fragile in their formative years, so we want to ensure they are taken with the utmost care when being photographed. This means adequate support for their head to prevent any breathing blockage, bending of limbs that make them upset, poses like the "frog prose" that can dislocate or injure their joints from pressure or danger of falling or tipping over when photographed, being positioned on soft material as opposed to rough materials that can scratch their skin. Another tip is to have snacks nearby for any other kiddos in the session in case they need a break.
6) Then what?
After your session concludes, you will receive your images within a week to two weeks in an online gallery. It is my job to go through them in great detail and post-process them. Of course, eczema and scratches are removed to give your baby a more natural appearance without being overly edited. And voila! You are all done, and you can print your gorgeous photos to display in your home!
Holy moly, you made it, and you are probably ready for a nap after all of that. But I promise it is not as intense or stressful as you might think! As your photographer, I am here to guide you and provide a stress-free experience. Believe me when I say I have seen it all, so nothing can raddle me or shock me as much as my two lovely gremlins, er, children, have done already.