This preparation guide is designed to help ensure that your session runs smoothly. If you’re unable to follow any of the guidelines, don’t worry! I’ll do everything I can to accommodate your needs and ensure we capture the timeless images you envision. Whether it involves gently rocking your little one for extra time or taking several breaks for feeding or cuddling, I am happy to work with you!

Before the Session:

• Baby’s Bath: Please give your baby a bath the day before the session to ensure they are clean and comfortable.

• Diet Considerations: If you are breastfeeding, kindly avoid consuming spicy or gas-inducing foods (such as pizza, spicy sauces, garlic, broccoli, Thai/Indian cuisine, and high-fat foods) for at least 24 hours before the session. A more neutral, bland diet during this period will help prevent any tummy discomfort for your baby.

• Circumcision: If your baby boy has been circumcised, please avoid scheduling the session within 6 days of the procedure. Newborn boys will not be photographed if the circumcision occurred less than 6 days prior to the session, as tight wrapping and posing can cause discomfort on tender areas.

Day of the Session:

• Keeping Baby Awake: To ensure your baby sleeps soundly during the session, please keep them awake for at least 2 hours before the session. This helps facilitate deep, peaceful sleep during the photoshoot. Try activities like a bath, undressing your baby, gently tickling their feet, or lightly wetting their feet to keep them alert.

• Feeding & Pacifier: Please have a bottle of formula or breast milk ready for the session, as well as a pacifier, if you are open to using one. The pacifier can be a helpful tool in soothing your baby back to sleep during the session, especially if we encounter any moments of fussiness. If you are not comfortable with the use of a pacifier, kindly let me know, and we will proceed according to your preferences.

• Feeding Before Arrival: Ensure your baby has a full feeding before you arrive to the studio, so we can maximize the time spent capturing beautiful images.

• Dress Baby Comfortably: Dress your baby in loose-fitting clothes to avoid any marks or lines on their skin. A front-opening onesie is ideal, as it prevents any discomfort from pulling clothing over your baby’s head.

During the Session:

• Studio Temperature: The studio will be kept warm to ensure your baby stays comfortable, and a small space heater will also be used if needed. Please dress in layers to keep yourself comfortable throughout the session.

• Session Duration: A typical newborn session lasts approximately 3 hours, though if older siblings are involved, it may extend to 4 hours.

• Rest & Relaxation: Please take advantage of the time to relax and rest. While I generally do not require assistance, I’ll be sure to ask if I need anything from you.

• Guest Limit: To create a calm, focused environment, I recommend limiting the number of people present during the session to immediate family members (yourself, spouse/partner, children, and one additional guest if necessary). Too many people can be distracting and impact the overall creative process.

Photography Etiquette:

• No Personal Cameras: I kindly ask that you refrain from using personal cameras or phones camera during the session. I understand this is a special time in your life, and while I know you want to capture these moments, the presence of another camera can be distracting. I work hard to create unique, artistic images for you, and I ask for your respect and understanding in this matter. You will receive all of your final images within two weeks after the session, and I promise it will be worth the wait,

  I understand that you may want to capture behind-the-scenes moments during your session. While personal photos are not permitted, I am happy to allow behind-the-scenes videos! Feel free to take videos of the session as long as they do not interfere with the creative process or distract from the work being done. Please ensure that video recordings are done respectfully and discreetly.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. I look forward to capturing beautiful memories with you and your family!