WELCOME GUIDE
PREPARING THE FAMILY
This section of the guide will help you to get you and your family ready for your session.
PREPARING YOUR FAMILY
YOUR NEWBORN SESSION
TEMPERATURE
If it is winter, turn your thermostat up to about 21 celsius. It is nice to have a warm house so I can take photos of the baby when the baby is unwrapped and still manage to keep baby cozy
FEEDING YOUR BABY AND SNACKS
I take a baby-led approach during the session. This means we can always stop for you to feed (or change) your baby and I’m happy to photograph those authentic moments of breastfeeding and other everyday routines if you agree. Also feel free to ask for a break for snack and drinks whenever you need
PROPS
+ I like to keep newborn photos as natural as possible as props can make your photos looking dated and distracting. I only use meaningful props.
+ If there is anything you’d like to incorporate in your images, like a swaddle blanket or clothing, please gather them before I arrive. This will help me work a bit more efficiently.
TODDLER
If you have a toddler, I recommend setting aside the favorite lovey or blanket so we can use it for comfort in case we need. It is normal for toddlers to have a lot of loud emotions during the early days with a new sibling. You can read more about how to prepare your toddler in this blog post.
GUESTS (IN-HOME SESSION)
A newborn photo session is not the time to have guests over, including grandparents and close family and friends. I like to be quick so you can go back to enjoy your home life and new baby as soon as possible. Please inform potential guests to wait for after I’m gone to visit you.
What if your baby cries a lot during the session?
I’ll take a baby-led approach during your session. So, if your baby is unsettled for any reason, or needs regular feedings on that day, I’ll follow your baby’s cues.
And we will adjust the session flow accordingly. My main priority is that your session feels relaxing. And that your baby feels comforted and loved.
PREPARING
YOUR CHILDREN
THE MOST IMPORTANT!
Please make sure your children are well rested and fed before your session.
MANAGING BEHAVIOR
+ I recommend talking to your children often about the session to help them to anticipate and get excited about the experience. Describe what it looks like to have their portraits taken: following directions (sitting, standing still), hugging, playing games.
+ Try to refer me as a “friend” as your child will feel safer around a family friend versus a completely stranger.
+ Some families opt for giving children a special treat after the session as an incentive to get them to cooperate during the session.
+ When you’re preparing for your session, it is normal for parents to feel stressed or high energy. So, try to keep yourself in check. Your children will feel your energy (positive or negative) and will respond to it.
+ During the session, there is no need to ask your children to smile at the camera or to behave in a certain way. Try to focus on loving and having fun with your children. Leave the posing & directing to me
+ For older babies & toddlers: it might be helpful to bring a beloved soft toy for comfort (but don’t let them see it). We will use it only if needed.
What if your toddler doesn’t “cooperate”?
Young children are not usually fond of being told to pose or smile. Crying and tantrums are a normal part of working with these tiny people during a photo session.
Just keep yourself calm and joyful. And smile a lot. Your children will follow your lead.
And please keep realistic expectations. 🙂
PREPARING YOUR FAMILY
EMOTIVE IMAGES
THE BEST POSSIBLE THINGS PARENTS CAN DO TO GET THOSE EMOTIVE IMAGES
+ Come to your family session willing to be PLAYFUL, LOVING, and OPEN to all sorts of emotions and natural moments.
+ Get down to your children’s level and play, engage, be silly and present.
+ Be “EXTRA” affectionate, playful, present, funny, or whatever you do to show love and connection to your children and your partner/spouse. Imagine that your session day is like that very special celebration, like your child’s birthday or your anniversary. A reason to go the extra mile to connect with your family.
+ When you arrive at your session, try to “press” the RESET bottom. Leave behind anything or any emotion that does not serve you. And embrace all the love you share for your family.