The session flows best when we have a sleepy baby. So here are a few things that could help ensure that your baby will sleep.
1. Please give baby a bath in the morning before coming in for the session. This will stimulate baby and help baby tire out. Lotioning your baby after the bath will also help with pressure points and relaxation. Allowing your baby to kick and be free for around 10-15 minutes will also help tire them out.
2. Dress baby in a zip up sleeper, or a button up. NO undershirt please! We do not want any clothing we have to pull over top of the baby's head.
3. Before you leave the house for your session, Please FEED baby. This will allow baby to fall into a deep sleep while you are driving to the studio.
BOTTLE
Some new babies struggle to get the hang of breastfeeding in the first few weeks OR they are cluster feeders. Please bring a bottle of pumped milk or formula just incase we need it.
PLEASE BRING A PACIFIER
We will only use the pacifier if baby is having trouble transitioning into different poses. Sometimes a baby just needs to suck for a few seconds to relax. This does not mean that they are hungry. However, if they are rooting for longer, we will give baby to mom for a feed and a snuggle.
IF you are worried about nipple confusion, As a mother of 2 children, I can assure you that the few seconds or minutes of a pacifier will not affect them. They will always prefer the breast with milk over a dry pacifier. However, refusing a pacifier during your session could make your session go longer by several hours.
WHAT TO WEAR
Please wear something neutral or soft colours. A white or black shirt will also work well. You do not need to match your spouse. Variety does look nice.
Please AVOID wearing anything with LOGOS or something that you want photoshopped out. Please note that it will be HOT in the studio. There is a sitting area for Dads to hang out when they are done their portion of the session. Please keep in mind that a thick sweater, most likely will have you sweating in seconds. So please keep things Light. Think like you will be hanging out in a HOT YOGA studio:)
Generally I will crop the parent and family images so that only the upper body will be shown. Please view the images below for a general idea on studio family posing!
Small children will be laying on their back with their newborn sibling wrapped securely. Perhaps show your child these pictures so they know what to expect ahead of time!
Bringing bribery is an excellent idea, but not something messy like chocolate. Think gummies or something they really love!
5 years old and up will be able to sit up or lay down with their siblings
The studio room will be hot and the newborn session can last between 2-3 hours. We will begin the session with siblings, and then parents and family shots.
Please note that for the newborn session, I kindly request that only the children being photographed are present during the session. If you have other children accompanying you, I recommend either arranging for two vehicles to allow for their transportation home after their part is complete, or having a helper or dad take them out to eat at one of the nearby restaurants downtown. This allows dad and the other children to enjoy some quality time together while mom stays with the baby to complete the session. This makes it easier for mom to relax and enjoy the newborn session to the full.
There is only room in the studio for two adults to hang out during the session.
The session typically takes place from Mid-Morning and may extend past the lunch hour. I will provide snacks and water to keep you refreshed throughout the session. Moms are welcome to snack in the studio room during the session, and you are also welcome to bring your own snacks if you prefer something specific.