Seattle Newborn Photography In Home | How do I prepare for my in home Newborn Photoshoot?

So you have decided that you would like to have your newborn photoshoot in your home! Great choice by the way! 🤗 But now you are wondering how to prepare. In this article I will share with you what you need to do to prepare, even if you are having your in home newborn photoshoot with another photographer, these tips will help you have the absolute best newborn photography experience possible!

1. Schedule your photoshoot in the late morning.

I typically like to arrive at 10:00am. This is for a couple of reasons. For one, having had three newborns of my own AND having photographed hundreds if not thousands of newborns over the years, I know that babies are happier and more calm in the morning. They just are. A calm baby allows you to relax into the session but also allows me, the photographer to work faster so that you can get. back to what is really important, and that is bonding with your new baby.

Second reason I like to photograph newborns in the home in the late morning is because that is when the light is the best indoors. Again, after photographing thousands of newborns and having been just as many homes, I know that no matter what the light is best and most consistent late morning indoors.

2. Don’t spend a ton of time cleaning your house before I arrive! Yes, you heard me right.

Like I said, I have had three newborns of my own. I know how intense that newborn period is. I don’t want your photoshoot with me to cause you any kind of stress. When I arrive I will take a short walk through of your home and choose the few areas that we will take the photos. Then I can help you quickly tidy up and clear any clutter in that area. There is zero need for you to clean the whole house when we likely will only be on the master bed or the couch. Promise!

3. Gather any blankets, outfits, or special items before I arrive.

If you have anything special you would like to be included in the photoshoot, it’s best to get those together before I arrive. I recommend a securely fitted onesie in a neutral color and also neutral colored swaddle blankets. Newborns are small, they don’t photograph well in dresses, outfits with colors, or outfits with bold patterns or graphics. Simple is better.

I don’t bring any blankets or outfits. it is more hygienic to use your own blankets and the baby will be more cozy in something that smells like home.

4. If it is winter, turn up the thermostat to 70 degrees. If it is summer, i will likely close the windows to avoid drafts.

This one is obvious. Babies are happier in a warm environment.

5. Feed the baby and any other kiddos before I arrive.

This one is also obvious. Babies are happier with full bellies but so are toddlers and kiddos. Oh and parents too! I love to take breastfeeding and bottle feeding newborn photos so there is plenty of time for that too. But it’s nice to start out with a happy fed baby if possible.

That is all!! Your newborn photoshoot should not be stressful and it should not take all day. I will be in and out in under two hours and you will have a gallery full of photos to help you remember this very special time! I can’t wait to capture you and your family soon!

When should I book my newborn photos? Seattle Newborn Photographer

First off, congratulations! You are pregnant and entering into a very exciting time! OR maybe you already had the baby and are running on little sleep and baby snuggles! Either way, you are curious about when is the right time to book your newborn photoshoot!

I like to photograph babies within the first four weeks.

My style is natural and simple, however truth is, newborns change fast! So if you are up for it, it is best to try and have your newborn photos taken in the first month. This allows me to capture all the newborn details and moments.

When is the best time to reach out about a newborn photoshoot in the Seattle area?

If you can, contact me while you are pregnant. This allows me to hold a place in my calendar for your photoshoot. This also allows you the option to book a Maternity photo shoot as well! BUT if you don’t book while pregnant, no biggie, just contact me as soon as you think about it so we can get your session on the calendar.

Will siblings and family members be included during my newborn’s photoshoot?

YES! My style focuses on the entire family. I come into your home to capture your baby but also your family and the connection between family members.

Do you ever get booked up for newborn sessions?

Typically no! I always leave room in my schedule for newborn photoshoots!

Get To Know Elena S Blair Associate Seattle Family Photographer, Rachael

Get To Know Elena S Blair Associate Seattle Family Photographer, Rachael

Tell us a little about yourself!

Hi! My name is Rachael. I’m a 28 year old mother to two babies and a bonus mama to one  not-so baby. I grew up in Northern California, and moved up to Washington state in 2015. I love all things outdoors(hiking, gardening, fishing). When I’m not out exploring with my family, I love to create and work with my hands. Lots of arts and craft time in my house! 

Why do you love photographing families?

There is something really special about capturing peoples personalities and emotions through photographs, especially children.  Plus, it’s FUN! Lifestyle family sessions are casual, and super playful. Even when photographing a new family, I feel like I’ve made a few new friends by the end of it. 

What is your favorite type of location to capture a family and why?

Anywhere in the PNW! Trees! Lots of trees. My favorite color is green ;)

When did you become a photographer?

I don’t want to sound cliche or anything, but I think I’ve always been one. It’s something that has always come naturally to me, since my very early teens. I guess you could say I became a “real” photographer, when I started doing it for a living nearly 4 years ago.

Do you have any more session dates left on your fall calendar?

Yep! While fall tends to be  the busiest time of year for us photographers, I always try to accommodate when I can! Send us a message and I’ll see what I can do to get you on the calendar!

Can special props be used during my Newborn Photoshoot? | Seattle Newborn Photography

It is no secret that I DO NOT like to use props.

I personally feel like props take away from the simple beauty that is a newborn baby and their family. I sincerely believe that newborns are perfect as they are and that photographs of them should reflect that simple, serene beauty. My focus during a newborn photoshoot is the connection between the newborn and their family members.

My recommendation is that baby wear a fitted, neutral color onesie what can easily be removed. I like to capture babies bare skin.

But what if i have a special prop or outfit I want used during my shoot?

If you have a special prop that has meaning like a family heirloom or a special outfit that you would like your baby to wear that is no problem. We can take a few photos with the prop or in the outfit for your memories. I understand that there are instances when these items help make a photo shoot special.

Gather all items like blankets, outfits, and special props prior to my arrival.

Time is of the essence so make sure to gather anything you would like include in your photoshoot before I show up.

Photographing newborns in their home is my favorite! I can’t wait to capture you and yours soon!

Preparing For Your In Home Newborn Photography Session | Seattle Newborn Photography

So you booked your in home newborn session. Now what? You may be wondering how to prepare.

First things first. You just had a baby. if this is your first or your fourth your whole world was just rocked. You are sleep deprived and probably a little overwhelmed. Last thing I want is for you to be stressed out about your newborn session.

My tips for preparation are simple.

1. Plan to wear comfortable clothing in neutral tones. You want these images to be timeless and I find that neutral tones are best for that. Also, I don’t want you to be even the slightest bit uncomfortable. Wear what feels comfortable and true to your style.

2. If it is winter, turn your thermostat up to about 70. 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.

3. Photography time is not a time to have guests over. Grandparents or special out of town guests who are staying with you… sure. But it’s best not to have other friends and family stop by during out shoot. I want to be in out quickly so that you can get back to baby cuddles and guests tend to distract the whole fam.

4. Don’t clean the house. Shocked to hear that one? Well I stand by it. You just had a baby. Last thing you need to be doing is cleaning. I will tidy up the areas I am going to photograph you and your baby in as I go.

5. If there are siblings involved, let them know I am coming. Tell them a friend is coming to take some photos. If we had a maternity session together remind them of our time spent and maybe even show them the photos as a reminder. It’s best not to surprise them.

6. Gather any wraps, blankets, or other clothing you think baby may need before I arrive. This will help me work a bit more efficiently.

Lifestyle Newborn Photography is a laid back and beautiful way to capture this very special time for your family. I promise to make the experience fun and meaningful. I can’t wait to capture you and yours!