In-Home Newborn Session Prep & What to Expect with Alysha Sanford Photography
Newborn sessions are arguably my favorite session type. Going at baby’s pace, we spend our session time together with a fair mix of soothing and documenting the details of your sweet new baby. Most sessions will begin with the family posing. I want you to be fully prepared for your session and am sharing some details below to help with that.
What is helpful for a successful in-home newborn session?
• Having one or more areas with good natural light for baby-led posing. (A sliding glass door, a room with a large window, etc.)
• A decluttered spot in the nursery, living room and/or master bedroom for that cozy lifestyle magic. Don’t worry about deep cleaning, especially during those early post-partum days!
• A warm temp in the home for baby’s comfort.
• Soothing background music playlists are a bonus!
Additional in-home session details:
Wall colors and lighting will affect the overall look of your images. If you have cream or white bedding, please have it ready for the master bedroom as it is helpful to lighten the space.
I use minimalist “sets” and posing, keeping the focus on your sweet new baby. For in-home sessions, I focus on more of a lifestyle approach, using your home as the background for the majority of your session. For images of baby alone, I love to photograph them in the nursery or laying on the master bed. If you have a special item that you would like photographed with baby, please let me know! I will try my best to work it into your session. If you are planning to book additional milestone sessions during baby’s first year and have an item that you would like photographed with baby as he or she grows, please have it ready as well!
Keepsake Session Packages: Expect 1-1.5 hours for a simplified session with one or two main set ups.
Full Heirloom Sessions: Expect up to 2-3 hours to go at baby’s pace, move through a handful of set ups and my posing workflow and document macro images of baby’s tiniest features (eyelashes, toes, etc.).
Please make sure that all family members are as rested & fed as possible prior to your session.
Have baby changed & fed just prior to the start time, if possible.
Try not to apply shiny or greasy lotion to baby post-bath.
Siblings: While I understand that parents may feel the need to correct behaviors of siblings during the session, I ask that I’m able to take the lead and redirect their attention. If kiddos are getting rowdy, I will try a few things to before correction and/or discipline would be needed. I will do my best to keep the environment calm but also playful to capture those true candids.
What to wear for baby: I typically wrap or swaddle baby in cozy textures. I have a few snug fitting and neutral newborn outfits that will ensure that your photos remain timeless through the changing trends. I also offer a selection of headbands and hats to choose from. These are items that I will bring for you to select from, but I’m also happy to look through some of your favorite items for baby!
What to wear for family: Neutral colors, simple patterns and soft textures are always great to keep the focus on baby and to keep the photos displayed in your home feeling timeless year-round. You're welcome to email me photos of any outfits you're deciding between. If you'd like additional inspiration when choosing your family's outfits, visit the Pinterest board link I’ve included in your prep emails.
If breastfeeding: Try to watch out for common baby belly irritants. Acidic foods: citrus fruits, most berries, tomatoes, pizza, spaghetti, spicy foods & caffeine. Gassy veggies: asparagus, onions, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage & brussel sprouts.
Thank you for allowing me the honor of photographing your family during this special time! If you have any questions that weren’t covered, please shoot me an email via the contact tab or directly to hello@alyshasanfordphoto.com.