Studio 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. Once we are finished with any siblings, I encourage a parent/guardian to take them out to a quick lunch, the park behind the studio, or shop downtown for a break while we finish baby’s individual photos. If it’s helpful to arrive with two vehicles, please do! I want you to be fully prepared for your session and am sharing some details below to help with that.
Studio address: 212 SE Locust St. Oakland, OR 97462
• The studio is called Cultivate Creative Space, located in the beautiful 1905 Oakland Ice House. It is a good 20 minutes north of Roseburg, OR, so I kindly ask that clients allow an extra 10 minutes for travel time to avoid late arrivals. This creative space/studio is a second business that I launched in the spring of 2024, and I rent it out by the hour to other creatives and business owners. If you follow me on social media, you may already be aware, but the space offers a mix of gorgeous, historic brick walls, white/cream accent walls and charming elements including a gas fireplace to heat the space. You can see more studio details and photos here. Please note that your photography session booking with me includes studio use and access during that time, but if you would like to reserve the space for a purpose outside of our photo session together, you can do so at the link I just shared.
• I use minimalist “sets” and posing, keeping the focus on your sweet new baby. If you have a special item that you would like photographed with baby, please bring it! 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, have an item that you would like photographed with baby as he or she grows, please bring that 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 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 prior to arrival, if possible.
• Try not to apply shiny or greasy lotion to baby post-bath.
Supplies to bring: typical diaper bag items including extra diapers, a pacifier and bottle making supplies if needed, clothing options for all family members (ideally lighter tones, simple patterns and softer textures), any snacks desired and a sentimental item if you’d like it photographed with baby. If bottle feeding, please bring a thermos of warm water.
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.
What to wear for family: I keep the studio warm for baby’s comfort. Dress your family in layers if needed, to be more comfortable after family posing. 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. When you arrive, you’ll also be able to look through my client closet for moms, toddlers and infants.
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.