Thank you for giving me the privilege of photographing your beautiful baby!
This guide will help you prepare for your newborn photoshoot session and hopefully answer any questions.
Feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions.
Let's Dive In
The most important thing to remember is that your baby will be in charge of the session and will determine how the session goes. I will only do what your baby is comfortable and happy with. My newborn sessions focus on the baby’s comfort, safety and happiness. My goal during our session is to have you sit back and relax and I will take care of the rest.
Location
I am a Newborn Photographer in Mullingar.
Studio Address:
Cartron, Knockdrin, Mullingar,
Co. Westmeath N91 RT9Y
Before the Day of the Session
- Once the baby arrives send me a message with the baby’s name and date of birth.
- Please let me know how you and the baby are feeling. We can finalise the date and time of the session then. Please send across any balance payment before the day of your newborn photoshoot session.
- To help me tailor your newborn photoshoot to your preferences, please visit my Instagram page (sabrinaireland.photography) and select 4-5 photos that you particularly like. This will give me a better understanding of your style and preferences. Alternatively, you can search for newborn photos on Google and share any images you love. I will do my best to recreate those moments for you.
- Organise your outfits for the session. Please read this Style Guide for more details on what to wear for your session.
- Opt for neutral colors and earthy toned clothes
- Steer clear of bright coloured clothes
- Ensure that nails are clipped and clean
- Ensure that your clothing is clean, pressed, and free from wrinkles
- Comfort is Key
Session Day Baby Prep
Sleep:
A sleepy baby makes for the best newborn photos. Try to keep your baby awake for at least 2 hours before the session. A warm bath can help. Keeping them awake during the car ride is also beneficial.
Feeding:
If you live nearby, feed your baby right before you leave. If you live more than 45 minutes away, feed your baby 2-3 hours prior and again when you arrive at the studio. Bring extra bottles and burp cloths, as babies tend to feed more during the session.
What to Bring
- Dress your baby in loose clothing to avoid waking them when undressing.
- Bring a neutral-coloured vest or baby grow
- Extra bottles of milk if bottle feeding
- Extra diapers and wipes
- Pacifier (even if not usually used). This will help sooth the baby during the session and is a game changer.
- Baby’s blanket
- Any special items or outfits you want to include in the photos.
- Extra clothes for you and your partner (in case of spit ups and accidents).
- Snacks and water for yourselves.
- A couple of toys for siblings if they will be joining.
Photographing Siblings
Newborn sessions generally take 2-3 hours. Young children can get bored. We can schedule sibling photos at the beginning or at the end. I recommend bringing siblings in later or having someone take them out during the session. I normally suggest you ask a family member to drop the siblings in after the newborn photos are done. You could also either bring two cars so that one parent/family member can take the sibling( s ) back home after we finish with family images (if you want the sibling photos at the beginning), or have your spouse/partner take the sibling( s ) out on err ands or grab a snack while we finish the newborn photos and then bring them in for the family photos at the end. I recommend we do the sibling photos towards the end as I do not want to make them wait while we feed baby and prep baby for the photos.
* *Please let me know via a text message or a phone call (at least two days before the session) if you plan to have the sibling photos first as I will have to set up my studio accordingly.
During the Session
- On Arrival: If your baby is fed, we’ll start right away. If not, take your time to feed them.
- Safety: Your baby’s safety is my top priority. A parent will assist as a spotter as I like to be extra cautious and safe when it comes to your little one. We’ll stop the session if the baby shows any signs of distress.
- Temperature: The studio will be warm for the baby’s comfort. Dress lightly or in layers as you could get very warm.
- Accidents & Mess: It's normal for babies to have accidents such as poop explosions and spit ups. Don't worry if that happens; I’m prepared, and everything is cleaned after each session.
- Props: I have a variety of props, but you’re welcome to bring your own if it carries sentimental value. Please send a photo of any items at least two days before.
- No cameras are allowed during the session. Leave that task to me.
After the Session
- I take great care to go over all of your images and pick out the perfect moments .
- I do not limit the number of images in the gallery. Expect your pre-view gallery in 2 weeks, with a minimum of 25 images.
- Once I have pre-edited your photos I will upload them to Pixieset ( this is a photo gallery hosting website). Your gallery will be password protected and the link will be sent to you via email.
- Choose your favourites within one week to expedite final delivery.
- The number of photos you receive will depend on the package you selected. If you would like additional photos after viewing your preview gallery, you have the option to purchase extra images. Only the images you select (number of images included in your package + any extras) will be in your final gallery, you will not receive all the photos in the pre-view gallery as they are not completely edited.
- Final edits of your selected photos take 3-4 weeks. (To know more about why professional editing makes a difference click here.) You will receive a download link to download the final selected photos.
- Prints and keepsake products will be ready for collection 4-6 weeks after the final gallery is delivered.
Thank you again for choosing me to capture this special moment. I am honoured to document this incredible time in your lives and look forward to getting to meeting you and your baby.
If you have any questions or special requests, please feel free to contact me.