Lifestyle Newborn Session
Lifestyle newborn sessions have a special place in my heart. As a mother to two growing girls, I spend countless hours looking back on photographs from their baby days. New memories are being made every minute, it really goes by in the blink of an eye. To have a piece of those moments captured with the people you love, in this time of your lives, is priceless.
Before our time together I would love to get to know more about your family, what you love to do together, what each family members little quirks and special connections are. I want to create something unique for you and your family that really celebrates life with your newest addition.
Prepping for your Session
In order to get the most out of our session together, here are some tips to help prepare.... Don't worry they are all easy, you did just have a baby after all! ;)
Before Your Session:
A full baby is a happy baby, feed and change your baby shortly before the session starts
Warmth in the cooler months! To help keep your little one comfortable and sleepy before we arrive turn up the furnace a little, we recommend around 80 degrees, or pre-heat rooms with a space heater
Open blinds and curtains in your home to let light in. The more natural light the better!
Have a pacifier and cloth for baby spit up handy
Outdoor sessions: make sure to layer your baby clothing, little sweaters, bonnets, baby booties and blankets for example.
In Home:
Home are where memories are made. Those quiet mornings snuggling your tiny newborn in bed quickly turn into your energetic toddler getting into, well everything. This season really does goes by too quick, it deserves to be documented.
You may be wondering, “do I need to scrub my whole house?” Heck, no! The thought of getting everyone ready and having a sparkly clean Pinterest home is way too stressful. Decluttering is key. Move papers off of desks, stuff laundry baskets in your closet. Put away anything you don’t want to have photographed. Feel free to keep anything out that reflects your family life right now. A favourite stuffy, books, your favourite blankets.
Once we arrive, we will take a quick tour of the rooms you would like to photograph in and look for the best light. The master bedroom, nursery and living room are typically the most popular rooms for newborn sessions.
Don't forget the bedspread! We almost always take pictures in the master bedroom. Pick a bedspread that compliments your outfit choices.
Please note, during the session if we find an item that is distracting we will move it out of the way. We will sometimes move items around, and may climb on furniture to get some height for a shot. Don’t worry we’ll ask first!:)
In Studio:
Don’t love the idea of an in-home session, not to worry! There are some lovely local studios around Hamilton, with some wonderfully unique spaces.
Studio sessions have the same feel as in-home, they are lifestyle sessions that documents the bond between your family and little one. They are not posed studio sessions. We promise no elaborate outfits or props!
(One hour of studio time is included with your session fee)
Reach out and we are happy to share our favourite locations. :)
Golden Hour:
Heading outside for your newborn session is a lovely option in the warmer months. These sessions are shot at golden hour, evening or morning. They are great for families with older siblings, letting them roam and explore, while also capturing those quiet cuddly moments in the sun-kissed light.
What to wear:
Dress yourself in something light and casual. Remember that your session is at home or a home like setting (if in studio), so think bare feet, comfortable vibe that reflects you and your personal style.
Layers work great! Pairing simple basics with textured overlays. An example for mom: A Kimono or open sweaters work nicely over a casual dress.
For your baby, pick a neutral onesie, then some favourite accessories, like a knitted sweater, bonnet or booties.
Collect a few of your favourite baby blankets and wraps, we will also bring a couple along, along with a Moses basket.
Some things to try to avoid: Lettering on shirts, mixing too many patterns, neon colours, giant baby bows, or everyone dressing too matchy (example..dressing all in white or black).
Feeling stuck on your outfit choices? Send us a picture of your potential attire, we are happy to lend a helping hand.
Some items we love!
Clothing from left to right: Bee Honey Babies, Zara, The Kindred Studio, Etsy, Mini Mioche
Clothing from left to right: Bellies In Bloom, H&M, Roolee
During your session:
Remember this is a “lifestyle” session. Your baby may cry, fuss and that’s ok! We are here to capture real life with your little one. We will keep the session as relaxed as possible, and whether the baby is awake or sleeping we’ll get some beautiful moments. Your session will last between 1-2 hours, allowing time for feeding and changing your little one.
The sessions will involve both baby individually, and baby with parents and siblings. Lifestyle sessions don't include posing or props, but if you have a favourite swaddle, blanket, or baby book you would like to incorporate we would be happy to include those items in some photos.
After your session:
We will post a sneak peek 24 to 48 hours after your session. Three weeks or sooner you will receive an email with a link to your online gallery. Included will be collection password and download pin. Your online gallery will be available for one month, during that time you can download your gallery as many times as you wish.
What happens if the weather is bad or we are sick?
Typically rain is fine for session indoors. If your house is extremely dark and dreary on the day of your session feel free to message us and we’ll reschedule for a brighter day
If anyone in your family is sick we'll reschedule for a day you are all feeling better. If we are sick, we will do the same.
We hope this guide was helpful in preparing for your session. If you have any questions at all don't hesitate to reach out!