3 Best Tips From Your Ottawa Newborn Photographer
One of the most frequently asked questions that I receive as an Ottawa Newborn Photographer is “how do I prepare my baby for their newborn session?” I absolutely love this question! By preparing your baby for their first photography experience, you’re setting the stage for a comfortable session that is attuned to your baby’s needs. A little preparation from you goes a long way, allowing me to freeze time for your family during those precious few hours.
Depending on your recovery, as well as your family’s transition into this wildly beautiful life with a newborn at home, your session will likely take place when baby is one to two weeks old. These very early weeks are often unpredictable, and may not include a routine. This is where I come in! Here are the 3 best tips from your Ottawa Newborn Photographer to help you prepare your newborn for their session – beginning with their newborn baby’s wake hour.
Your Ottawa newborn’s wake window
If you are hoping for heartfelt and romantic imagery of you adoring your beautiful, sleeping baby, try to keep your little one awake for 1.5 to 2 hours before your session. This can be a great task for fathers and other primary caregivers while you enjoy some pampering with in-home hair and makeup services. Just like you, babies are adjusting, and their wake windows can change suddenly. I do my very best to ensure we meet your vision and capture those tender, sleepy moments with your baby. However, I promise you that images of your baby, if they wake, are just as beautiful, heartfelt, and timeless — this is why I let babies set the pace, and is one of the best 3 tips from your Ottawa Newborn Photographer for your baby’s first session!
Feedings for your newborn baby
Your baby’s sleep and wake windows go hand-in-hand with feedings. When it comes to newborn photography in Ottawa, I encourage you to finish feeding your beautiful little bundle just as I arrive or shortly after – this ensures that your baby is well-fed, happy, and ready for a cozy nap! Many newborns may still need to feed during their session, especially if they’re cluster feeding, and that’s perfectly fine. I recommend having a bottle ready to go. If you are nursing and comfortable with me photographing this special bond you’re creating with your baby, I am honoured to do so! However you choose to feed your baby, it is a wonderful time for everyone to relax & enjoy the moment. Additionally, having a pacifier on hand can help soothe your baby between shots.
Dressing your Ottawa newborn baby
Lastly, dress your baby in a sleeper or an outfit that’s easy to transition into a swaddle or their session outfit upon my arrival. This approach not only keeps your baby comfortable but also helps maintain their cozy state. Holding off on dressing your little one until I arrive ensures that their clothing remains dry and soil-free, which is especially important for those first few hours. It also allows your baby to stay warm and snug, preventing any unnecessary tears before we start. Once I arrive, I will gently swaddle baby, ensuring they feel secure and relaxed. This transition during newborn photography in Ottawa is key to capturing those peaceful, dreamy shots we all love!
Just remember – in addition to the 3 best tips from your Ottawa Newborn Photographer, I will be there to guide you throughout the session, ensuring we capture the genuine connection between you and your little one while telling your unique story through my lens.
Do you have questions or want to learn more about the Brooke Lacombe Photography Portraiture Experience? Send me an email! I would love the opportunity to connect via a Welcome Call, learn your story, and discuss how I can preserve your newborn baby’s homecoming!
