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Hello

 

 This prep guide helps ensure a successful newborn session with your precious new baby.

 

Timing is crucial for a newborn photoshoot, so please turn up on time even if it means leaving the house a bit earlier. Please take into account distance, traffic conditions and potential delays. Don't worry if the baby gets upset or goes to the toilet, we will take care of their comfort once you arrive. Being late will get you and the baby stressed, plus you might lose your appointment as I often have another customer right after you.

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Before you leave the house 

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About an hour before you leave your house, try to keep the baby awake and alert as best you can via stimulation & playtime (baths work great). This way we spend more time photographing the baby and less time getting the baby to fall asleep during the newborn photoshoot. Let your baby fall asleep in the car on the way to the studio.

 

Feeding 

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 Ensure the baby has a VERY full belly for the session. It is advised to try to feed the baby about 20 – 30 mins before you leave the house so that we don’t have to spend time feeding when you arrive. If you are bottle feeding, please bring extra bottles of formula and/or pumped breast milk to help fill up the baby faster and get them into a sound sleep. 

 

Dress 

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Dress the baby in ONLY a button or zip up sleeper (no onesies underneath) so that it is easier to undress them without disturbing them from sleep. Avoid putting outfits on them that require pulling them over their heads.

 

What to bring

 

It is advised to bring the following to your newborn session: extra bottles, wipes, changing mat and a dummy, even if your baby hasn’t taken a dummy yet, it is still a good idea to bring one as this could make or break your session. The goal is to help keep the baby happy and calm during your session and is only used if assistance is needed to capture certain poses and won’t create any habit forming behaviour.I know this may be a lot to ask of you to do before the session but in order to ensure your baby stays asleep and calm during the session it is best to follow the prep guide as best you can without putting too much pressure on yourself. If you ever have any questions about how to prepare for your newborn session don’t hesitate to get in touch.

 

What to expect during the session

 

Warm studio 

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To keep the babies comfortable with no clothing on it is important that I keep my studio warm. I can also use an additional heater if it’s necessary but normally it is warm enough. If you are sweating during the session then you have it nice and warm for the baby and he/she will likely sleep more soundly, so please wear light clothes or layers to ensure your comfort.

 

White noise

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Newborns will sleep much more peacefully if there is white noise in the room. During a newborn session I use a shusher to cover other noises such as the camera's shutter or talking.Handling. There will be a lot of handling and movement for the baby however the baby’s safety comes first! If there is ever a point where you become uncomfortable, just let me know! I take every measure to ensure that your baby is never in any danger. For that reason, I will always make sure that a parent or assistant is nearby to lend support if needed.

 

Stay calm and relaxed​

 

 Babies are very perceptive and can pick up on our energy. If you are nervous or anxious the baby will sense that and will not settle easily. I want you to enjoy the experience of your session and this special bonding moment for your family.

 

Family shots

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Dress in something simple, avoid any strong patterns, flowers, big logos, something that doesn't stand out in the photos, the focus should remain on the baby. Sometimes plain bold colours are the best. Sibling shots / family shots are done in the beginning of the session so you can relax and sit back for the rest of the session, also the siblings can be taken to a park or home if you wish as they tend to get bored for the remaining 2-3 hours.

 

When you arrive

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You will arrive at a home studio, there will be no signs outside. Parking is available on the drive mostly during the week, feel free to park next to my car or if not available please park on the street. Full address is 5 Lambeth Close, Derby, DE22 4FE

 

Look forward to meeting you all!Best regards, Mihaela