Baby’s 1st Photo Session!

There are so many things to look forward to when you’re expecting: little smiles, little laughs, little toes and fingers, the excitement of bringing a little human that you created into this world. As a new mom myself, I can relate to all that excitement. I can also relate to how little sleep you’ll be getting and how easy it is to blink and realize your newborn is already 2 months old! One thing that is always great to look back on and cherish are those newborn photos; the ones of your baby sleeping so peacefully and fitting so easily into the palm of your hand.

We love to take newborn photos at Cheetah Design Studio and would love to work with you to make the first photos of your baby ones you’ll look back on fondly for years and years. We’ve compiled a list of things to make your newborn session as easy as possible for both you and the baby – the less you have to think about when you’re so sleep deprived, the better!

When should the session take place?

Ideally it is best to do the newborn session within the first 2 weeks the baby is born. The younger the better.

There are a number of reasons for this. First, we want the baby to be asleep for all or as much of the session as possible. Typically your baby’s eyes can’t focus when are open at this age so they really aren’t looking at anything. Trust me when I say that you’ll be happier with the photos of the baby sleeping. Sleeping newborns are happy newborns! We strive to keep them happy and warm so we can change their positions and get as many shots as possible. Don’t worry if they wake up and are hungry, feed them, we allow plenty of time for the babies. 

Another benefit to having the photos done within the first 2 weeks is that one thing people forget to mention about many newborns is the appearance of baby acne and cradle cap around 3-4 weeks old. Although your baby is still just as adorable, most likely you’ll want their pictures done before they go through their first ‘awkward’ phase.

Leading up to the day of the shoot

Try to have a quiet day before with as little stimulation as possible. The day before the shoot is not the time to travel all over the place meeting new people as this can overly exhaust the baby and they may be more fussy than usual the next day.

Time of Day

Usually, we have found that the morning is the best time for newborns and late afternoon or early evening is not so good. Whether we arrive at your home or you come to the studio, we typically have you feed the baby so they are full and tired. Notice a theme? Sleeping babies are happy babies!

What to bring

Anything that is special to you and your family. If you have a special toy or hat, bring it. For girls, hats and headbands with big bows or flowers look great. Maybe a hat from your alma mater or favorite sports team. Bring things that are important to you. As far as outfits go, most of the shoot will be done with only a diaper, or a white onsie.  Newborns look best in simple outfits.

What pictures will be taken?

We will be sure to capture the baby as well as the parents, siblings and even pets with your baby if you choose.

How long will the photo session last?

Plan on a couple of hours, however, if we have a very sleepy cooperative baby it may take less. We like to let your newborn direct the action and can tell when enough is enough for the babies.

VIEW SOME OF OUR NEWBORN PHOTOS