IN HOME NEWBORN
SESSION
A Guide for Melissa Berdis Photography Clients
WELCOME AND THANK YOU!
As a mom, I know first hand that the first weeks of life with a new baby are challenging, exciting, stressful and some of the most wonderful moments of your life. I am so thankful that you chose me to help capture them!
Take a breath, and take a few minutes to read this guide that will hopefully ease some worries, and help prepare you for our session!
WHAT TO EXPECT
When I first arrive, after saying hello of course, I will scope out your home for areas with the best light and the most picture friendly colors/decor. I primarily shoot newborn lifestyle images in the nursery, master bedroom and living room however it’s more about finding the rooms with the best light and color scheme.
The baby will typically determine the flow of the session. If he or she is hungry when I arrive, then I will start with some feeding and changing shots. If he/she's sleeping soundly in the crib (kudos to you!) then I’ll start with some crib and nursery shots. There is no set schedule or plan, as a parent myself, I’ve learned to adapt.
Although this is lifestyle session, I do offer gentle guidance for posing to get the ball rolling and help clients settle in. I will make use of your home, your décor, your furniture, etc…
HOW TO PREPARE
1. Prep your space: Your home does not have to be perfect. I promise. It’s your home and it’s supposed to look lived in, and if you have little ones, it's VERY well lived in. You don’t have to hire a professional cleaning company before your session or redecorate the living room; I’m there to focus on you and the interactions with your new baby. Instead, focus on uncluttering your home which means just tidying up a bit and basically putting stuff in the room where it belongs (no coats on couch or towels on bed sort of thing) and just toss the rest in a closet until I leave. Giving windows or mirrors a quick wipe does go along way because streaks or dust on these surface scan be very obvious in photographs.
2. About 30 minutes before the scheduled session or before the baby naps, loosen the baby’s diaper to allow time for the diaper’s imprint marks to disappear. Also remove any tight clothing that could leave marks on the skin. You can swaddle baby in a warm blanket until I arrive; they tend to like that and it’s a sweet photo op for me. If baby’s skin is a little dry or flaky, try applying a small bit of baby lotion to those spots the day before our session.
3. Collect any items you want used in the session beforehand such as blankets or stuffed animals. We’ll go through these together to determine what and how we can use the items in your session.
4. I typically shoot a good portion of the session in the nursery so please have the curtains and shades open to let in lots of natural light. I also love to photograph baby with mom and dad in their bed, on the couch, anywhere comfy and snuggly. No need to clean, but just try and make sure the clutter has found its way to a closet in these particular rooms.
WHAT TO WEAR
Keep in mind that I'm documenting a day in your life, so keep it real by wearing what you’re most comfortable in and by being yourself. I encourage neutral colors, steering away from t-shirts with logos or bold patterns. Casual clothing is perfect and bare feet look most natural in a home setting. Moms, consider a light flowy shirt, maxi dress or a pretty cotton gown that will be both comfortable and soft while you are cuddling with your new baby.
For baby I recommend naked (so make sure the house is nice and warm), in just a diaper or in just a neutral colored onesie. I realize there are tons of really cute baby clothes but it’s rare to find any that fit properly or that won’t be distracting in photos. Primp yourself just a bit; enough to photograph well but still be YOU and still be casual. Less is more! :)
ONE FINAL NOTE
Relax! If the baby gets fussy or alert, don’t worry. A baby can sense your anxiety and we want to keep the environment as mellow as possible. I am not in a rush and I will not bail because the baby isn’t sleeping or cooperating.
Take some deep breaths and enjoy this time with your new baby. Ultimately, I want you to enjoy this experience as much as I enjoy capturing it. It’s ok to be a bit nervous. I can guarantee you that you will not regret having these memories to cherish!
