What To Expect at a Newborn Session with SheenaGal Photography

When Does a Newborn Session Take Place?

Newborns are best photographed between 5-10 days old.

For 9 months, baby has been growing and developing, waiting to make his/her appearance. They are tightly confined inside the space of the womb. They are born with over 300 bones (adults have 206 bones) and their tiny bodies remain compacted into the "fetal position" for a few weeks. This is the perfect time to do your Newborn Portrait Session because the longer they are out, the more their backs and legs straighten out and the more difficult it becomes to pose the baby.

Image from Google

Can Newborns be Photographed After 2 Weeks?

Yes, but you must be willing to manage your expectations of what your images will look like. Babies become noticeably more alert after 2 weeks. I typically don't do newborn sessions any later than 3 weeks old unless there are extenuating circumstances such as NICU stays.

Can I Bring My Baby After His Circumcision?

I strongly encourage you to schedule the circumcision for after our session.

Because most of my posing is done on the belly, I can not keep baby comfortable enough to achieve my standard poses if he is still healing. If you must have it done before our session, please tell me so I can schedule you 7-10 days after and baby's diaper would need to be left on for the entirety of the session for sanitary reasons.

How Long Does a Newborn Session Last?

A newborn session typically takes 2-3 hours.

A newborn session could take more or less time depending on the baby. Every baby is different but there are a few things you can do to help our session go smoothly:

Keep your baby awake for at least 2 hours before your session.
Wash your baby and moisturize his/her skin.
Feed and burp your baby right before your session.
Bring extra milk in bottles.
Bring a silicone/Soothie style pacifier (I have these available as well.)
Bring extra diapers & receiving blankets.
If your baby has diaper rash, avoid using creams that day until after the session.

Are Family Photos Included?

Yes, with an upgrade package!

It can take a fair amount of extra time and effort to get great family shots to be included in your gallery. And you will want the additional images added, so for these, please consider one of the 2 upgraded collections that I offer.

For parents with baby only, I do those photos at the end of the session. Skin to skin contact looks amazing so short sleeve or sleeveless shirts are preferred for this style. Baby will be "au-naturale" so bring an extra outfit just in case we have any accidents. That's why I wait until the end ;)

Best shirt colors are white, cream, nude, tan, gray or black.
Nails should be clean and without polish or a light color.

For families with siblings or sibling(s) with baby, I do these at the beginning of the session so I can move quickly and with the most attention. After the photos are taken, the children are welcome to stay and watch cartoons or play out back with supervision, or we have several parks nearby. Another option is to bring 2 cars and have one parent take the sibling(s) home after they are done with their part of the session.

Children should avoid colored candies, drinks or anything that will stain the mouth or clothes.
Hair should be combed. Hands, feet and face should be clean.
If you or your child has been sick or had a fever, your session will need to be rescheduled.
Animals, unfortunately, cannot be photographed to keep the studio hypoallergenic.

newborn + family behind the scenes video

Have Questions?

Please feel free to use this form to contact me at any time.

How to Prepare for your Newborn Portrait Session