Welcoming a new baby into your family is a magical and transformative experience. As a maternity and newborn photographer based in Parkersburg, WV, and serving the Mid-Ohio Valley area, Lori Pickens Photography is dedicated to capturing these precious early moments. One of the most common questions new parents ask is, “When is the best time to have a newborn session?” Discover the ideal timing for newborn photography and why it matters.
Why Timing Matters in Newborn Photography
Newborn photography is unique because it aims to capture the fleeting and delicate nature of a baby’s first days. These sessions are more than just photos; they are timeless keepsakes that document the innocence and beauty of your newborn. The right timing can make all the difference in achieving those dreamy, peaceful images that parents cherish forever.
The Ideal Time Frame: The First Two Weeks
Age Matters
For the best newborn photos, scheduling your session within the first two w eeks after birth is crucial. During this period, babies are typically more sleepy and easier to pose. Their natural curl, reminiscent of their position in the womb, allows for me to capture those adorable, curled-up poses.
Sleepy and Pliable
In the first two weeks, newborns spend most of their time sleeping and are usually very flexible. This makes it easier to position them in those sweet, serene poses that parents love. Additionally, they are less likely to be disturbed by the movements and adjustments needed during the session.
Minimizing Discomfort
Around the third week, babies start to stretch out and become more alert. They may also experience growth spurts and develop conditions like colic or baby acne, which can make them uncomfortable and fussy. By scheduling your session early, you can avoid these potential issues and ensure a smoother, more enjoyable experience for both you and your baby.
Booking Your Newborn Session: Plan Ahead
Book on the Due Date
To secure a spot within this optimal window, it’s best to book your newborn session around your due date. This proactive approach allows us to reserve a time slot and adjust the exact date once your baby arrives. At Lori Pickens Photography, I understand that babies don’t always arrive on schedule, so I keep my calendar flexible to accommodate early or late arrivals.
Avoiding Missed Opportunities
The number one reason families miss out on newborn sessions is the hustle and bustle of adjusting to life with a newborn. By booking your session in advance, you eliminate the stress of having to remember to schedule the session after your baby’s arrival. This ensures you don’t miss the fleeting opportunity to capture those precious early days.
Preparing for Your Newborn Session
Feed and Comfort
A well-fed and comfortable baby is more likely to remain calm and sleepy during the session. We recommend feeding your baby right before the session starts. Also, dress your baby in loose clothing to avoid any marks on their skin.
Creating a Comfortable Environment
The studio will be warm to ensure your baby remains comfortable throughout the session. We also use white noise machines to mimic the soothing sounds your baby heard in the womb, helping them stay relaxed.
Introducing the Bump to Baby Collection
Our Bump to Baby Collection is designed to capture the entire journey from pregnancy to the early days of your newborn’s life. This package includes:
- Maternity Session: Celebrate the beauty of your pregnancy with stunning portraits that highlight this special time in your life.
- Newborn Session: Capturing your baby’s first days with timeless and beautiful images.
- Milestone Sessions: Documenting key moments in your baby’s first year, such as sitting up, crawling, and their first birthday.
This comprehensive collection ensures that every important moment is beautifully preserved, giving you a cohesive and memorable record of your baby’s early journey.
The Lori Pickens Photography Newborn Experience
At Lori Pickens Photography, I strive to make your newborn session a seamless and memorable experience. My newborn experience includes:
- Personalized Consultation: We’ll discuss your preferences, including themes, colors, and any special requests, to tailor the session to your vision.
- Professional Styling: I provide a variety of high-quality props, backdrops, and outfits to create beautiful and unique setups for your baby.
- Comfort and Safety: Your baby’s comfort and safety are our top priorities. I use gentle posing techniques and maintain a warm, clean environment.
- Family-Friendly Environment: I encourage parents and siblings to be part of the session, capturing the love and connection of your growing family.
What to Expect During the Session
Patience is Key
Newborn sessions require patience and flexibility. Each baby is different, and some may need more time to settle than others. We take breaks as needed for feeding, changing, and comforting your baby to ensure they remain happy and content.
Safety First
Your baby’s safety is our top priority. We use safe posing techniques and always have an assistant close by to support your baby during complex poses. We also sanitize all props and equipment between sessions to maintain a clean and safe environment.
Capturing the Perfect Shot
We aim to capture a variety of poses and setups, including solo shots of your baby and family portraits. Whether it’s the classic womb pose, tiny fingers and toes, or tender moments with mom and dad, each image will reflect the beauty and innocence of your newborn.
The Significance of Newborn Photography
Cherishing Fleeting Moments
Newborns grow incredibly fast, changing almost daily. Those first few weeks are a blur of feedings, diaper changes, and sleepless nights. Photography allows you to freeze these fleeting moments and preserve them forever.
Creating Lasting Memories
These images become part of your family’s legacy, cherished not only by you but also by future generations. They tell the story of your baby’s first days and the love that surrounds them.
Celebrating Your New Family
Newborn photography is not just about the baby; it’s also about celebrating the new family dynamic. Including parents and siblings in the session captures the joy and connection as you welcome the newest member of your family.
Tips for a Successful Newborn Session
Communicate Your Preferences
Before the session, discuss any specific poses, props, or themes you have in mind. This helps us tailor the session to your vision and ensures you get the images you’ve been dreaming of.
Stay Relaxed
Babies can sense your stress and anxiety. Staying calm and relaxed will help your baby feel secure and comfortable. Trust in the process and enjoy the experience.
Bring Essentials
Pack a diaper bag with extra diapers, wipes, blankets, and a pacifier if your baby uses one. Having these items on hand can make the session run more smoothly.
Choosing the right time for your newborn session is essential for capturing the serene, sleepy poses that parents adore. By scheduling your session within the first two weeks, you ensure that your baby is at their most peaceful and pliable, allowing us to create beautiful, timeless images. Booking your session around your due date ensures you’re prepared and won’t miss this precious window.
At Lori Pickens Photography, we are committed to providing a comfortable and safe environment for you and your baby. Serving families in Parkersburg, WV, and the Mid-Ohio Valley area, we take pride in capturing the unique and precious moments of your newborn’s early days.
Ready to book your newborn session? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and secure your spot. Let us help you create memories that will last a lifetime. Explore our Bump to Baby Collection for a comprehensive photography experience from pregnancy to your baby’s first year.
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