Preparing for Your Newborn Session: Essential Tips from a Central Arkansas Newborn Photographer

As a central Arkansas newborn photographer located in Morrilton, Arkansas, capturing those precious early moments of your baby's life is my passion. To ensure your newborn session is a success, here are some essential tips to help you prepare.

1. Schedule Early

Newborn sessions are best conducted within the first 5-14 days of life. During this period, babies are more likely to sleep soundly and curl up in those adorable poses. Reach out during your pregnancy your second trimester to tentatively book your session around your due date.

2. Keep Baby Comfortable

A happy baby makes for a smoother session. Here’s how to ensure your little one is content:

- Feed before the session: A well-fed baby is more likely to be sleepy and calm.

- Dress in easy-to-remove clothing: Avoid outfits that require pulling over the baby’s head. Simple snaps or zippers work best.

- Warm environment: Newborns are used to the warmth of the womb, so the room will be warm to make them comfortable during outfit changes and poses.

3. Consider Timing

Morning sessions often work best for newborns as they tend to be more settled and sleepier. Ensure your schedule allows for plenty of time, as newborn sessions can take a couple of hours to accommodate feeding, soothing, and posing.

4. Select Outfits and Props

My style is very simple. I will send out a questionnaire before your session to plan the session around your color preferences. I provide a variety of props and outfits, you may want to bring a few personal items:

- Special outfits or blankets: Items with sentimental value can add a personal touch.

- Props: Think about any special props you'd like to include, such as a family heirloom or a favorite stuffed animal.

5. Prepare Siblings and Family Members

If you plan to include siblings or other family members, discuss the session with them beforehand. Explain the importance of being gentle and quiet around the baby. Bringing snacks, toys, or activities to keep them entertained can also be helpful.

6. Plan for Breaks

Newborns are unpredictable, and that's perfectly normal. Plan for breaks to feed, change, and soothe your baby as needed. Patience is key, and I’ll work around your baby’s needs.

7. Hygiene and Safety

I prioritize your baby’s safety and well-being:

- Clean environment: The studio is cleaned and sanitized before each session.

- Safe posing: I will never force a baby into an uncomfortable position and always prioritize their safety.

8. Prepare Yourself

Parents often forget about themselves in the hustle and bustle of preparing for a newborn session. Wear comfortable clothing and consider bringing an extra outfit in case of any accidents. Hydrate, eat, and be ready to relax and enjoy the experience.

9. Capture the Details

I love to capture all the tiny details that make your newborn unique. Tiny toes, little fingers, and delicate eyelashes are all moments you’ll treasure forever. If there are specific shots you have in mind, let me know!

By following these tips, you'll help ensure your newborn session is a delightful and memorable experience. As your Central Arkansas newborn photographer, I'm here to capture these fleeting moments so you can cherish them for a lifetime.

**Book Your Newborn Session Today!**

Ready to capture those precious early moments? Contact me to schedule your newborn photography session. I look forward to creating beautiful memories with you and your family!

Click here to check out more of my newborn portfolio.

How to Prepare for a Milestone/Cake Smash Photography Session: Tips from a Central Arkansas Baby Photographer

Capturing your little one's milestones is a special way to preserve memories you'll cherish forever. As a Central Arkansas baby photographer, I know how to make these sessions as smooth and enjoyable as possible for both parents and their little ones.

Here's a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for a milestone or cake smash photography session, ensuring you get the most out of this memorable experience.

1. Choose the Right Time Timing is crucial for a successful milestone or cake smash session. Schedule the session around your baby's happiest time of the day, typically after a nap and a meal. This helps ensure your baby is well-rested, fed, and ready to smile.

2. Outfit Planning Selecting the perfect outfit can make a big difference in your photos. For milestone sessions, choose outfits that are comfortable and reflect your baby's personality. Solid colors and subtle patterns work best, avoiding anything too busy that might distract from your baby's adorable expressions. For cake smash sessions, consider a cute, but practical outfit that you don’t mind getting messy. Don’t forget a backup outfit for after the smash!

3. Cake Selection The cake is the star of the smash! Opt for a small, soft cake that’s easy for your baby to dig into. Light, pastel colors photograph beautifully, and a simple design with minimal decorations reduces the risk of choking hazards. Many local bakeries in Central Arkansas specialize in smash cakes, and they can help you choose a baby-friendly option.

4. Props and Themes Discuss any props or themes you have in mind. Whether it's balloons, banners, or a specific color scheme, having a cohesive theme adds a fun element to the photos.

5. Preparing Your Baby Familiarize your baby with the idea of a cake smash by letting them play with cake or icing a few days before the session. This can help reduce any hesitation they might have when it's time to get messy. Also, ensure their nails are trimmed to prevent accidental scratches.

6. Bring Essentials Pack a bag with all the essentials you might need during the session, including:

• Wipes and a towel for cleanup
• A change of clothes for both baby and parents
• Favorite toys or comfort items to keep your baby happy
• Snacks and drinks for both you and your baby

7. Post-Session Tips After the session, plan for a relaxing time at home. Your baby might be a bit tired from all the excitement, so some quiet time and a nice bath can help them wind down.

Preparing for a milestone or cake smash photography session doesn’t have to be stressful. With a bit of planning and these tips, you’ll ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience that results in beautiful, lasting memories. If you’re in Central Arkansas and looking to capture your baby’s special moments, I’d love to help you create stunning photos that you’ll treasure forever.

Contact me today to book your session and let's make some magic happen!

To view my portfolio, visit the milestone portfolio page. Follow me on Instagram and Facebook for the latest updates and adorable sneak peeks!

David {newborn}

I was so excited when Morgan contacted me after David was born. I have now shot 3 out of 4 of their babies newborn sessions. They finally got their boy. It wouldn’t hurt my feelings if they kept having babies because they make the most beautiful babies together. David probably takes the award for most chill baby during their newborn session. He was an absolute dream to photograph.

I just love this family. I love watching their kids grow while also watching their family grow. It feels amazing when clients become friends and they keep trusting me to document these precious moments.

Hayes {extended family}

I don’t normally do extended family sessions. But my favorite first grade teacher texted me a couple of weeks before Christmas to ask if I would so I of course said yes. She taught both of my girls and they absolutely loved her. She is the sweetest soul and is still one of the best teachers that they’ve ever had.

She wanted a family session because all of their kids and grandkids would be together and they try to do a session every couple of years. They have a large blended family and are full of love. It was so cold the morning that we did the session but it was a blast. You can tell that they all have so much love for one another.

Melissa was fully prepared and had a list of each grouping she wanted. We did little mini family sessions for each family and of course a large family portrait. She told me in the beginning that she didn’t care if everyone was looking at the camera or not. She fully understood that with a large group like hers that it’s hard to get everyone smiling and looking at the same time. She loves candid shots and that’s right up my alley. I love the candid ones more than anything because that’s when everyone’s personalities really shine through.