As an Annapolis newborn photographer, I was worried about whether or not I would get to continue documenting cute little babies with COVID-19. As a mom of a child who is immune compromised and a mom of three kids who are not yet old enough to receive the vaccine, I definitely understand the position parents are in this year. Last summer, I only did two newborn sessions for friends, but once I received both doses of my vaccine, I felt comfortable putting my name out there to document babies again! I’ve kept my social bubble pretty small, not only to protect my kids but to protect the babies and kids I document, too!
I am so thankful I got to document Baby Noah and his parents. The connection between these parents and this baby was so sweet to watch. I would have NEVER guessed this was their first with how comfortable mom and dad were loving on this baby.
If you are new here, there are a few things that you should know when booking a newborn session, and my guide here goes through a lot more specific info to help you prepare. First, it’s best to book a newborn session at week 20 or at the beginning of your third trimester. I like to keep schedule more open around your due date since babies are not always showing up on time. (Only one of mine came on the due date!) I stay in contact with the mom those last few weeks. If you want a maternity session, you can book a mini or traditional hour session, and I’ll give a discount for booking that with your newborn session. I recommend between weeks 30-35 for your maternity session. I also offer Fresh 48 sessions where I document your time in the hospital; these are a bit trickier to schedule during the school year when I’m teaching but it’s not impossible. I MISS DOING THESE SO MUCH, so if you would be interested in this, please let me know. I may cut you a special deal!
I like to document newborns between days 5-12. I find this is the sweet spot where they are still sleepy and have that freshness. I’ll ask you to feed your baby before I get there; if the baby is asleep, I’ll start with traditional portraits, and if the baby stays asleep, I’ll get in all of the combinations you want, and then I’ll move to the lifestyle portion where family is included. If the baby is awake when I arrive, we’ll start with lifestyle first. I know you just had a baby, so you don’t need your house to be spotless, but it’s good to pick up clutter in the areas where you want me to document; usually, that’s the nursery, the master bedroom, or the main family/living room. Good lighting is KEY. If you know your house is dark even during the day the rooms we will use, please let me know so I know to bring a flash and lighting. I do not typically do this, and it’s really hard to make beautiful images if there’s no light.
I’ll bring wraps, outfits, baskets, hats, headbands, filler for the baskets, but I LOVE when you have something personal to add to the mix to make the session unique. Having the house a bit warm is great, have all of the curtains open to give as much natural light as possible, and consider using a white noise machine to help the baby stay chill. If it’s nice outside, I love moving outside, too!
I have some newborn sessions coming up soon, and I hope I get some winter babies on my calendar! You moms and dads of pandemic babies are amazing! It’s such a hard time!
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