Dressing for a
professional
photoshoot
TOP TIPS for photoshoot dressing
(I've also created seasonal inspiration boards for you)
SPECIALIST IN MATERNITY, NEWBORN + BABY PORTRAITURE
NEXT EVENT: CHRISTCHURCH BABY EXPO 4 + 5 MAY 2024
Getting the most from your at-home Simply Authentic newborn portrait session
what to expect and useful preperation
I have been assessed and credited as
a Qualified Newborn Photographer by the APNPI
Accredited Professional Newborn Photographers International
The rigorous accreditation process includes submitting
a newborn image portfolio for assessment and achieving 100% in an exam on the safe handling of newborns
Confirming your session | How
long will the session take?
Once the baby has arrived, please contact me as soon as possible so we can confirm your session date and time. I like to photograph newborns in their first couple of weeks to really capture that "newborn feel". Babies change so quickly, and I like to have these early days recorded for you. However, we can hold a Simply Authentic baby session at any time up to about 18 months old.
On the day of the session, I will plan to be with you for around 2 hours. This means we can have plenty of time for feeds and cuddles without any time pressure.
Newborns can be unpredictable. Try not to worry about it - I am very experienced and will work around your baby's needs to create a beautful gallery for you.
Preparing your home
There are a few things you can do to prepare that will help me to capture more beautiful and natural images and I have listed these on the 'Shoot Day Preparation' checklist.
I will plan to shoot with natural light in your home however, in case it is needed, I will bring flash lighting equipment with me.
Please don't be offended if I ask to move a couple of things around (and put them back again at the end of the session) that might be a distraction. If there is something in your home that you would prefer I do not touch, please let me know.
Being able to shoot in a number of areas in your home will lead to increased variety in your gallery but I am able to create a beautiful collection while shooting in just a couple of space.
1.
Ensure it’s nice and warm. Newborns can’t regulate their body temperature yet and so will be much more settled if they are cosy and warm.
2.
Open all your curtains - I will look around your home to find the areas with the best natural light to photograph.
3.
Have a look around the areas of your home that you would like to be photographed and try and remove any clutter. Clear surfaces remove distrations from your photograph and will be more pleasing to view.
4.
I will definitely want to photograph in the master bedroom and the nursery (if you have one set up) so I would appreciate if you can please ensure these room are tidy and that the bedside tables and dressers have been cleared of any un-necessary items.
Shoot day preperation
COVID-19 - keeping safe
Engaging children in the session
I recommend talking to your older children about the session in advance.
Tell them my name and explain why you would like to have their portrait taken with their new baby sister or brother.
It can be helpful to have some kind of reward for their participation - depending on their age - you will know your children best.
What type of images will I create?
The key difference between my Simply Authentic collection and my classic Newborn Portraits is that I will not be undertaking any complex posing with your baby. These shoots are more about your baby interacting with your family and telling the story of your new baby's arrival.
I will still capture some beautiful portraits of your baby on their own and I will bring a couple of posing aids to assist me with this if required.
What to wear?
You should wear clothing you feel comfortable in. Neutral colours and simple fabric patterns typically photograph best.
For families, coordinating colours tend to work better than completely matching outfits.
It is a good idea to have a spare change of clothing, in case of any little accidents.
Check out my full guide, including inspiration boards, on what to wear for a professional photoshoot here.
When will your gallery be ready?
I will post a "sneak peek" from your session within a couple of days of your session, so make sure you are following me on facebook and instagram!
An ordering appointment will be held at the studio 3-4 weeks after your session.
At this appointment you will be able to view your collection of approximately 20 images printed and ready for you to take home. You will select your collection and images for artwork during the appointment.
Artwork and albums will be delivered 2-4 weeks later and you will be invited to the studio to collect them.