Read on to hear from OKC Newborn Photographer Photos by Ashleigh why professional newborn photos should always be a priority!

The Importance of Newborn Photography

Welcoming a new baby into the world is a momentous and joyous occasion that deserves to be celebrated, and what better way to do that than to document this precious new life and all of their tiny details?

Newborn photography is not just about capturing adorable pictures of your baby. It is about documenting the pure and innocent beauty of your little one during those first few weeks of life. These photos serve as a visual representation of the love and joy that fills your heart when you hold your newborn in your arms. They capture the essence of your baby’s unique personality and the overwhelming emotions that come with being a parent. You only have a newborn for four weeks, and while the days and sleepless nights may seem to drag on endlessly, you’ll wake one morning to look upon the chubby cheeks of a baby who can sit independently, then walk, then run and you’ll realize just how quickly those days and nights passed by.

When to reserve your Newborn Photography Session

Because newborns tend to have their own ideas regarding when they will be born, there’s no way to set a date for the newborn session until baby is born. Additionally, a limited number of sessions can be made available each month and they are reserved based on due date. Due to this, I always encourage expecting moms to reserve their sessions during the second half of their pregnancy – usually around 25-30 weeks. This gives us ample time to ensure there is room on my schedule around the time you are due, plenty of time to plan the perfect session, and even add on a maternity session if you’d like!

When it comes to scheduling your newborn session, timing is everything. Babies go through so many changes during the first few weeks of life, and we want to schedule early. My suggestion is to schedule within the first 21 days after birth, but earlier is better. Once your newborn session is reserved, I give moms my phone number so they can contact me as soon as baby is born and we can get the session scheduled on the calendar!

What to expect during a Newborn Photography Session

Newborn Photography Sessions can last anywhere from 90 minutes to three hours, depending on baby’s needs. This time frame allows plenty of time for soothing, feeding, changing and gently posing baby while ensuring they are comfortable, safe and warm. I like to start with family photos and any photos involving older siblings (especially toddler siblings) before moving on to just baby. This gives baby time to settle into their swaddle while staying with mom and dad for a bit.

During the session, I will gently pose your baby in various positions, capturing their delicate features and showcasing their tiny hands and feet. I will work patiently and skillfully, ensuring that your baby remains safe and relaxed throughout the process. The goal is to create beautiful and artistic images that showcase the fleeting beauty of your newborn while maintaining their safety at all times.

How to prepare your baby for a newborn photography session

Getting baby ready for a newborn photography session goes beyond just making sure they are well-rested and well-fed. There are a few simple steps you can take to ensure that your baby is comfortable and content throughout the session. One of the most important things you can do is to keep your baby warm. Newborns are used to being in a warm and cozy environment, so it is essential to maintain a comfortable temperature in the studio. You can expect my studio to be warm, and a space heater to be used when baby is posed without clothes on. This helps keep them calm and relaxed, and also helps maintain their body temperature.

Giving them a warm bath before the session can help soothe and relax them, making it easier for baby to sleep soundly during their session. It is also a good idea to bring any items that help your baby feel secure, such as a pacifier. It isn’t uncommon for babies to want to eat more during their session since they are in a new place with an unfamiliar person, so bringing along extra food for them is always a good idea!

The benefits of Professional Newborn Photos

Investing in professional newborn photos offers numerous benefits that go beyond just having beautiful pictures of your baby. These photos serve as a tangible reminder of the overwhelming love and joy that you felt when you first held your newborn in your arms. They capture the tiny details that you may otherwise forget, such as the softness of their skin, the curl of their tiny fingers, and the sweetness of their sleepy smiles.

Professional newborn photos also make incredible keepsakes that you can pass down through generations. They become cherished family heirlooms that tell the story of your family’s journey and the love that binds you together. These photos can be proudly displayed in your home, serving as a constant reminder of the miracle of life and the joy that your little one brings to your life.

Professional Newborn Photography is a beautiful and meaningful way to capture the innocence and beauty of your baby during those precious early days. Once these days are gone, they are gone for good – only existing as far off memories in the back of our minds.

If you or someone you know are expecting a new addition to your family and are in the Oklahoma City area, it’s not too late to reserve your session. Spots are filling up for Fall 2023 due dates, so head on over to http://www.photobyashleigh.com to request availability and reserve your session.