Getting Ready for Your Newborn Photo Session: Tips for Northern California Families

Getting ready for your newborn photo session in Northern California? Let's ensure you're fully equipped to capture those precious moments: the newborn snuggles, tiny toes, and every little detail of your newest addition and your growing family. Bringing your baby home is a sweet and cherished moment, and I want to help you preserve every bit of that sacred and special time with your newborn

Imagine being able to look back and remember the feeling of cradling your little one, marveling at their tiny features, and witnessing your family expand with love. These are the moments I (or any other photographer) hope to capture – the ones that tug at your heartstrings and bring a smile to your face for years to come.

To make sure your session goes smoothly and you get the pictures you've been dreaming of, here are some helpful tips to help you prep for your newborn session.

Choosing the Right Time and Location

If you want to capture your newborn photos in your home or a studio, I find morning light is usually the best time to do that. And if you have older siblings, I find morning is usually when they are at their best too. Doing your newborn session in the comfort of your home has its perks. You can utilize a lot of different areas in your home to reflect you and your family. Rooms that work best for newborn sessions are the master bedroom, the nursery, and the living room. We can also take photos in the yard if there is some shade. This way you get a lot of variety in your gallery. I highly recommend cleaning the rooms you want to photograph in, and hiding as much clutter as possible to make your photos look clean and your home tidy.

If you want to do your session outdoors, I recommend scheduling your session during golden hour, 1-2 hours before sunset, to take advantage of the soft, flattering light that Northern California is known for. Whether you opt for the comfort of your home or the beauty of outdoors, your photos will be absolutely stunning

Dress for Comfort and Style

If you are photographing your newborn outdoors, Northern California's weather can be unpredictable. Be sure to dress your baby and yourselves in outfits comfortable to the weather.

Soft, neutral tones work well against the backdrop of the region's diverse landscapes, but feel free to add pops of color or patterns that reflect your family's personality

Relax and Enjoy the Experience

Let go of any stress or expectations you have and simply enjoy this special time with your newborn. Trust in your photographer's expertise to guide you through the session with professionalism and warmth, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Also just be yourselves! The best photos are the candid ones of you all just being you. If older siblings are involved I know some parents worry about how they will do. Prepare them as much as you can by having them fed and well rested (and maybe incentives with a treat after) but your photographer will work with your kiddos to get the best photos possible.

Personalize Your Session

Consider incorporating personal touches such as heirloom blankets, favorite toys, or meaningful props that add a personal and sentimental touch to your photos. These details help tell your family's story and make your session truly unique. If you are photographing your newborn session outdoors, be sure to bring a blanket or basket bassinet to get some photos of just baby too.

Preparing for your newborn photo session in Northern California is an exciting time filled with anticipation and joy. By following these tips, you'll be well-prepared to capture beautiful memories that you'll cherish for a lifetime.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule a session with me feel free to inquire right here on my website. I'm here to help make your newborn photo experience as seamless and memorable as possible!

Tori Dawn is a Northern California Photographer photographing in Sacramento, Elk Grove, Carmichael, Roseville, Citrus Heights, Folsom, Rancho Cordova, Davis, Rocklin, Woodland, West Sacramento, Lincoln, Auburn, Carmichael, Fair Oaks, Galt, Granite Bay, Orangevale, Placerville, El Dorado Hills, Dixon.