This week I will be trying to answer some of the common questions I get regarding newborn photography. As I am being asked for these sessions more and more these days, I thought this would be a good way to answer some of the questions I receive from clients. Newborns are one of my favorite types of sessions. They are also some of the most challenging. The goal is to capture as much of that beauty and innocence of fresh life before they start to change….and that happens so quickly!

So firstly, I am often asked, “When should I schedule my newborn photo session?” The answer is always “as soon as you possibly can!” Babies come in their own time…..usually not when you have planned it. At least in most cases, their arrival cannot be scheduled. It is important to put your name on my calendar as quickly as possible because I only allow for so many newborns per time period. I have to keep my schedule somewhat flexible so we are able to photograph the baby at the optimal time.

Which leads to my next question: “At what age should a newborn session take place?” Answer: “hopefully before 2 weeks of age.” In the first couple of weeks of life your baby will sleep A LOT. And that is a great time to capture your little bundle. If the baby sleeps harder, it makes it easier to get all the beautiful curled and sleepy poses every parent loves. If you were unable to schedule a newborn session right away and your baby is already 3 or 4 weeks old, don’t worry. I have had great success with babies 2-5 weeks of age, although those sessions can be a bit on the long side. Of course, I photograph babies and children of all ages. But your window for a “newborn session” is relatively short.

Q: Where is the session held?
A: The session is held at your home. There is no need to pack up and take your baby somewhere else. I come to you and when the session is over, you are already relaxing in your own home!

Q: How long is a newborn session?
A: The baby runs the show so that is hard to say. I do ask that parents put aside 4 hours, just in case we need it. That is just the beginning of the time I spend on newborn sessions though. From the processing of the images (which produce more proofs than any other session) to the design and ordering and packaging of the products, I spend approximately 25 hours or more on each client.

Q: 4 hours?! That’s a really long time!
A: I agree. And I won’t shoot any longer than necessary. It may be only 2 hours. Your baby will determine the pace of the session. We don’t spend the whole time shooting. At least half of a newborn session is spent in feedings, comforting, cleaning up “accidents”, setting up shots…. It is definitely worth it. You will see just how quickly they will change and you will be so glad you decided to document these first few days your baby was home.

Q: Accidents? What kind of accidents?
A: The kind that generally occur when you are working with a very sleepy, very full, and very naked baby! Have plenty of towels on hand:)

Q: How do you get those cute poses?
A: Patience is key. Patience and experience and a love for what I do. That’s the recipe!

Q: Do those cute hats belong to you and if so, where did you get them?
A: Yes, most of the hats you see on my blog and website are mine. There are just a few that I purchased but most of them were handmade by me! I was lucky enough to have two grandmothers who were fabulous at crochet. My great grandmother was amazing at it and actually had a line of her handmade crocheted baby outfits, layettes, and booties carried in the Dillards in her city. She gave me some coaching as well. That was a long time ago.

Q: Do you bring any other props with you?
A: Oh yes! You might think I am moving in when I arrive for your session. I will bring baskets and blankets and hats and anything else I might like to try. But I will definitely use any of your own interesting or loved pieces during the session.

Q: How much does a newborn session cost?
A: That depends on what products you want. At this time, newborn sessions are the same price as a regular session – $200. A typical newborn photography session client spends anywhere from $850 to $3500 on prints and products, depending on the types of items they want to document this time and how many.

Q: What types of products do you offer?
A: Standard wall and desktop prints, custom storyboards, DVD slideshows, canvas gallery wraps, digital files, birth announcements, storybooks and mini storybooks, mini accordion albums, and fine custom art albums. This Spring I will also offer a line of gorgeous and unique jewelry.

I think that covers the most frequently asked questions regarding newborn baby photography sessions. Please contact me if you have any other questions or wish to schedule your session at 803-348-3306 or ashley@ashleywardphotography.com.

Another FAQ next week. Send me an email if you would like to make a suggestion for a question. Or visit my fan page at:http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ashley-Ward-Photography/39922289977.

One quick newbie image to close out tonight – an oldie but goodie:)

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