You often ask me how Newborn Photographers keep babies so sleepy during photo sessions.
Being a newborn photographer is a bit like being a baby whisperer, mixed with a sprinkle of magic, and a dash of parental tricks! And as a Newborn photographer with more then 7 years of experience serving Seattle, Bellevue, Mercer Island and surrounding cities, I can share some secrets with you today!
Let's dive into the enchanting art of newborn photography and reveal how we keep those tiny bundles of joy so comfortable and sleepy during the shoot.
The Warm, Cozy Cocoon
First and foremost, we create a warm and cozy environment. Imagine a snuggly cocoon where your little one feels safe and secure, just like when they were in the womb. We heat the studio (or a room in your home if we do in-home session), to around 80 degrees. Babies love warmth, and this temperature helps them stay relaxed and sleepy. We also use soft blankets and wraps that are gentle on their delicate skin, making sure they're comfortable enough to drift off into a peaceful slumber.
The Soothing Soundtrack
Every good nap needs a lullaby, right? We use white noise machines or soft meditation music to create a calming atmosphere. The gentle hum mimics the sounds they heard in the womb, making them feel right at home. It’s like hitting the play button on a playlist titled “Instant Baby Sleep.”
The Power of Full Tummies
A hungry baby is an alert baby! We make sure your little one has a full tummy before the session begins. A good feed can make them feel sleepy and content, ready to drift off into dreamland. Sometimes, a little top-up feed during the session helps too. So, we always encourage parents to be prepared for some mid-session snack time.
The Magic Touch
Handling a newborn is an art in itself. We use gentle, soothing movements to position your baby, often mimicking the natural rocking motion they’re used to. Slow and steady wins the race here - quick or abrupt movements can startle them awake. With a soft touch and a lot of patience, we guide them into those adorable poses you see in the photos.
Swaddling Wizardry
Swaddling is another trick up our sleeves. A well-swaddled baby feels secure and snug, just like they did in the womb. Once swaddled, babies often fall into a deeper sleep, allowing us to capture those serene, sleepy moments.
The Patience Potion
Perhaps the most important ingredient in this sleepy recipe is patience. Newborns have their own schedules, and we respect that. Sometimes, it takes a bit of time for them to settle down, and that’s perfectly okay. We work around their needs, taking breaks as necessary, and always keeping the environment calm and stress-free. That's why newborn session can last up to 3 hours.
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
Lastly, we work closely with you, the parents, as part of our dream team. Your presence, your scent, and your touch can be incredibly soothing for your baby. We often have you nearby, ready to assist with comforting your little one if needed. Your calm demeanor helps keep the baby calm too. That's why I like to meet with expecting parents before the baby is born for a consultation. It helps to create trust and to make sure your experience is stress-free.
A Magical Memory in the Making
Capturing these precious early moments is a blend of art, science, and a sprinkle of magic. So, dear expecting parents, rest assured that your baby is in good hands. With warmth, gentle sounds, full tummies, and a whole lot of patience, we’ll create a serene, sleepy environment that allows us to capture those unforgettable moments.
Embrace the journey ahead, and remember, every sleepless night and every tiny yawn is a part of this incredible adventure. And when you look back at those dreamy photos, you’ll see the magic that was there all along.
Sweet dreams and happy parenting!
