Baby session guide
Thank you for choosing Seeds Photography for your custom photography session. Below is some information that you may find helpful in preparing for your portrait session.
What to expect
Sessions take place in my warm and cozy home studio – a large room that receives lots of lovely, north facing light. I love using natural, soft light and the way it gently wraps around the delicate features of your child’s face and puts beautiful catch-lights in their eyes, and so that is generally the only lighting I use. Therefore if it is a very gloomy day or in the case of inclement weather, your session may need to be rescheduled.
Sessions are relaxed and informal and take as long as it needs. I usually let your child be my guide, as they will generally let us know when they have had enough! As a guideline though most sessions take around 1 to 1.5 hours. During this time babies can be fed and have a breather. I will let your child do their own thing and I will also guide them in their actions to create beautiful images. I aim for natural smiles and expressions so you may be asked to help by singing their favourite silly songs! I will also ask that you become my shadow - your child will naturally follow your every move, so I ask that you remain next to me at the same eye level so your child’s beautiful gaze and smile are directed towards my camera lens.
What to wear
The most important thing is that babies are comfortable in what they are wearing. Uncomfortable babes have a tendency to look…uncomfortable, and are often cranky as well.
Simple is always best. We want to show off those gorgeous chubby legs and dimpled hands, so quite often all we need for a baby session is a singlet top (pale blue for boys and pale pink for girls is always classic) and a nappy cover. Please avoid big logos and cartoon characters, as they can be very distracting. Try also to avoid stripes and bold patterns - clothing should be kept simple, so as not to distract from the face. Solid colour clothes, in neutral shades always look good as they will emphasize the face and make them appear warmer and more pleasing in photographs.
Please try to avoid plain, white tops if possible. Our eye is naturally drawn to the lightest part of an image - we want that to be your child’s face, not their bright, white clothing!
Most of the time bare feet are perfect.
Have your child’s favourite teddy bear, blankie, dolly or toy nearby so it too can be included in the photograph.
For a more detailed look on clothing choices for all family members please refer to my comprehensive article HERE
What if I need to reschedule?
I understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise, so if you need to change your session date please contact me at your earliest opportunity.
If your child is at all unwell we will need to reschedule your session. Even if your baby is just getting over a cold and just has a slight sniffle it is still better to postpone the session until they are 100% as runny noses and tired, unwell babies do not photograph well! Happy babies make for happy, beautiful images!
Can I bring someone along?
If you wish you can bring a family member along to help; an aunty or grandparent may love to watch and help get the best expressions. Please avoid having too many people present during the shoot as your baby may start to feel overfussed and overwhelmed.
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to discuss them with me. I look forward to catching up with you and your little one very soon!
Jenny x
NB: I would appreciate it if others refrain from using their cameras during the session, thank you!