How Long Does a Newborn Session Take?

As a Bay Area Motherhood and Family photographer offering newborn sessions, I'm frequently asked about the intricacies of capturing those precious early moments. One common question that arises is why newborn photography sessions tend to take longer compared to other shoots I offer. It's understandable—how could a session with a tiny, slumbering baby extend to 2 to 3 hours?

This inquiry often comes from expectant couples, yet to experience the beautiful chaos that comes with welcoming a newborn. Little do they know, the simplest tasks, such as leaving the house or enjoying a cup of tea, become monumental feats in those initial days when your world is suddenly turned topsy-turvy.

From a In-Home Lifestyle Newborn Session, Walnut Creek, CA

So Why Are Newborn Portraits So Lengthy?

1. Babies cannot be rushed

Newborns, with their delicate features and tender demeanor, simply cannot be rushed during a photography session. Each moment with these tiny wonders is precious and fleeting, deserving of careful attention and patience. Attempting to hasten the process risks unsettling the baby, disrupting their peaceful rest, and ultimately compromising the quality of the photographs. From feeding and soothing to ensuring comfort and safety in every pose, every step requires gentle care and meticulous timing. Rushing through these crucial steps during a newborn photography session not only diminishes the experience for both the baby and the photographer but also risks missing out on capturing those priceless moments of innocence and wonder.

Lifestyle Newborn Session, Walnut Creek, CA

2. Baby Might be Awake During the Session

Frequently, when the baby surpasses two weeks of age, they tend to remain awake for the majority of the session and may not readily "cooperate" with posing.

3. Baby is Hungry and Needs to be Fed

Around those 10-14 days newborns normally have a growth spur and it can be more difficult with feeding. If mum is breastfeeding, baby might be on the boob for whole time. But many times we have to stop every 30-45 minutes with bottle fed babies as well.

4. Baby Need a Clothes Change

Often times your baby will spit on you or herself, or will have a pee accidents. When this happens during the newborn portraits taken, we must stop for a new set of clothes.

Little Hands, Lifestyle Newborn Session, Lafayette, CA

In-Home Newborn Session, Walnut Creek, CA

5. You Might Want to Include Older Siblings

I fully recognize the significance of capturing the entire family together, embracing the arrival of your newest member, and immortalizing those precious moments of your toddler bonding with their adorable new companion. Therefore, it's reassuring to know that siblings are warmly invited to join the session, albeit for a brief interlude. Typically, Dad or a doting grandparent graciously takes charge, engaging them in nearby activities, ensuring they're content while we focus on capturing those intimate newborn shots. Towards the latter half of the session, they're welcomed back, ready to add their own delightful charm to the frame. Involving older siblings in the newborn photography experience is always encouraged and seamlessly accommodated.

Big Borther, In-home Newborn Session, CA

Entire Family at Their Home With the Newborn, Walnut Creek, CA

In-Home Lifestyle Newborn Session, Walnut Creek, CA

I find immense joy in my work, especially during newborn photography sessions, but it's equally important to me that your baby and you find joy in the experience as well.

If you are considering a lifestyle newborn session and uncertain about the right age, here is a link to a blog I wrote about it. What is the Best Age for Newborn Photos You can also find some tips here In-Home Lifestyle Newborn Portraits Guide

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2 Comments

May 15, 2024, 5:35:13 PM

Iris Giladi - Congratulations Vibha! My daughter is graduating herself this year.

Unfortunately I am not available that specific day. Please feel free to contact me in the future if you need a photographer.

Warmly,

Iris Giladi Photography

May 15, 2024, 4:13:34 PM

Vibha Dhariwal - Hi Iris, I am looking to capture my daughters grad party on june 7 in danvillle. Are you available for 3-4 hours ?

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