What kind of pictures should I book for new baby? | Spokane, WA
As with all things around having a new baby, there are so many decisions to make and photography is definitely one of them. There are so many choices in types of sessions to book for your new little one. Let’s do a quick explanation of the different types of newborn photography, so that you can make the best choice for your family.
Pregnancy Announcement Photos
Pregnancy announcement photos are usually done around the beginning of the second trimester. These often include some small props like baby shoes or a onesie to share with friends and family that you are expecting. Usually these are paired up with your annual family photos just so you get the most value for your dollar. Your immediate family (spouse and older children) are usually involved in these sessions.
Maternity Photos
Everyone knows what maternity photos are. This is a photoshoot done around week 30 of your pregnancy to show off your baby bump, honor the era before your new baby is added to the family and celebrate the new life and change that is coming soon. Some families wait for this session to make their new baby is on the way announcement. Whatever your preference is, is absolutely perfect. These sessions when booked with a lifestyle photographer, usually include your immediate family and look much like a family session, but with a little extra photo attention for mom sprinkled in.
Birth Photos
Birth photography is often done by a photographer who specializes in birth photography only, the reason is that they are on call for when you go into labor. They show up while you’re in labor and take photos throughout your birthing experience. They usually leave just shortly after baby and placenta are born. These sessions can be a great way to capture the memories of your birth, because with all the hormones, you may not remember much of what happened.
Fresh 48 Photos
Fresh 48 photos are documentary style photos taken in the birth space (usually hospital) within the first 48 hours of your baby’s life. There isn’t usually a planned wardrobe or anything fancy, because the point is to capture the memories in the hospital with the gowns and hospital swaddles. These sessions are usually very short, like 20 minutes short, because you’re busy in the hospital with the doctors. Just a quick little documentation of the experience after baby has arrived.
Newborn Photos
There are two main types of newborn photos and a handful of hybrids between the two
At Home- These sessions often are lifestyle- based and include your whole immediate family, with some emphasis on your new baby. Usually done within your home and are very relaxed, comfortable and use natural light.
In studio- These sessions, generally are completely focused on your newborn. Usually done with many props and almost always use flash photography. You may not get any pictures together with your baby at these sessions.
Cake Smash (first birthday) Photos
The last type of photos you may want to book is a Cake Smash session for your little one around their first birthday. Just one final photoshoot to cap the first year before your baby makes the transformation into toddlerhood. These photoshoots may take place within a studio or in your own home and typically the sole focus is on your baby smashing and eating their first birthday cake.