3 Tips for a Relaxed Charlottesville Newborn Session

Newborn photo sessions always bring such a sweet energy – there’s so much joy felt as new life is welcomed, but there’s also a bit of nervous energy too. As a mama myself, I know the many emotions of those early days.

Pure elation! Exhaustion. Pain. Savoring every second. Loving all the snuggles. So hungry! Figuring our nursing. Sneaking in naps.

And I’ve had newborn photo sessions for both of my daughters, so I’ve been on both sides of the camera! So, today I wanted to share my top 3 tips for a relaxed Charlottesville newborn photo session.

Tip One: Hire a Newborn Photographer You Trust and Enjoy

I know I’m saying this as a Charlottesville newborn photographer, but it’s so true. The newborn season is a vulnerable season, and welcoming someone into your home to document is a huge step! Take time to find a photographer who has a portfolio you love, but also be sure to jump on the phone and get to know them so you can see if you would be a great fit together. You want someone you’ll feel comfortable with so that you can relax, enjoy the experience and so you both can create amazing photos together!

Tip Two: Feed Your Newborn and Yourself

Before your photographer arrives, be sure to feed your newborn so that they are full and happy. It’s a delicate balance of trying to feed and burp baby before while also knowing they’ll need to eat again shortly, but don’t worry, it doesn’t need to be perfect. Personally, I’ll always give you space to rest, take breaks and feed baby as needed without rushing you along! I’ve been in this season myself and grace in the chaos is a gift! And along with feeding baby, make sure you feed yourself! It’s hard to juggle it all, but you deserve to be nourished too 🙂 

Tip Three: Savor the Season (and Expect the Unexpected)

The best thing you can do to have a relaxed session? Let things come as they may. Baby could be perfectly calm, or have just started cluster feeding. One thing that’s constant with newborns and children? Expect the unexpected. Even if the session isn’t going exactly how you imagined, try to breathe it all in and savor your people. These are  days you’ll always look back on (even if they are hard days!) with such fondness. Everyone in the family will feed off the energy in the room, so if you stay calm, that calmness will be transferred.  

Bonus Tip: A little Prep Goes a Long Way

Though you don’t need to stress clean and have the house spotless, a little prep ahead of your session can go a long way! Pick your outfits out the day before and tidy up the room that’s most important to you for photos. We can work around anything else! Also, plan to have takeout after the session that way you have one less thing to think about. 

___________________

Amy Nicole Photography (Amy Cherry) has been a photographer for over 15 years. Amy is a family, baby & newborn lifestyle photographer serving Charlottesville and Richmond, Virginia. She creates timeless, genuine and effortless photos for you and your family to enjoy for years to come. She offers on-location, at-home, studio and outdoor family photo sessions.