3 Smart Ways to Prepare for an Outdoor Newborn Photography Session
If you ask me, outdoor newborn photography sessions are here to stay. Although in-home newborn photoshoots will always have their place, there is just something about sharing your newborn with a beautiful outdoor backdrop. It ads to the artwork when it is placed on the walls of a home. It sets a time and place for the start of a newborn’s life by exhibiting both the season and the geographic location. And, when the location is chosen well, can be just plain gorgeous!
Having your newborn session outdoors though, does come with different challenges than an indoor session. In fact, it has more challenges than an indoor session. We are photographing a newborn that may be fussy, just like we would indoors. But now we’ve taken the party to a location that isn’t readily stocked with diapers, a changing table, and a closet full of back-up clothes. We also have to contend with the elements.
With all that added though, I still do truly believe that an outdoor newborn photoshoot is worth it. And here are three ways to make that outdoor newborn photography session even easier and prepare for that session so that it is a success:
Way #1 - Dress for the Weather
That short sleeved onsie you picked out in the store is cute, I’m sure. But if we’re doing a fall, winter, or early spring outdoor session, let’s choose something else. It is so important to make sure that everyone is dressed appropriately for the weather. It makes for more smiles and, of course, ensures a higher level of safety.
When it comes to dressing the newborn, think layers. Babies actually tend to get really hot during newborn sessions and not really cold, because they are being held so much. When considering layers, think not only about their actual clothes but also if you want to wrap them in anything. Choosing a swaddle that is the appropriate weight for a newborn session is one way to get them at the right temperature outside.
Way #2 - Bring an Extra Set of Outfits
Things happen with a newborn. So plan appropriately. Make sure that everyone has an extra set of outfits or, at the very least, an extra shirt. Spit up definitely happens during photo sessions. It can even be a good idea to dress when you get to the location. If you do this though, make sure that you’re dressed before the start of the session. I don’t know how many times I’ve met with a family and then can’t start a session for another 15 minutes because mom needs to help get the kids and newborn dressed, before she can get dressed. Once the session time elapses, there is no going back. So get there early and get dressed before the session starts, if you decide that you won’t be getting dressed until you’re at the session.
Way #3 - Bring the Outdoor Essentials
Keep the season in mind and prepare for it. If it is summer, make sure you have mosquito repellent. This is so important as so many outdoor locations have mosquitoes. Also, we are now dealing with ticks in Colorado, so repellent is the way to go. What do you do for the newborn? Since the newborn is going to be held by someone in the party nearly all the time, their mosquito repellent should protect the newborn as well.
And make sure to bring water. We are at altitude after all.
Sara Herkes is a maternity, newborn, family, and senior photographer based in Longmont, CO. She serves the the Denver Metro Area, the Colorado Rockies, and the Northern Front Range and captures your pregnancy amidst the Colorado wilderness. Learn more about her services here.
The Ultimate Maternity Photography Guide
Check Out These Blog Posts Below
