Preparing for your newborn session with Amber Welch Photography
Congratulations on your new baby! Thank you so much for allowing me the amazing and rewarding job of photographing your new little one in his/her first few days of life. Newborns are my passion and I consider myself truly blessed to be around these little miracles so much.
My studio is located in a separate area of my home at 30708 S. Oak Dr. Inola, Ok 74036
PLEASE READ: Some GPS’s lead to the wrong house! When entering my neighborhood onto Carpenter Lane, turn right at stop sign onto Oak Dr. I’m the last house on the left before the next stop sign. There is a large pond right across the street from my house. 30708 is on our mailbox.
What To Expect
The morning before your session, try to have some awake time for about an hour before you need to leave. Then plan to feed right before you leave your house. Giving them a bath, let them kick with only a diaper, tickle their toes. This will help ensure those squishy, sleepy newborn pictures! I can't stress enough that it's so important to do your best to keep them awake at least a little while. Many parents come in saying "baby has been sleeping all morning, but trust me, he sleeps SO good this time of day!" only to have baby wake up, since they will be unclothed and unswaddled. If they had some awake time, it is ok if they fall asleep on the drive to the studio, I actually prefer that. When you arrive, if you're able to, leave them asleep in their carseat and I will try to transition them out of it inside the studio. It will be at least 80 degrees in the studio. Due to this, I am dressed for a warm few hours and suggest you do too! Sessions last on average 1 1/2-2 hours (1 hour or less for mini), sometimes longer if baby is a light sleeper, or is hungry! The easiest way to ensure a sleepy baby is the willingness to nurse/bottlefeed off and on. I know many new mom's aren't using pacifiers right away. In my experience though, they are EXTREMELY helpful in my sessions. If you don't mind, please be flexible in letting me use one during your baby's pictures. It will help keep them calm and content. The soothie type without the animal attached is best! It won't leave marks on their face and 95% of the babies I've worked with will take one from me. If you don’t happen to have one, I keep brand new soothies here in the studio (as well as plenty of newborn diapers). However if you really prefer that we don’t use one, that’s fine as well! Please dress the baby in a zipper or snap up the front sleeper. They are easier to take off, than something that goes over their heads. I will undress baby when you arrive and try to get started right away.
For Parents
Mom & Dad you are a big part of the show. Photographing the connection between you and your baby is one of my all time favorite things. For Dads I ask that you bring a t-shirt(or other solid colored top) to wear with a good pair of jeans. Moms: a solid t-shirt, tank or dress all work well. Keep the color neutral and design simple. Blacks, white or cream are most popular. No nail polish or neutral looks best, as your hands will make their way into the images. Also, rest assured, I aim to photograph using flattering angles and light to bring out the natural beauty in your family.
For Siblings
Sister(s): A well fitted shirt or simple dress will look best. Just as with mom, no nail polish please.
Brother(s): A snug pair of jeans and tshirt is perfect.
Matching tops look best for all children, but coordinating neutral colors works also. Stay away from busy patterns when possible as to not distract from the baby. I will wrap baby to coordinate with siblings.
Bringing your little ones snacks and some sort of entertainment to keep them occupied while I’m working with the baby is a great idea. Some families also prefer to have a grandparent, family member or even dad take the siblings home after their portion of the session. That’s not mandatory though. If the weather is nice, I don’t mind one of you supervising them in my backyard as well. It is my hope that you come to the studio feeling comfortable and at home. I am truly honored to be able to document this incredible time in your lives and look forward to getting to know you and your sweet baby!
