Your Complete Guide to Newborn Photography Sessions in Denver
Bringing home a newborn is a whirlwind. Between feedings, naps that never seem to last, and visitors stopping by to meet the new baby, it can feel like there's no time to even think about photos. But this tiny, fleeting newborn stage disappears fast, and I always tell my clients: this is the one time you get to capture it.
I've put together this guide to walk you through exactly what to expect from a newborn session with me, from booking to delivery. My goal is to take all the guesswork out of it so you can just show up, relax, and let me handle the rest.
When to Book Your Session
I recommend booking your newborn session during pregnancy, ideally by your second trimester. Newborn sessions fill up fast, and babies don't wait for anyone, so locking in your spot early means I can hold space for you around your due date.
The Best Timing for Newborn Photos
The sweet spot for newborn sessions is 5 to 14 days old. During this window, babies are still curled up and sleepy, which makes those classic curled poses so much easier to capture. After two weeks, babies start to stretch out, get a little more alert, and aren't quite as bendy and snuggly for posing.
That said, every baby is different, and some come a little early or late. I'll work with you to find the best timing once your little one arrives.
How to Prepare Baby for the Session
A little prep goes a long way toward a smooth, sleepy session:
- Try to keep baby awake a bit longer than usual before we start, and feed right before the session begins. A full, sleepy baby is a cooperative baby.
- Keep baby's skin clear of marks from clothing or swaddles for a few hours beforehand if possible.
- Don't stress about a bath right before. A freshly bathed newborn can actually be more alert and fussy.
- Trust the process. I've worked with plenty of babies who needed extra soothing time, and that's completely normal.
What to Bring
You really don't need much. Here's what I suggest having on hand:
- Any sentimental items: a blanket, a stuffed animal, a hat someone knit, anything with meaning
- Snacks and water for yourself
- Extra diapers and wipes
- A pacifier, even if baby doesn't usually take one
Enter a Heading
Newborn sessions move at baby's pace, not the clock's. Here's generally how it goes:
- Warm-up and settle-in. We start slow. I keep the space warm and calm so baby feels secure.
- Feeding and soothing breaks as needed. If baby needs a break, we take one. There's no rushing a newborn.
- Posed portraits. This is where you'll see those classic curled, sleepy poses. Safety is always my top priority, and I'm trained in proper newborn handling and posing.
- Family and sibling portraits. We'll capture the whole family together, plus any siblings or pets you'd like included.
- Parent and baby portraits. Some of the most requested images from any session. These are the ones you'll treasure most.
Sessions typically run 2 to 3 hours. That might sound long, but it allows plenty of time for feeding, soothing, and outfit changes without anyone feeling rushed.
In-Home vs. Studio Sessions
If we're shooting in your home, I'll bring everything I need: lighting, blankets, wraps, and props. All I ask is that your space is warm (newborns are happiest around 80 degrees) and that we have a clear area near a window for natural light.
If we're meeting at a studio space, I'll have everything set up and ready before you arrive, so all you need to do is bring baby.
Including Siblings and Pets
I love incorporating siblings and pets when families want them included. A few tips: plan for shorter posed time with little ones since their patience runs out fast, and know that we'll capture authentic, candid moments alongside posed shots. Some of my favorite images come from the in-between moments, not just the picture-perfect ones.
After Your Session
Once we wrap up, I get to work editing your gallery. You'll receive a beautifully curated, professionally edited online gallery you can view, download, and share with family. From there, you'll have the option to order prints, albums, and wall art if you'd like to keep these memories close.
Ready to Book?
If you're expecting or have a newborn at home and want to capture this season before it slips by, I'd love to chat. I serve families across the Denver Metro area and would be honored to be part of your story.
📧 hello@sarapruephotography.com 🌐 sarapruephotography.com
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