Frequently Asked Questions
WHEN SHOULD I BOOK A NEWBORN SESSION?
Most families reserve their newborn appointments during their second or third trimester. This ensures that space is allocated on my calendar to photograph your baby during the ideal age (between 5 and 14 days old).
Every newborn photographer knows that babies do come early. Lauren will reserve your appointment on and around your due date, guaranteeing you have a spot in my schedule. Upon your baby’s arrival, you or someone you trust will contact Lauren to arrange your exact session date and time.
*To give each client the best service imaginable, Lauren books a limited number of monthly newborn portrait sessions. It is recommended that clients book newborn sessions as early as possible to ensure the availability of dates and to avoid disappointment. Lauren will make every effort to accommodate late bookings whenever her schedule allows.
HOW OLD SHOULD MY BABY BE FOR A NEWBORN SESSION?
Newborn sessions take place when your baby is 5-14 days old. During this time window, babies are very sleepy, easily posed, less fussy, and have become accustomed to nursing. As newborns get a little older, they tend to have more difficulty posing and have extended wake periods.
If you have an older newborn, don’t hesitate to reach out. I regularly photograph older babies and will be more than happy to arrange an appointment.
WHERE WILL MY BABY BE PHOTOGRAPHED?
All newborn sessions will occur inside your home or Lauren Carroll Photos Studio, Located in Portsalon, Donegal. I am located on the top floor of the Pier restaurant.
HOW SHOULD I DRESS MY NEWBORN FOR PHOTOS?
Dress your baby in clothes that are easy to take off and put back on. Make sure that the clothes are loose enough it won’t leave marks on their skin. Lauren provides everything needed for your newborn session. You’ll have access to an extensive collection of blankets, wraps, outfits, props, buckets, headbands, bonnets and other accessories to make your newborn session one of a kind.
If you have a prop/ outfit in mind, I would love to incorporate it in some photos for you. Please let me know if you would like to bring a prop/outfit ahead of time so I can make sure to match it accordingly to the set.
HOW LONG DOES A NEWBORN SESSION LAST?
I like to allow plenty of time for feeding, changing, and cuddling during your session, so plan the session to last between 2-3 hours. I advise we all start on a full stomach if possible. :)
CAN SIBLINGS BE A PART OF THE SESSION?
Absolutely!! I encourage the involvement of siblings and parents. I know how special the addition of a new member is, and I love it when the whole family is involved.
I always suggest taking sibling photos with their newest sibling first. That way, Dad or a trusted Family Member can take them afterwards so they don’t get too restless. If that isn’t an option, I recommend bringing something for them to do.
WHAT SHOULD I BRING TO MY NEWBORN SESSION?
This is one of the most common questions asked. You’ll want to bring your whole nappy bag, of course. That means dummies, extra diapers and wipes, burp cloths, formula and bottles if you formula-feed. You’ll also want to bring an outfit change for yourself because posing in photos with a naked baby can sometimes lead to surprises.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
This part is for the parents. Wear relaxed and comfortable clothing, as the room will be nice and warm, around 23-25 Celsius, if you would like to get in for a family photo. Neutral colours and tones always photograph well. Pale pinks, Creams, Maroon, Mustard Yellow, Navy Blue, Dark - Light Grey, and Dark Green. Please try to avoid logos and patterns on Shirts.
For Dad - please bring a simple t-shirt, black or white, to the session along with your main outfit.
HEALTH AND SAFETY
The health and safety of your family and newborn are my top priority.
I understand a newborn’s vulnerable immune system, having a little boy of my own, and I take every precaution to guarantee the sanitation of my tools and props. In case the photographer or client becomes ill, the session will be rescheduled.
Lauren will never risk a baby’s safety during a session. She will not pose your baby in any unsafe ways or unstable props. Poses are always easy and comfortable for your fragile new baby.
