Should You Bring Props to Your Newborn Photo Shoot?
If you have a baby on the way and you’ve been browsing newborn photos online to get inspiration for your little one’s portraits, you might have noted that a lot of them feature some sort of props. You’ll see soft blankets, cozy bassinets or baskets for the baby to lie in, and more.
Parents often ask, are these props supplied, or do they need to bring their own? When it comes time for your baby’s newborn photo shoot, what props should you bring?
Do You Need to Bring Props for Your Newborn Photos?
Every photographer has their own policies and practices, so this can vary. At my Mercer Island photo studio, though, the short answer is “no,” you don’t need to bring any props for your photo shoot.
I aim to make photo shoots easy and stress-free for my clients, and in newborn photography, that includes having everything we’ll need for your baby’s portraits at my studio and ready to go. I have a wide selection of props to use, and even newborn wraps and accessories, so all you need to bring is your own attire for the portraits and anything you and your baby might need to be comfortable throughout the session.
I’m a mom too, and I’ve been in your shoes! I know very well that you have a lot on your plate in your baby’s first weeks, while you’re also recovering from giving birth, so I’ve designed my photo studio and my client experience to be easy for you. That ranges from having all the props we’ll need for your session to working with you directly to plan your session so that you’ll know exactly what to expect.
Items You Can Bring if You Choose
While you don’t have to bring anything to your baby’s photo shoot, some of my clients have special items they want to incorporate into their baby’s photos. You’re welcome to bring these items if you’d like! Some ideas can include:
A garment you wore as a baby that you’re passing down to your child, like a particular dress, a necklace or smaller jewelry that you find meaningful
Items from your wedding to celebrate the continuing story of your family, like your veil, your wedding dress, or your ring pillow
Items that celebrate an important part of you and/or your partner - for example, first responders or veterans might bring their uniform, or you might bring items from a special hobby or passion of yours
During your planning consultation, we’ll chat about anything special you’d like to incorporate into your baby’s portraits so I can plan ahead for the perfect way to honor your heirloom.
If you’re eagerly awaiting your baby’s arrival and you’re ready to start planning your newborn photo shoot, let’s chat! Contact Jaimié Birtel Photography to book your portraits.