Capturing the first days of your baby’s life through photography is a beautiful and timeless way to preserve memories. As a Houston-based photographer specializing in newborn photography, Lissette understands the delicate nature of working with babies and offers personalized tips to help parents prepare for a successful portrait session.

In this guide, we’ll cover essential advice on how to prepare your baby for their first in-home photoshoot. With Lissette’s expertise, you’ll ensure a smooth session and create stunning images that you’ll cherish for years.

1. Timing is Key: When to Schedule the Photoshoot

For newborn photography, timing plays an important role in achieving those serene, curled-up poses. While many photographers recommend sessions within the first two weeks, Lissette’s sweet spot for these sessions is typically between 2-3 weeks old. However, some parents prefer scheduling the session earlier, and she is adept at capturing beautiful portraits at any point within the first three months of life.
Lissette’s experience allows her to work with babies of all ages, ensuring that she can capture those precious newborn moments regardless of timing.

2. Create a Comfortable Environment at Home

One of the benefits of in-home sessions is that your baby will be in a familiar and comfortable space. Lissette specializes in photographing babies in their nursery, capturing intimate shots of the baby in their room. Here are a few tips to make sure your home is ready for the session:

• Warm Up the Room: Babies tend to sleep better and stay calm when they’re warm. Consider slightly increasing the temperature in the nursery to keep the baby comfortable during outfit changes and posing.
• Declutter the Nursery: Clear out any distractions in the nursery so the focus remains on your baby. Simple backgrounds help create timeless portraits.

3. Prepare Your Baby for a Good Nap

A sleeping baby is key to achieving those peaceful newborn poses. Lissette shares a few tips with her clients to help ensure the baby sleeps deeply during the portrait:

• Feed the Baby Before the Session: A well-fed baby is more likely to be calm and relaxed. Try to schedule feeding time right before the session to encourage a long nap.
• Keep the Baby Awake Before the Session: If possible, gently keep your baby awake for an hour or two before the portrait. This will increase the chances of them falling into a deep sleep once the session starts.

4. Outfits and Props: Tailored to Your Vision

When it comes to newborn portraits, Lissette works closely with each family to bring their vision to life. She provides all the props, outfits, and accessories needed for the session. If you have specific ideas, such as a themed setup like a chef or a woodland scene, Lissette will discuss these details during the consultation and make arrangements ahead of time. The session can be minimalistic or more elaborate, depending on your preference.

• Neutral Colors and Soft Fabrics: While neutral tones and simple fabrics often create a timeless look, Lissette can incorporate more vibrant or themed setups based on your desires.
• Personal Touches: If you’d like to include a special item, like a family heirloom or a favorite toy, Lissette seamlessly integrates these into the portraits, ensuring a personalized experience.

5. Expect Some Flexibility in the Schedule

One of the reasons why in-home portraits are so convenient is that they offer flexibility. Babies can be unpredictable, and Lissette understands that breaks for feeding, changing, or soothing may be necessary. She works patiently with each family, allowing time for your baby to get settled before capturing those magical moments.

Remember, newborn sessions can take anywhere from 2-4 hours, and that’s perfectly normal. The priority is making sure your baby feels calm and relaxed throughout the process.

6. The Importance of Comfort and Safety

Lissette’s experience as a newborn photographer in Houston ensures that your baby’s comfort and safety are always the top priority. With years of experience working with newborns, she knows exactly how to gently position babies to achieve those heartwarming poses without causing discomfort.

In addition to her skill in posing, Lissette ensures that all blankets, wraps, and props used in the session are soft and safe for your newborn’s delicate skin.

7. Post-Session Consultation: Selecting Your Favorite Portraits

After the session, Lissette takes the time to offer a personalized consultation to help parents select their favorite portraits. During this session, she works closely with families to choose the images that will best capture the essence of their baby’s first weeks.

Not only does Lissette assist with selecting images, but she also specializes in helping families design custom wall art for their home. From framed prints to canvas designs, Lissette ensures your memories are displayed beautifully.

Conclusion

Preparing your baby for their first portrait can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance, it can be an enjoyable experience. By working with Lissette, a professional newborn photographer in Houston, you can be confident that every detail—from timing the session to creating a comfortable environment—will be handled with care and expertise.
Her unique approach includes working in the comfort of your home, capturing the baby’s nursery, and offering personalized consultations to help you design artwork that will bring your memories to life. With Lissette’s guidance, your newborn portraits will be a treasured keepsake for years to come.