You just had a baby, Yay! This is an exciting time full of new experiences with your new little love. Childbirth is beautiful and bringing a human into the world is an incredible experience. But let's be honest, this is also a challenging time as you recover and transition from the 3rd trimester to the 4th trimester. You may feel like you just got hit by a truck. Your body is sore from delivery, your uterus is cramping, your milk is just coming in, and your pelvis feels like it has new joints that didn't exist before. While some people bounce back super quickly, most women find that it takes at least a few weeks before movements start to feel normal again. In the midst of sleep deprivation, feedings, and recovery, you remember that you have newborn photos scheduled. Though you might be feeling a little less like yourself in these early days of motherhood, you just brought a whole new human into the world which kinda makes you a superhero. Mama, you should feel strong, beautiful, and empowered. So, here are some tips to help you feel your best for your newborn photoshoot.

1) Let your photographer know of any restrictions in movement

For instance, if you had a C-section or are having any other challenges with movement, let your photographer know. If it's uncomfortable to lay on your belly or if you have limitations on how much you can lift, these are important points for your photographer. Telling me ahead of time will allow us to avoid any uncomfortable or potentially harmful positions when photographing you and your new bundle of sweetness.

2) Ask for Help

Don't be afraid to reach out to a loved one to help you during your newborn photoshoot. Your significant other, mom, sibling, or a close friend can be helpful for assisting with hair, makeup, baby holding, or sibling wrangling. Having an extra set of hands can help relieve any stress you may have about getting ready for photos.

3) Plan Your Wardrobe

Choose clothing that is comfortable and makes you feel beautiful. Something with a soft or wide waistband, like a maxi skirt, leggings, or maternity pants may be more comfortable immediately postpartum than fitted pants. It typically takes 6-8 weeks for your uterus to shrink back to its pre-pregnancy size. Some mamas prefer to highlight this stage of childbirth to normalize the post-partum experience. If, however, you're feeling at all self-conscious about your postpartum body, choosing clothes that you love can help you feel confident in your photos. Wearing a flowy fitting top or adding a cardigan to your outfit can also help finish off the look. Regardless, mama, I encourage you to choose clothes that you love for yourself first and then coordinate the rest of the family around you. For more tips on coordinating outfits, check out this article about what to wear for your photo session.

4) Eat

As a new mama, there are so many tasks that need to be accomplished that, often times, your needs get shifted down the list. But don't forget to take care of yourself. (This is where having that extra set of hands can be really helpful!) Make sure you take the time to eat, take a shower, breathe, and relax. Even if it's only five or ten minutes, taking a moment for yourself can be rejuvenating. Having a little 'me time' is important in every day life, but on photo day, it can actually make you look more natural and relaxed as we celebrate your growing family.

5) Let me know if we need to Pause

Newborn sessions are, by design, a little longer than a typical family session. The main reason is because we allow extra time for any baby or mama needs that arise. If baby needs a break to eat or have a diaper changed, let me know. I want everyone to feel comfortable and enjoy the experience of being photographed. There is no need to worry about timing out feedings or nap times just right for the session. If we need to take a pause to rock your little one to sleep, then we will.

Updated January 19, 2024

© Eickhoff Photography