G DOVASTON Photography
Newborn Session Prep
Congratulations you're entering such a special time and I cannot wait to capture it.
On this page you'll fine all the tips and tricks for being super prepared for your upcoming newborn session.
G DovastON pHOTOGRAPHY
newborn session.
- Newborn sessions are typically best done within 5–14 days of birth (but there definitely is flexibility with this and we will work it in with what works for your family). The session length is usually about 1.5-2 hours. It will be calm, gentle, baby-led, no pressure. We will stop for feeding, cuddle and changing breaks - this is all part of it and I expect these breaks to happen!
- We will capture snuggly moments, little details, family cuddles—not just those 'posed' shots. My newborn style is the same as any other session of mine: the “refined but real” style, natural light, and relaxed posing.
- Soft, neutral colours, textures, minimal patterns; coordinate rather than match works really well for outfits in these sessions.
- I have extensive womens + newborns client wardrobe, a few mens linen shirts and a handful of younger children outfits you can use during your session. You can find these HERE
- Siblings are such fun and very important parts of sessions - we will usually try and do any full family or sibling shots first to give them a break to do their own thing while we focus on your newest little member.
- What to bring: A few extra outfits for baby, any sentimental items, dummy (even if not usually used).
REALLY IMPORTANT THINGS to let me know ASAP!
Please let me know ASAP once baby arrives just so we can get your session date and time booked in, aiming for within that beautiful first 14 day period if possible.
If you have any shots you're wanting to 'replicate' (eg from a siblings session etc) please send them through prior to the day so I can make sure this isn't forgotten.
Any Women's, Children's or Men's client wardrobe outfits you'd like out ready to try or wear
"Grace has had our family in front of her camera many of times and whilst I'm still amazed by her work time and time again, nothing quite compares to the special moments with your newborn baby that she captures so perfectly to remember forever. - Such a special chapter to treasure and look back on so we never forget the small details that are often fleeting"
-Mikayla
EXTRA TIPS
Please never be worried if your baby is having an unsettled day and needing extra cuddles - this is so normal and we will go with the flow. You will still come away with a beautiful gallery - I promise.
I know it can be tempting to, but try not to moisturise your baby's skin right before a session it can give the skin a shiny look.
Feeding photos - I will always double check before I take any but they can be such special photos to have (no matter how you are feeding; bottle, breast, pumping or mixed it's all amazing and such a journey) - I will never share these unless you've given permission.
You will get a few sneak peeks with-in 24 hours typically sent through via DM or email, and your gallery within 2 weeks from your session date. Delivered via online gallery for download.
In-Home
I use natural light (from the windows) —so please open any blinds/curtains beforehand. I'll turn lights off as I go as they can sometimes cause shadows.
A light declutter of bedroom/lounge can be helpful (but I'll also help move things if needed on the day).
Keep the home warm so baby is comfy if undressed. It doesn't have to be too hot - a comfortable 't-shirt temperature' is perfect.
We will most likely mainly use the master bedroom, nursery, lounge and maybe a little spot near a big window for the beanbag set up. Please please don't feel like you need to have all areas of your home 'photograph ready' you absolutely don't need to!! I never want you to stress about this.
It will be a super relaxed start to the session, I’ll arrive and set up my things and let you finish getting ready then we will get started - absolutely no rush! Newborn sessions are not time limited and are more a 'go-with-flow' style session.
Pets: We can certainly include them - We will usually try for this shot at the beginning or end and then they can go back to doing pet things.
STUDIO
My studio is located in my home in Mclean St Warracknabeal - Please feel free to park in the driveway or on the nature strip or where ever feels easiest, and then come to the front door and I will bring you through to the studio.
I use natural light (from the windows) in my studio so it has a lovely bright but natural feel as you walk in, The temperature is kept comfortable but not too warm as it is a small space - it can be quickly adjusted to cool or heat if needed.
The space is cosy but its big enough to get a lovely variety of photos.
I provide all the blankets, wraps, outfits, accessories for your newborn session. All these items have been selected to best compliment the studio space in colours I know work well ( however you are also more than welcome to bring your own outfits etc if you've got something special.)
We will always attempt the sibling/full family photos first and then often Dad or one parent/helper can take any kids off to the park or go and get hot or cool drink at one of our lovely cafes in town - i highly recomend 'The Local' or 'Cafe Peppercorn'.
The studio space is quite small so sometimes doing this just helps keep it nice and calm for the baby focused section. You are more than welcome to bring snacks for them - I just ask that they are dry snacks please.
My studio is home based, so there is access to a microwave, kettle and toilet if required.
Please pop in a dummy - as this is often really helpful in session. Wipes, nappies and a bottle are all also useful things to have handy.
Pets: Unfortunately I cannot accomodate pets in the studio at the current time.
FRESH 48
Real raw and in those first 48 hours.
These sessions are typically done at the hospital, are very special and kept super natural - capturing the specialness of this time - whether it's your older kids meeting your baby for the first time or just simply those very first hours with your baby. Please get in touch if this is something you're interested in - these sessions are super limited each month.
