Having your baby’s portraits done is a fun experience, but it can also be stressful if you are worried about how the session will go. Babies don’t know it’s picture day, so nothing is going to stop them from being cranky, spitting up on their brand new outfit, or crying during the entire shoot. There are some things you can do to help things go smoothly, however. Here are some tips for getting ready for your baby’s picture day.
1. Try to schedule the portrait session for your baby’s awake times. In the morning, right after she wakes up, or right after her afternoon nap will work best. If you try to take pictures when your baby is tried, you are just asking for a meltdown.
2. Offer a bottle or a snack right before the session. A fed baby is a happy baby! Most babies are also very smiley right after a meal, at least mine was!
3. Bring several outfits. It is quite possible that your baby might spit up on your favorite clothes, so plan several favorites ahead of time. Don’t stress if you have to do a costume change in the middle of the shoot. It will add variety to your pictures.
4. Bring your baby’s favorite toy for the photographer to hold near the camera. It will help to get her attention and make her smile right at the camera, which is what you want.
5. Step out of view (unless your baby will cry, of course) so that your baby will focus on what the photographer is doing and not you. If you must stay in view, stand directly behind the photographer so your baby won’t be staring off to the side in all of the photos.
6. If your baby does start crying, give her a chance to cheer up, but if she doesn’t, call it a wrap. She is trying to tell you that she is done and pushing her will not get you the photos that you want.
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