Newborn Session Prep Guide

Jan 27

Written By Bernice Isley

The Baby Whisperer’s Prep Checklist

A Stress-Free Guide by Mess of a Dreamer Photography

Voted Top 3 Newborn & Family Photographer in Northeast Raleigh

🗓️ Phase 1: The Booking (2nd Trimester)

[ ] Secure your date: Reach out early! I recommend booking by week 20 to ensure a spot on the calendar.
[ ] Choose your vibe: Decide between a cozy In-Home Lifestyle session or a curated Studio session.
[ ] Sign & Seal: Complete your contract and retainer to officially lock in your "due date window."

👗 Phase 2: The Wardrobe (2 Weeks Before)

[ ] Coordinate, don't match: Pick a color palette of 3-4 neutral tones (creams, tans, soft blues/pinks).
[ ] Check the fit: Ensure outfits for older siblings are comfortable and not itchy.
[ ] Steamer duty: Steam or iron outfits and hang them up so they are ready to grab.
[ ] Nails & Details: Simple, neutral nail polish or clean natural nails look best in those close-up "hand-on-baby" shots.

🏠 Phase 3: The Environment (For In-Home Sessions)

[ ] The "Master" Plan: Clear the nightstands in the primary bedroom of any non-decor items (phones, water bottles, meds).
[ ] Nursery Prep: Ensure the crib or rocking chair area is clear of clutter.
[ ] Turn up the heat: 30 minutes before I arrive, set the thermostat to 75°F. A warm baby is a sleepy baby!

🍼 Phase 4: The Morning Of (2 Hours Before)

[ ] The "Wake" Window: Try to keep baby awake for 1–2 hours before the session (a bath helps!).
[ ] The Big Feed: Time a full feeding to end right as our session begins. We want that "milk drunk" sleepiness.
[ ] Dress for Success: Put baby in a simple diaper and a loose-fitting button-up or zip-up sleeper (nothing that has to go over their head).
[ ] Pack the "Emergency Kit": Have a pacifier, extra wipes, and a backup outfit for yourself (just in case of spit-ups!) nearby.

A Note from Bernice:

"The most important thing to bring? Patience. If baby cries, we stop. If baby needs to eat, we wait. We are here to capture the magic, not the stress. I can't wait to meet your little dreamer!"