Everyone expected that I would photograph Finn’s newborn photos, but I knew that I’d want to have a professional do it. Yes, yes–I’m technically a “professional” photographer myself, but newborn photography requires a very specific skill set (not to mention a well-lit studio, backdrops, props, incredible patience, etc.), and I’ll be the first to admit that it’s not my photographic strength. So, we decided to have Patricia from Patricia Anderson Photography do Finn’s newborn session.

Patricia was a miracle worker, and I learned A LOT (both as a mom and as a photog), watching her during the nearly 3-hour session.

Based on my experience both having photographed newborns and having my newborn photographed, here are some tips I have for getting the kinds of photos you will love forever:

• If you want the perfect posed shots, like many of the ones here, you have to do the session within the first 12 days or so. The younger the infant, the more likely they will sleepily cooperate.
• Sleepy babies are the most cooperative babies. So, make sure they are sleepy for their session. This might mean keeping them up for a couple hours beforehand (we did this and it was torture, but Finn snoozed the entire time).
• Do one big feed right before the photos. That way, your little one is full, happy, and drowsy.
• Keep the photography location–whether your home or a studio–warm. VERY warm. When Finn got his photos done, the studio was nearly 90 degrees. Sona and I had to step outside a few times, but Finn loved it. When I shoot at a client’s home, I tell them to crank up the heat before I arrive. Space heaters can be great, too, if used safely.
• Do the things you do when you’re trying to get your infant to sleep. Mostly, have some kind of sound machine and a diffuser. We use both of these at home when Finn is sleeping, and most newborn photogs use them in their studios, too.
• Make sure you have access to lots of natural light. For me, this is hugely important, and it is one of the first questions I ask when parents contact me, wanting me to come shoot baby photos in their home.
• Take a backseat, parents. Finn knows when we are near, and he would want us if we hovered too much. So, for most of his session, we stayed out of the way. Also, as a photographer, I can tell you that nothing makes you second-guess yourself like a parent standing over your shoulder. Hire a photographer you trust, and let them do their best work.
• Most importantly, hire a professional. There’s such a small window in which to catch these itty bitty lovies. Don’t let it pass you by and then regret not having captured such sweet, fleeting moments.
• Also, don’t forget that most photographers have gift certificates, and you can add a newborn session to your baby registry.

And now, because I’m a proud momma who can’t help but show off my little doll (no, really, is it out of fashion to pull out a wallet with a plastic fold-out full of photos???), here are some of our favorites from Finn’s session.