In November, the Shea family welcomed their third baby, just in time for Christmas! The Sheas reached out to me to take some studio newborn photos in Royal Oak, Michigan to capture their growing family. I was honored to document this precious moment for them!

I almost always start a newborn photography session with solo shots of the baby. You’ll want to be sure to follow the newborn prep guide I send upon booking to ensure the smoothest session possible. If the baby is not quite sleepy at the start of a session, we may start with some family photos first so they are most comfortable.

Solo portraits of babies may include utilizing a few props and wraps. I personally love swaddling babies because it helps us to position hands and feet just the way we want them in order to get the details of their fingers and toes. Plus, most babies love being swaddled! I typically use 1-2 baskets or boxes for solo poses for babies.

Every baby is unique, and it’s imperative that we remember that not all babies will sleep as easily through a session. Some newborns are fussy. I usually follow the lead of the baby during newborn photos. If the baby is uncomfortable in a pose, we simply will move on to the next one.

When to Schedule Newborn Photos

You’ll wan to schedule newborn photos within your second trimester before baby arrives. We will put your due date on the calendar, and plan the official newborn photography date once baby arrives. Babies are not always predicable, but a due date will help me make sure I have dates open for you within the ideal newborn photography window.

The most ideal time to take newborn photos is within the first two weeks of birth. This is when they are typically the sleepiest and most flexible. A sleepy baby is generally a happy baby, which is why I recommend scheduling photos around feeding and nap time as much as possible.

Flexibility can also help with achieving the wrapped newborn photos in the studio. In order to wrap them safely and comfortable, I will position their legs accordingly in the wrap to help them feel safe and secure.

Newborn Studio Photography in Royal Oak MI

My preferred studio for newborn photography is You’re So Fancy in Royal Oak. It’s right downtown, but just a few blocks from Main street so you don’t have to worry about downtown Royal Oak traffic. I specifically love that the studio has its own parking lot, so it’s easy to access! The studio does require walking up a flight of stairs to access. If stairs are a challenge for you, ask your photographer about other studio options.

You’re So Fancy does supply many props as part of its hourly studio rental. One of the reasons I prefer You’re So Fancy is the upkeep of the studio by its owner. You can have peace of mind knowing that the studio is always clean and ready to use!

Booking Newborn Studio Photography

If you’re interested in booking newborn photos in the studio, contact me today! We can create a plan for newborn photos based on your due date and vision for your photoshoot. You can also check out more about our newborn photography on our site.