A Guide to the Perfect Newborn Photoshoot in Dubai

I wanted to start this blog with my own story.

I have two daughters 7 and 9 years old, and only after giving birth to a second child, I booked a professional photoshoot for the whole family. By a whole family I mean including me in a frame.

Back in 2014 I already started my photography journey and I am so lucky to have many photos of my baby girl. A lot of them.

But you know what? I don't have many photos with me in these photos. At least the first months after giving birth I was too preoccupied with the new life in front of my life. I was scared, excited, and tired. Very tired. To be a mom is not an easy job and when you gave birth for the first time it's damn frightening.

My body changed and I didn't like it a lot, let's face it and I will be honest with you.

I didn't want to be in front of the camera at that time. Only after giving birth to a second child, I understood how silly I was.

I look at my photos now and see only how great our life was. Photos bring me back to that time spent in our apartment in Kyiv or in the garden in summertime.

I do remember that particular day when the girls were so tiny. On our newborn photoshoot, Amelia who was only a few days old, decided to poo a few minutes before the arrival of a photographer. Her and my clothes were destroyed but I just changed and it was funny, to be honest. She was a calm baby but that particular morning she stayed awake most the time when a photographer was capturing our life. Was it a disaster? Of course not. It didn't go the way I had in my mind, but sometimes we need to let things happen.

You need to understand that it's a part of our life.

With difficulties but challenges are a part of our life, isn't it?

A newborn photoshoot is a cherished opportunity to freeze time and capture the fleeting moments of your baby's earliest days.

Let me give you several reasons why:

1) Time Flies So Fast: Babies grow rapidly, believe me. Their tiny fingers and toes, sleep smiles, and delicate features change in the blink of an eye. The photos will preserve those moments for a long time. Especially when they are newborns.

2) Family Connection: A newborn photoshoot captures the bond between you as parents and your child, siblings, and extended family, resulting in images that celebrate the love, connection and togetherness. You are now in a new role and the images will remind you of that.

3) Shared Joy: The photos can be shared with friends and family who are unable to be present in those early days, bringing them into the celebration of your new addition. From my personal experience by sharing your joy with others you fulfill yourself and people around you.

To make it simple, a newborn photoshoot is more than just a collection of images.

It is a heartfelt investment in preserving the love, memories, and magic that come with the arrival of a newborn baby. The photos will ensure that you will share your life not only with your friends, relatives and family but with generations to come in the future. Share your love for the hundreds of years ahead.

You might have heard a term "lifestyle photography".

And I hope you do. But I will cover the basic principles of this kind of photography anyway. It's good to remind ourselves why it's so special. Because this is why I chose this genre and want others to see the value in it.

Lifestyle newborn photography is a distinct approach to capturing your real life with a baby. There will be no special settings, big lamps or too many posed images. Such photoshoots are designed to capture your true daily life.

Here are a few key reasons why it's so special:

1) Authentic Moments: Lifestyle newborn photography focuses on genuine and unposed moments. It means you will interact with each other without paying much attention to me. I will silently start capturing your life and give some directions where to go if there will be any necessity. The main idea is to capture not somebody's "Pinterest look like" life. Everything is about you.

2) Personalized Settings: I always encourage families to have newborn photoshoot in their own home, using their surroundings to tell a story. This results in unique and meaningful photographs. Your home is unique so are the images.

3) Comfort and Less Stress: Being at home provides a comfortable and relaxed environment for your family. This comfort translates into natural and heartfelt images.

4) Family-Centric: Lifestyle newborn photography not only spotlights the baby but also highlights the relationships and emotions within the family. It's about telling the story of this special time in everyone's lives. It's about you all.

5) Less Posed, More Spontaneous: Unlike traditional newborn photography, lifestyle sessions are less about formal posing and more about capturing the organic and real interactions and emotions of the moment. Any tiny detail is worth capturing.

6) Storytelling: The photos create a visual narrative of the family's journey. It's like creating your own family movie about your story. Images can tell a story that can be revisited and cherished for years to come. These photoshoots usually incorporate everyday activities, like feeding, diaper changes, and cuddling, making it a true reflection of the family's daily life.

In summary, lifestyle newborn photography is about preserving the beauty of real-life moments and the love that surrounds the arrival of a new baby.

I know that when you give birth to a baby your body changes. A lot. I was there and I must say it didn't feel okay. Apart from that, when you return home with a new little person there are too many things going on. No time to think of a photoshoot or finding the right photographer. You think that you don't need it right now. Your baby doesn't sleep well and you are tired. I was there as well... With the first baby.

Do I regret of not taking photos when we returned back from a hospital home? Yes, I do. I would like to see how tired but happy we were. I would like to spend time choosing the right outfit for a baby. Lucky me, I did take photos of my daughter. But, I wish I was more on a photos.

This is why I want to give you few inspiring things how to let the fear go away and book your newborn photoshoot in advance. Because when you do it in advance, there will be no way back.

Feeling confident in front of the camera during a lifestyle newborn photoshoot is essential to capture authentic moments. I will give some tips for a newborn mom to boost your confidence here:

1) Find a photographer you connect with: it's very important. Explore the webpage, or go to her/his social media pages. Find as much information as possible. Think if a photographer's vision resonates with you.

2) Meet a photographer in person: I believe it's important to meet a photographer before the real photoshoot. I do always invite my clients to meet and discuss the expectations. It's important for me and I see how more relaxed they become after our meeting, even through they don't fully understand it. If we live in the same city I always do this. Because they will know who will knock on their door on a photoshoot day. Go for a cup of tea or coffee in a cafe. Or invite the photographer to your home, show the rooms and tell your story. If the photographer is busy and not really into meeting up, think twice if you want to share your day with her/him.

3) Discuss Expectations: Have a conversation with your photographer before the shoot. Share any specific preferences or concerns you have. Knowing what to expect can ease anxiety. A photographer can share ideas and probably you will change your mind, and you will feel excited to try things you never thought of.

4) Stay Relaxed: Remember that lifestyle photography is about capturing real-life moments. There's no need to pose or act differently. Don't look at the camera without being invited to do so. Just be yourself and enjoy the experience.

5) Wear What You Love: Select clothing that makes you feel comfortable and confident. You'll feel more at ease if you're dressed in an outfit you adore.

6) Find or buy clothes for the photoshoot in advance: please, go shopping or order things online a few weeks or months in advance. The closer your due date the less time you will spend on thinking of it. So not to feel upset in the end, go and enjoy shopping.

7) Natural Interaction: Interact with your baby as you normally would. Even if you don't know how. Play, cuddle, feed, and change diapers as you usually do. These authentic moments result in beautiful and real photos.

8) Forget About Perfection: Lifestyle and documentary photography embrace imperfections. You don't need to worry about a perfectly clean house or matching outfits. Authenticity is more important.

9) Use Inspirational Photos: Look at newborn photography that inspires you. Go to Pinterest, Instagram or Youtube. It can help you visualize the type of images you'd like to create and boost your confidence. Share your finding with a photographer.

Remember, that the essence of a newborn photography is to capture the natural and unscripted moments that make your family unique. Trust in your own beauty as a new mom. You are perfect the way you are.

I wish I could tell you that you don't need to prepare anything, but it will not be true. You might be reluctant to even think of preparing for a photosession and cancel everything.

Try to enjoy the process of preparation. I will show you how you can do it.

Think this way - it will be a new experience for you. And any experience gives you growth. Inner and outer. It makes you a little bit better version of yourself.

Any photoshoot means you spend your time thinking of what's the most important you want to remember about. It's time to sit and think. To visualize. It's time to create, to create your story.

Here are a list of a few important things I would like you to think about:

1) Timing: Schedule the photoshoot within the first two weeks of your baby's life. Newborns are sleepier and more cooperative during this period. Before your due date try to clean your house a little bit so it will be less effort after you return home from the hospital.

2) Location: Lifestyle newborn photography is often done in the comfort of your own home. Choose a room or area that receives natural light, like the nursery, bedroom, or living room. You can choose as many rooms as you want to capture the whole story of your life.

3) Prepare the Space: Clear the chosen rooms of clutter and personal items that you don't want in the photos. Keep the space tidy but remember that lifestyle photography embraces a natural, lived-in look. Don't stress too much. Your photographer will help you to clean space if there will be any need. Sometimes you don't know what is captured in the frame. Probably it's only your happy faces and the background is blurred.

4) Plan the Wardrobe: Decide on outfits for both you, your parner and your baby. If your parents will join you, think of clothes for them as well. If you have any pets... well, they don't need any outfits ;) Opt for comfortable, neutral-colored clothing that complements the relaxed and authentic nature of lifestyle photography.

5) Natural Light Matters: Make sure the room has good natural light. It's better to work with available light to create soft and flattering images. Open curtains or blinds to let in the sunlight.

6) Include Siblings and Pets: If you have other children or pets, consider including them in the photoshoot as well. Lifestyle photos with the whole family is what it's about!

7) Discuss Your Vision: Communicate with your photographer about your vision and preferences. Share any specific ideas or poses you'd like to try. Or you can just trust your photographer but better spend some time and find inspiring photos.

8) Make a plan: I always suggest creating a plan you can follow or change if something goes the way you didn't expect. Your photographer can also suggest making a plan. By a plan I mean thinking of activities you can do on a day of a photoshoot. It will add you confidence. Because you will know what to expect when the photographer will come. Be an Art Director of your story or let your photographer help you with it. Start from the nursery or a bedroom, go to the living room and finish in the garden. It's just an example.

9) Trust Your Photographer: Finally, trust your photographer's expertise. This is why find a photographer you resonate with.

By following these tips, you can plan a newborn photoshoot that preserves the special moments and the intimate, unscripted beauty of your baby's first days at home.

Understanding what to expect on the day of an in-home newborn photoshoot can alleviate any concerns and make your experience more enjoyable. Here are some ideas I would suggest thinking of:

1) Arrival Time: you need to discuss the time to start the photoshoot. Punctuality is crucial to make the most of natural light and ensure your baby is in a good mood.

2) Duration: Please plan for a session that may take several hours. These photoshoots tend to be longer because a photographer work around your baby's feeding and sleeping schedule. This is why I would suggest to choose the package of at least up to 2-3 hours.

3) Natural Light: photographer will primarily use natural light to create soft and beautiful images. This might involve positioning your baby near windows to take advantage of the light. If the room is well lit there will be no need to stand by the window all the time.

4) Wardrobe: I suggest choosing two or three outfits one day in advance. Scatter the clothes on the bed or on any surface and decide what to wear. You can ask your photographer to help you with your decision. Send some photos of the clothes a day before. You can change the outfits every hour of a photoshoot to make the best of it. Different colors convey different moods and emotions.

5) Interactions: I encourage my clients to interact naturally with their baby. Play, cuddle, feed, change a diaper, give a bath and enjoy these moments just as you normally would. It might time some time before you get used to me being around with a camera and I don't interfere much.

6) Breaks: We'll incorporate breaks as needed to attend to your baby's needs, whether it's feeding, changing, or simply comforting. No need to rush. This is the beauty of a home photoshoot.

7) Patience is Key: Newborns can be unpredictable, so patience is crucial. Some shots may require multiple attempts, which is perfectly normal. Don't expect much from your baby. Enjoy and live in the moment. This is your day and the only difference is that you will get beautiful photos about your real life.

8) Turn off your mobile phone and be present: I really encourage parents to forget about their work, social media and mobile phone for these hours of a photoshoot. It's time to be present and feel.

To finish this section I would just suggest to make a plan beforehand and trust your photographer. Your mission is to enjoy your life with your baby.

You can incorporate various activities during your newborn photoshoot to capture sincere and real moments. It might be difficult to improvise or even live your life in front of the camera. This is why it's better to plan ahead. Here are some ideas I can share:

1) Cuddle and snuggle your baby as much as you want

2) Talk to your baby: your face expressions will tell a lot!

3) Smile: enjoy those precious moments. Show your love.

4) Feed your baby: Whether it's breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, capturing these intimate moments can be very touching.

5) Change diaper: This everyday activity often results in adorable expressions and connections between you and your baby.

6) Sleeping time: if you baby falls asleep it will be perfect to capture those adorable expressions.

7) Sibling in the frame: let your older kids interact with your new baby.

8) Photos on the bed: Include the whole family in a group shot, lying on the bed or couch, cuddling with the baby.

9) Interior details: let your photographer capture details of your rooms. These details will remind you later of how much love you gave to your house.

10) Bath Time: If you're comfortable with it, a gentle bath can create charming and memorable images. But it's up to you!

11) Wraps and Blankets: Play with different swaddles, blankets, and wraps to create adorable and cozy scenes. Choose your favourite ones!

12) Natural Light Portraits: Use a window with soft natural light to take portraits of your baby's features, such as their tiny hands and feet.

13) Pets Included: If you have pets, include them in the photoshoot.

14) Morning Routine: Document the morning routine, from waking up together to that moment you planned with a photographer.

15) Quiet Moments: Sometimes, the most striking photos are taken during the quiet and tender moments when you're simply gazing at your baby.

When planning outfits for a newborn photoshoot, it's essential to choose clothing that is comfortable. Here are some outfit ideas for a newborn photoshoot:

1) Choose Neutral Tones: Wear neutral-colored clothing in soft tones like white, cream, beige, gray, or pastels. These colors won't distract from the baby and create a timeless look. I love also darker color pallet but when it's plain and not too bright.

2) Solid Colors: Solid, coordinating colors create a harmonious look. Avoid clothing with busy patterns or logos, as they can be distracting. The focus should be on you and not on the logos.

3) Textures and Layers: Incorporate textures like lace, knitwear, or lightweight fabrics to add depth and interest to your outfits.

4) Comfortable Attire: Choose clothing that you feel comfortable in, as it will help you relax and enjoy the photoshoot.

5) Mix and match colors: don't choose one color for everyone. Choose, for example, beige, grey and blue. Or navy, grey and brown. Experiment. It will bring life in your photos and won't look boring.

Are you already excited for an upcoming photoshoot? I hope you do!

The last thing I want to cover here is a pre-session checklist for an in-door newborn photoshoot:

1) Confirm the Date and Time: Double-check the date and time of the photosession with your photographer.

2) Clean and Tidy Your Home: Declutter and tidy up the areas you plan to use for the shoot.

3) Select Locations: Choose the rooms or areas in your home that you want to use for the photoshoot.

4) Decor and Props: Arrange any props or decorations you want to include in the photos, such as baby blankets or meaningful items.

5) Wardrobe Preparation: Select and lay out the outfits you and your family will wear.

6) Baby's Essentials: Have baby essentials like diapers, wipes, and a change of clothes on hand.

7) Natural Light: Ensure curtains and blinds are clean and functional for controlling natural light.

8) Snacks and Refreshments: Prepare light snacks and refreshments for you and your family. Take breaks and stay energized and hydrated.

9) Clear Communication: communicate any specific requests, preferences, or concerns with your photographer. The photographer cannot read your thoughts:)

10) Relax and Enjoy: A relaxed and happy atmosphere often results in the best photos.

By following this checklist, you'll be well-prepared for your indoor photosession and can ensure a smooth and enjoyable photography experience.

A Guide to the Perfect Newborn Photoshoot in Dubai

Newborn Photography in Dubai

Why to have a newborn photoshoot

Lifestyle newborn photography – what is it?

Newborn mother. Fears and how to overcome them

How to plan your newborn photoshoot?

What to expect on a photoshoot day

Things to do during a newborn photo session

WHAT TO WEAR FOR A NEWBORN PHOTOSHOOT

Pre-session check list for indoors Newborn photo session