Some Thoughts on Feeding Babies

At many of my newborn photo sessions, the newborn needs to eat once (or more!). So we pause the photos, and I ensure the parents that we’re in no rush. Some moms nurse and some parents grab a bottle. I’d like you to know 2 things:

1. I am placing no judgements. I don’t care if you breastfeed or give your little one a bottle. I don’t mind sitting in the hallway to give you privacy, I don’t mind chatting with you while you nurse, and I don’t mind waiting for a bottle to heat up.

2. I will happily take a few photos of you feeding your newborn (in whatever manner you choose), but I will always ask first, and I’m not upset if you say no. If you say yes, I won’t post those photos anywhere, unless you tell me explicitly that you are comfortable with that. I go with the assumption that you don’t want those shared.

I’m a firm believer that fed is best. In the last 2 years, I have witnessed and also personally experienced the guilt that comes along with feeding your baby. And in fact, if you ever need someone to vent to about those big emotions, feel free to email, DM or text me about it (regardless of whether you’ve hired me for newborn photos). I’m here to listen!

I applaud the mommas who nurse their babies. I applaud the mommas who feed their babies formula. I applaud the mommas who do some combination of both. That was me, and I didn’t always feel applauded. So please know that whatever corner you’re in, I’m cheering you on! Because it’s hard, no matter what you choose. And I want to support you.

In one of our few family outings with a newborn, we visited Simmons Farm for flower picking when Thatcher was just a few weeks old!

When to Book Maternity and Newborn Sessions

Only about 5% of babies are actually born on their due date, so you may be wondering when you should book a newborn session. I’ve had people book sessions when they’re 12 weeks along, and I’ve had people book sessions when their newborn is 3 weeks old. I’ve even had people book sessions for 3 month olds, because they regretted not booking a “newborn” session. Fall is my busy season, so if you’re expecting a little one September through December, I recommend reaching out early, if you can. But in general, I’d say - reach out whenever you think do to so! And if that’s the day you find out you’re pregnant, then great! Or if that’s during a 2am feeding with your 4 week old, then great! I will always try to find a time to get you in, but I do love having some heads-up, if you happen to be a planner.

I recommend scheduling newborn sessions within 4 weeks of your due date. More traditional newborn photographers who utilize elaborate newborn posing would give you a different answer. Fortunately, there’s no wrong age for lifestyle photos! Phew! I will tell you that newborns tend to be the sleepiest in the first 2 weeks. A lot of moms prefer an awake baby, however! (Or maybe just a little more time for them to recover…) At the end of the day, it’s a personal preference. Once you reach out to me, we’ll get a tentative date on the calendar. If your little one arrives early or late, we can reschedule as needed.

When it comes to maternity photos, it’s again…subjective. How pregnant do you want to be in photos? If it’s your first baby, you may not really show until later in the pregnancy. But keep in mind that babies are unpredictable. I wouldn’t recommend scheduling a maternity session too close to your due date. Taking photos in the 7-8 month window would probably be my general guidance, but I’m happy to take photos before or after that as well!

Hello There, 2022

As we walk into 2022 with a mix of big feelings, I just want to remind you all that the health and safety of your family is very important to me. I am vaccinated, boosted, and more than happy to wear a mask to your photo session. If I think I might be sick, I’ll let you know so we can reschedule. If you’re feeling sick, I simply ask that you do the same!

Things have been quiet around our house, spending most days cuddling at home and going for walks in the neighborhood. So here’s a snuggly shot of my almost-one-and-a-half-year-old right before his nap. May your snuggles be just as sweet!