5 tips for a family portrait session with newborns

5 Tips for a family portrait session with newborns

When you are traveling with the newest edition to your family for the first time there is so much to think about! What shall we pack? How will she do on the plane? However, it is also a great opportunity to have wonderful family portraits taken Cayman’s beautiful beaches. Here are our 5 tips for a family portrait session with newborns:

1. Schedule your session around the baby!

When scheduling your portrait session with your photographer, take the baby’s nap and feeding time into account. A hungry and tired baby will probably not be very cooperative and smiley. Also keep the time difference between your home and your destination in mind as it can affect the babies nap and feeding time.

It is  also good to schedule the session in the middle of your trip to give everyone a chance to settle in while still having time to reschedule, if necessary.

Your photographer will work with you and find the perfect time.

2. Play it Safe!

It’s hot and sunny in the Cayman Islands! While your photographer will look for some shaded areas and will avoid scheduling your session in the midday sun,  we recommend to put some sunscreen on the little one (6months and older), if possible. For the younger ones, bring a cute hat. It can always be taken off for a quick photo.

3. Bring a toy!

Bring one of baby’s favourite toys with you to the session. A noisy toy is a great toy to bring to grab the baby’s attention. Baby’s are fascinated with the water usually in order to grab their attention something that makes a noise would be great. As a photographer, I have balanced many toys on my camera to grab the little ones attention. Works great for adults too!

4. Bring a Blanket!

Most of our portrait sessions take place on the beach. Many babies are not used to the sand and don’t like it. Some just want to eat it (it goes straight through them). Bringing a blanket (neutral) will allow us to get a photo of the little one on her own sitting up or lying down, depending on the age.

5. Go with the Flow & make it Fun!

Posing little ones of any age can be tricky and mostly the unposed images are the ones you will love the most. So while your photographer will aim to get a few posed group photos, don’t be shy to give your baby a twirly and tickle him for those adorable belly laughs. Your photographer will capture those moments and created memories you will cherish forever.