How to Prepare for an Outdoor Newborn Photography Session in Minnesota
Capturing the first few days of your newborn’s life is such a gift! Although the majority of my newborn photography sessions take place in my beautiful Minneapolis studio, it is possible to have your newborn session outdoors when the weather is right. As every Minnesotan knows, our weather can change drastically almost over night! The following provides some tips for planning a newborn photo session outdoors even in the changeable weather of Minnesota. Preparing for an outdoor newborn photography session simply requires some thoughtful planning so that your session is comfortable for you and baby!
Choose the Right Location and Time
Peaceful and Relaxing Outdoor Locations: Whenever I do an outdoor session, I try to select a place that is the right fit for the family. Some families like the ruggedness of a hiking trail through the prairie, while others want the serenity of a park. I have curated many spots throughout the Twin Cities that are both beautiful and allow for a peaceful session with some privacy. Check out my Best Places for Family Photos in the Twin Cities for some inspiration.
Accessibility: Easy parking and access to restrooms are two essential things to to think about when you have a newborn. Hiking to a distant spot is not ideal after just giving birth! So, we will make sure to choose a location which is close to parking and has some amenities like a restroom with your comfort in mind!
Time of Day: Early morning or late evening offers the best natural lighting - especially in the summer when weather gets hot! We also want to avoid midday the sun is at its peak which can create harsh shadows.
How to Dress Baby for Outdoor Newborn Photos in Minnesota
Mynewborn wardrobe for women and children is available for both my indoor and outdoor session clients. Dressing baby for outdoors is a bit different than in a controlled, indoor environment and takes a bit more thought.
Layers are Key: We will dress baby in layers and/or swaddle them with an outfit underneath. This allows for easy adjustments if temperatures fluctuate. We will also opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics to insure baby is comfortable and safe. Having received the Master Newborn Photographer designation from the National Association of Portrait and Child Photographers (NAPCP), I am certified in baby safety. As a result, I am always observing how baby is feeling during their session. We want to make sure baby’s temperature is stable the entire time, neither too hot nor too cold. Light layers all us to do just that!
Neutral Colors: Styling your entire family is a part of all of my sessions. When we are outdoors, we want our clothing to compliment our surroundings and not compete with it while insuring outfits are timeless! I recommend dressing your baby in soft, neutral colors that complement the natural surroundings. Pastels and earth tones often photograph beautifully during summertime in Minnesota.
Accessories: I will also provide a few simple accessories, such as bonnets, hats, or headbands to add some special touches to baby’s outfit! Feel free to bring something that has meaning to you as well like a blanket someone made you! I will also bring along vintage quilts and a small bassinet so that you have a comfortable place to cuddle up as a family and to make images of baby alone extra special.
What About Minnesota Weather?
Communication is Key: Minnesota weather can be unpredictable. I always keep an eye on the forecast leading up to your session. If it looks like rain or extreme temperatures, we will communicate the day before and the day of your session in order to discuss alternative plans and re-scheduling if necessary.
Sunshine and Bugs!: Protecting your newborn is key when outdoors. I never place babies in strong, direct sunlight as this is dangerous for baby’s delicate and sensitive skin. I opt for open shade areas and also, as discussed above, having your session in the early morning or golden hour evening. We will also try to avoid mosquitoes as much as possible. Thus, choosing a location that allows for that is key!
What Should I Bring to My Outdoor Newborn Photo Session?
Diaper Bag: Ensure you have a well-stocked diaper bag that includes diapers, wipes, an extra outfit, and a blanket. Being prepared for any situation will help keep the stress at bay.
Comfort Items: If your baby has a favorite plush toy or blanket, bring it along for comfort. It can also serve as a lovely prop in the photographs.
Snacks for You and Feeding for Baby: Plan for feeding during the session if needed. We will always take breaks when baby is hungry! Some moms love to have nursing images as a part of their session. If that isn’t for you, we will simply take a break and I will give you privacy to do so. Bring snacks for you too! You are still healing and recovering from birth. Keeping water close by and eating some light snacks is important.
Can Siblings and Pets Be a Part of My Newborn Photos?
Your newborn session is about preserving memories of your entire family in this moment in time when a new baby enters your lives. Including siblings or pets is key in creating the most authentic images and the most memorable Prepare older children by discussing what to expect during the session. My Newborn Session Prep Guide provides you with lots of tips and tricks for making your session day enjoyable for everyone in your family!
Some Helpful Advice for a Successful Outdoor Newborn Session
Babies rule the show! As a result, being flexible is key: Be prepared for potential breaks during the session. Newborns can be unpredictable. Just as in the studio, we will allow time for feeding, diaper changes, or soothing and maybe preserve some of those memories along the way! Most of all, I want you to be able to feel calm throughout your entire session. I will guide you through every moment. Some tears and breaks for fussiness are a part of every newborn session whether indoors or out!
