Today I wanted to share some of my favorite newborn resources for new parents (or even those that are not so new!).
When we had our first daughter, I felt overwhelmed at all the new information that seemed to accompany bringing home a baby. From breastfeeding to storing milk, car seat safety, sleep schedules…the list goes on and on. Now as a newborn photographer in CT, calming babies is literally my job. So I wanted to share some of the tips I use with newborn babies as well as some of my favorite resources from when I was a first time mom.
1. Soothing your newborn baby
I use the techniques in the book Happiest Baby on the Block by Harvey Karp every single newborn session. I was introduced to this book when my first baby was born and have continued to use them in my work, as well as with my own babies. Harvey Karp talks about the “fourth trimester” and using that understanding to help your baby sleep and adjust better. He goes over the “5 S’s” which are Swaddle, Side, Shush, Swing and Suck. The book itself is a bit long, so either skip the introduction if you’re short on time or simply check out this blog post which describes the 5 S’s.
2. Baby feeding resources
It doesn’t matter if you choose or end up breastfeeding, pumping or formula feeding or doing some combination of all of it. What matters most is that you and your baby are healthy and happy. If you choose to breastfeed or pump, there are a lot of “rules” about breastmilk – how to store it, how long to store it for, when you need to pump, how to get more milk and on and on and on. I found this resource to be absolutely fantastic: https://kellymom.com/
One of my pieces of information I spent looking up constantly was all the storage guidelines: https://kellymom.com/bf/pumpingmoms/milkstorage/milkstorage/
3. Get doula support.
Doulas can help in so much ways and there are different type of care for whatever it is that YOU need. From postpartum support to sleep help to just connecting with someone who understands what you are going through and how to come out on the other side. One of my friends, Mandy, is actually working hard to establish an online Postpartum support system. Check out some of her resources here.
You can also use DONA to help find someone near you! Click here to enter your criteria for a search.
And with that, I’ll share some recent images of those happy sleepy babies 🙂
NEWBORN BABY BOY PHOTOSHOOT INFORMATION
With over 8 years experience working with newborn babies and families, Catherine King photography is one of the best newborn photographers in CT. The newborn photography studio is located in Madison, CT and serves New Haven county, Middlesex county, New London county. Catherine King Photography serves nearby areas including CT, RI, NJ, NY, and MA as well.
In Madison, CT, you’ll be greeted by a warm, cozy space with everything you’ll need. Enjoy a warm cup of coffee (or decaf!) and relax in a comfy chair. Your newborn baby will be in good hands.
Each newborn session is planned and customized with coordinated setups and latest props. The only thing you’ll need to bring is yourselves! The studio is stocked with bonnets, wraps, headbands, and gorgeous layers. Forgot diapers or wipes? No worries, we’ve got those too. you don’t need to bring a thing unless you want to.
Safety and comfort of the baby is always the number one priority. I am up to date with all latest required vaccines and take extreme care to keep the space clean and germ-free. While I will have a workflow planned to guide your baby through a variety of poses with the least amount of disturbance, I will also take cues from the baby when they need a break for an extra snuggle or a feeding.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Want to learn a little more? Check out these newborn photography sessions or view the newborn portfolio page. Ready to pick your package and book your own family session? Fill out this brief contact form.
Are you on social media? Check out the latest sessions on Facebook and Instagram.
