Being a parent to an infant is both very challenging (emotionally and physically) and such a sweet time! You can’t wait for the day you get to sleep without being woken from deep sleep, yet you know that your baby won’t stay this small and cuddly forever. You’re so excited to watch your baby grow and learn, but never want your baby to change. How lucky are we that in this generation we have so much access to our precious memories (photos) and a wealth of information on the science of baby sleep!

My name is Sam Cross. I am a wife, a mama, a Registered Nurse, and The Mama Coach (Sleep Coach & Lactation Counselor). I am nerdy when it comes to the science of baby sleep and practical tips. My desire is to be a resource of education to help you enjoy your family more everyday and especially on the days you have a photography appointment!

A non-rested baby and parent can make for a pretty hectic session day- you won’t feel your best and your baby may be more irritable with a shortened amount of time willing to let Coley do her magic.

Coley K Photography and I have some of the same goals: to give her clients the best setup possible (including getting good sleep as a family) for an enjoyable experience with beautiful lasting memories!

I’d like to share a few tips with you to help:

• Set yourself for success, don’t schedule an appointment for when your baby usually naps. Try to schedule the appointment for just after naptime to give your baby the most time between naps for photos
• If you have a newborn, avoid late afternoon appointments as many newborn babies like to cluster feed during this time and your baby may not be content taking pictures and not eating.
• Ensure your baby’s sleep space is completely dark during night time. A baby in the REM stage of sleep is very easy to wake even with a little bit of morning light.
• Use a white noise machine to drown out outstanding sounds. The noise level should be between 50-60 decibels, which can be measured using apps on your phone. This can also help prevent early morning wake ups in that light REM sleep, when someone is getting ready for work or the dog is barking.

The more well rested your baby is the more rest you can get which enables you to enjoy your day more, especially on picture day when you’re already running around the house looking for the one missing item you really want in pictures- the bow, the book, special blanket, both shoes, whatever it is!

I love helping parents enjoy their family more through evidence-based education, empathy, and support customized to your family’s needs and goals on sleep, feeding (breast, bottle, & starting solids), choking, and CPR. 

Check here for my upcoming workshops, including free workshops & giveaways! 

Curious about my 1-on-1 education and support? Book a free discovery call here.

Hope to connect with you soon! 

Sam Cross, RN, The Mama Coach

PS. If you forget the bow, it will be okay. Just remember to pack the baby!