GUIDELINES FOR A SAFE PHOTOSHOOT DURING THE PANDEMIC

Hello Everyone!

How are you all? I hope you’ve all been keeping safe and staying well during these unusual times.

Sooo... as y'all know... spring has arrived, bringing us warmer, beautiful weather whoopee!

As we continue to enjoy the fun-shine and appreciate the number of Covid cases declining/stabilising, more of our clients, both existing and new, have booked in sessions with us for a variety of occasions!

Aside from weddings, birthday, events and family photography, we've been blessed with the growing opportunity to hold more maternity/baby bump sessions outdoors and in-house for our clients recently! Thank you for putting your trust in Jennifer Lam Photography (JLP) and sharing this precious time with us! <3

With the increased interest in these sessions, we were curious and wanted to learn more about newborn/baby photography. And.. like most clients, we were wondering if it's still possible to have a safe photoshoot for newborns during the pandemic? So ... we connected with a fellow professional newborn and baby photographer, Wendy Atkins from Chapter One Photography, to provide us some insight. Better yet, she has also kindly written a blog for us to share with you below! We hope you all find this helpful and an interesting read! :)

GUIDELINES TO MAKE SURE EVERYTHING IS SAFE FOR A PHOTOSHOOT DURING THE PANDEMIC

Given the current global pandemic, it is understandable if clients have concerns about doing a photography session particularly if it involves children. After all, the health of our little ones and our family is the main priority.

Parents, in particular, may completely abandon the idea of getting their newborn a photography session. Protecting their children from the virus and keeping them safe is of course, any parents main priority.

The question that then arises- is it still possible to have a safe photoshoot for newborns during the pandemic? The answer is yes, given that your photographer strictly follows safety guidelines prescribed by the government authorities.

The first step to protecting your child during a photography session is to hire a professional newborn and baby photographer who is trained and has extensive experience in handling infants. Your baby requires a thorough level of care and patience during a photography session, which is why it is important to secure a photographer who holds safety and personal hygiene to the highest of levels. Positioning babies to those cute ‘holding their heads in their hands poses’ requires careful hands as their bodies are so fragile and delicate. An experienced newborn photographer will know exactly how to handle their tiny bodies while also producing the cutest of photos for your keepsake.

GUIDELINES FOR A SAFE PHOTOSHOOT DURING THE PANDEMIC

Pre-shoot communication

At least a day before, call or send an email to clients to know if they are fit and healthy for the session. Complete a self-assessment; if you are not feeling well and showing some symptoms, it is best not to proceed for everybody's protection.

Disinfect and Clean Your Studio

To assure your clients that it is safe to be in your studio and book their session with you ― regularly clean and disinfect all areas of your studio, particularly where you take your session. Frequently touched surfaces such as door handles, light switches, chairs and tables, bathroom facilities should also be cleaned and sanitized regularly since bacteria loves to stick to these surfaces. Use antibacterial solutions, wipes and sprays however be mindful when selecting your cleaning products that they do not contain harmful chemicals for infants.

Before and after your session, make sure to clean and disinfect all items that are used on the baby like headbands, hats, accessories, fabrics, apparel etc. Also, clean toys and other hard props like bowls and baskets, as well as changing tables.

Don’t forget to clean your camera and gear as well; viruses and bacteria can live a few days on hard surfaces. Your equipment can also harvest these nasties which is why it is important to maintain through cleaning before and after each photo shoot.

Proper hygiene

Photographers and their assistants, if they have any, should practice proper hygiene like washing their hands with soap and water, and using alcohol wipes and hand sanitizer to kill any remaining germs which may be lingering. Wear fresh clothes for each of your sessions and ensure that you wash your face with soap as part of your safety precautions.

Wearing of face masks and gloves

Masks are essential items in preventing the spread of the virus. Wear your face mask for the full duration of the photography session. Gloves are optional. Though, it is better to have them available in your studio as some clients may request them when handling their little one.

Practice Physical Distancing

Maintain a safe distance from your clients, including the infants. Avoid handshakes and any physical contact ― clients will not think you’re being impolite when you retain your greeting gestures. Let the parents place the baby in the studio based on your directions. While doing the session, parents can also assist in changing poses or putting on a change of clothes and accessories. Resist the urge to hold the baby; newborn photographers are naturally fond of children. Even if you are used to playing with them or giving them warm cuddles, during the pandemic it is best to try and avoid physical contact as much as reasonably possible.

Limit the number of people allowed in your studio to two. It is best if it’s only the baby and the parents who come inside. Less people means a lower risk of getting infected with the virus.

Consider In-House Session

Clients may feel more comfortable if the session is held in their own homes. In-home sessions can reduce the risk for the clients, especially for their child since they will not have to go outside and expose themselves to the public. If you are prepared to offer an in house session, advise your clients to prepare their home ahead of time.

The pandemic has without a doubt had an adverse effect on the entertainment industry which is why photographers will need to adjust and work carefully with clients. Following all the above guidelines can help in keeping your studio safe and let you continue your business without putting anyone at risk.