Pregnancy is an exciting time filled with anticipation and preparation. As you count down the days until you meet your little one, getting organised can help ease the transition and ensure you're ready for the big day and beyond. Here’s a comprehensive checklist for expectant parents, highlighting the importance of booking essential services like a newborn photographer well in advance.
First Trimester: Setting the Foundation
Confirm Pregnancy and Start Prenatal Care: Begin your journey by confirming your pregnancy with a healthcare provider and scheduling your first prenatal visit. Regular check-ups are crucial for monitoring your health and the baby’s development.
Calculate Your Due Date: Knowing your estimated due date will help you plan and prioritise your tasks effectively.
Start a Pregnancy Journal: Documenting your pregnancy can be a wonderful way to reflect on your journey and share these moments with your child in the future.
Research and Book a Newborn Photographer: The early days with your newborn are fleeting. To capture these precious moments, start researching newborn photographers in your area. Booking someone like me in advance is crucial as spots fill up quickly. I specialise in capturing the delicate beauty of newborns, providing timeless images that you'll treasure forever. The best time for newborn photos is when your baby is 1-2 weeks old - it's a very small window of opportunity - so be sure not to miss it!
Be sure to book a baby photographer while you're still pregnant. Locking in with your preferred photographer is the best way to ensure your baby has a spot when they arrive. © Amy Tong Photography
Second Trimester: Getting into the Details
Plan Your Maternity Leave: Discuss your options with your employer and understand your rights and benefits concerning maternity leave.
Begin Preparing the Nursery: Choose a theme and start purchasing the essentials like a crib, changing table, and comfortable chair for feeding and soothing.
Attend Parenting Classes: Whether it’s your first child or not, parenting classes can be incredibly beneficial in preparing you for childbirth, breastfeeding, and newborn care.
Start Your Baby Registry: List items you’ll need and share your registry with friends and family before your baby shower.
Third Trimester: Final Preparations
Pack Your Hospital Bag: Prepare for your hospital stay by packing essentials like clothes for you and the baby, toiletries, snacks, a birth plan, and any required documents.
Install a Car Seat: Make sure you have a properly installed car seat to bring your baby home safely from the hospital.
Prepare Meals: Cook and freeze meals in advance to alleviate the stress of cooking during the first few weeks with your newborn.
Confirm Details with Your Newborn Photographer: Touch base with your photographer to confirm the session date based on your due date. If you have any updated information (for example a planned c-section etc), be sure to let your photographer know so that they can plan their schedule accordingly.
Relax and Take Care of Yourself: In the final weeks, focus on self-care. Rest as much as possible and spend quality time with your partner and family.
By following this checklist, you’ll be well-prepared to welcome your new baby into a safe, organised, and loving environment. Remember, organising services like newborn photography with me in advance ensures that you capture the beauty of your newborn's first moments professionally and stress-free. Welcome to the magical journey of parenthood!