session details, tips, and answers
Newborn Sessions
Bringing a new baby into the world is one of life’s greatest joys, and capturing those first precious moments through newborn photography is a must. A newborn photoshoot is the perfect way to freeze time and keep those early days forever.
The session is all about connection. The smile on your face while you look at your baby, daddy's hands holding your little newborn... The first days with your baby are so special and I want to capture this beautiful moment for you to cherish forever. This guide will give you some fun and easy tips to make sure your photoshoot goes smoothly and results in beautiful memories.
The Details
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Budget Time To Do Nothing But Enjoy your session!
Choose Between an In-home or Studio session
Schedule your session once baby arrives
Prepare outfits for your family
Choose your package and pay the retainer to secure your due date
easy steps to take leading up to your session
The Initial Process
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By booking your newborn session, I will get your due date on my calender. Since the arrival of the baby is typically unpredictable, we will schedule your session after the baby is born. Please contact me as soon as the baby arrives, so we can schedule your session.
I suggest scheduling when the baby is 7-20 days old, to get those cute, sleepy newborns. But there is never a wrong time to document your baby!
Sessions are typically scheduled in the mornings, when newborns are the least fussy. After your session I will cull and edit your photos. Your gallery is typical ready within 3-4 weeks of your session. You will receive a link to your private gallery, then it's time to enjoy them!
You can change and feed the baby just before the session, so the baby will be sleepy. Please feel free to feed them before I arrive at your home or if you are in studio I have a comfortable waiting area for you to feed the baby. It is okay it your baby takes a little longer to finish their feeding. A well-fed baby is a happy baby!
Depending on how the baby does, the session can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours. We will take our time and never rush! We will take a break when baby wants a break. And remember, when you are relaxed, so is the baby.
Before the Session
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Day of the Session
At your home ⟶
In the Studio ⟶
Photos with siblings are usually taken first because children are unpredictable, and that’s okay. It is best to get sibling and family photos taken first before the child’s patience runs out. Try a mock newborn shoot sometime before the session so that your child is comfortable with holding, hugging, or kissing the baby.
To take your photos, I will play with your children. I will make funny sounds, do ugly dances, play peek-a-boo, and everything in between. I want you to tell your children that you are going away to have fun. I know all children are different. Some are shy, some are very enthusiastic, and some don’t want their photos taken at all. Some children need more time to warm up, while others don’t. You know your children the best, and please let me know before our session if there is anything you feel I need to know about your children.
Feel free to use bribes (a great gift to all mothers). Often, smaller rewards throughout the session work better than a big reward at the end. Like an m&m after a few clicks of the camera, this helps the little ones maintain focus. As I said, you know your children the best and if you feel that a reward after the session can work on them, go for it.
Preparing older siblings
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best for: all seasons
best for: fall winter
best for: spring, summer
best for: ALL SEASONS
Choosing the right outfits can make a big difference:
What to wear
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You can choose to dress your baby in soft, simple clothes that are easy to take off if needed. I also have a large selection of swaddles and wraps for you to choose from if you prefer the wrapped look. Neutral colors and minimal patterns keep the focus on your baby. Stay away from bold colors like orange or hot pink, as they are too harsh for the setting and will not complement baby’s already rosier skin.
To coordinate family outfits: Go for soft, neutral tones that match your baby’s outfit. This creates a cohesive and beautiful look. Neutrals are usually a safe bet. Beige, cream, white and cool grays are great options for all family members. This helps keep the focus on the baby. Feel free to sprinkle in a little color if it fits your style, but soft colors are best!
Moms, I suggest wearing a maxi dress or floor-length gown for a more formal outfit or a light shirt and dark jeans go well for casual wear. However, it is important to wear whatever you feel most comfortable in! Make sure all the shirts are free of logos or writing. Wrinkles show up in photos as well, so please make sure all clothing is ironed or steamed. Dads, I recommend a neutral solid button down or sweater with well fitted khaki or black jeans or chinos.
Comb for baby and/or siblings
Boogie Wipes
Baby Wipes
extra formula (if needed)
simple outfit for baby (if desired)
burp cloth for spit ups
Nursing Essentials
Pacifiers
Extra Diapers
Family Outfits
what to bring or have on hand for your session
checklist
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Of course! I love it when pets join in for family photos! However, safety for the baby is the number one priority for me. I will only position your pet close to the baby given your consent. Keep lots of treats handy!
06. Can we include our pets in our newborn session?
You can choose to wear shoes for your newborn session but a lot of people go barefoot! Socks are okay too, but remember they will be seen, so all white or gray is best! Feel free to accessories with jewelry, but I suggest keeping it very simple and dainty so nothing distracts from your baby!
Do I need to wear shoes and/or accessories?
Yes! In your wedding questionnaire, I’ll ask if there are any must-have or out-of-the-ordinary photos you’d like captured on your big day. Otherwise, you can trust that I’ll document all the essential wedding moments, ensuring a full and beautiful gallery!
04. will there be time to feed my baby before the session?
I have a set of curated props I use for newborn sessions. If you have any props that you would like to use, please let me know prior to the session. However, please note that I generally like to avoid overusing props and instead capture connection-focused shots of parents handholding the baby.
03. Will your include our Personal props in the session?
Pick a room with lots of natural light. The soft light from windows will give your photos a beautiful, gentle glow. Open any blinds and curtains in your home and turn off overhead lights before the session so that I can identify the best spots with natural light.
02. How do I know which rooms we will be photographed in at my home?
Absolutely not. I know you just had a baby and I am not paying attention to the dust bunnies! The only thing I suggest is to clear the clutter in the spaces we will be shooting in. A tidy space ensures your baby is the star of the show, with no distractions in the background. Typically, the master bedroom, living area, and nursery are suggested.
01. Do I need to clean up my home for an in home session?
Have a question? I've got an answer!
FAQs
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