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Newborn Session Prep Guide

What to expect…studio session

When to schedule your session:
The best time to schedule your newborn session is during your second or early third trimester. Scheduling these sessions in advance can help assure you a spot on my calendar. If you’re past that time or your little one is already here, not to worry! I typically keep limited space open for new Moms and last minute sessions. I understand how hectic life can get and want to make sure everyone has a chance to document those cute and snuggly first few weeks.

I usually recommend newborns be photographed within their first 14 days. During that time, newborns tend to sleep more and like to curl up in “womb like” poses. After this time, babies tend to like to stretch out more and it’s difficult to get them into certain poses. If you’re scheduling your newborn session after this time – don’t worry! We can still get adorable photos of your little one. Babies change so quickly during those first few months so try to schedule as soon as possible.

Before your Studio Session:
Prior to your session, I ask that you try to keep baby awake and stimulated for the 2 hours prior to your session – including the car ride to your session. I ask that you feed baby immediately before coming to your session or preferably when you arrive at your session. Babies tend to be happier and sleep better with a full belly. Try to dress baby in loose clothing. It is easier to undress baby without disturbing them too much this way. If you have a favorite outfit or toy, etc you’d like to be included in a photo, please discuss with me prior to your session. As shown in my portfolio, I use minimal wraps and props on baby. I lean more towards a minimalist style but sometimes do add a pop of color into the images. If there are any colors you would like to avoid, please discuss with me prior to the session.

Time of session:
Since newborns are usually sleepiest in the morning, I try to schedule sessions early in the morning – before 10am. If this does not work with your schedule – that’s ok! I am flexible and try to accommodate Mom and baby. If you are coming in for a studio session, please arrive no more than 10 minutes prior to your scheduled time.

What to expect in the studio:
During your session, the room will be warmer than you may expect. Since babies tend to snuggle up when they are cozy, you may be warm at your session. Please dress in layers or wear comfortable and loose clothing.

During your session, I will use a diffused studio light. The umbrella is quite large and leaves beautiful soft lighting on baby. I will also have either music or white noise playing during the session. I find that this has a calming effect on baby which helps keep them relaxed. During the session, I try to keep noise to a minimum.

Sessions can last up to 2-3 hours depending on baby. Please take this into account when planning your session.

Baby led posing:
Your session will include some wrapping/posing of baby but I will never push baby into a pose they are not comfortable in. I take cues from baby to see how they are most comfortable and go from there. If baby is fussy, please do not worry. It is important not to stress during your session. Babies can pick up on stress and become more upset. If we need to take a break to calm/feed/change baby – it is absolutely fine and totally normal.

Safety First:
Safety is the most important thing when it comes to photographing your little one. Occasionally, I will ask Mom and/or Dad to act as assistant or spotter. As stated above, I will never force a pose on baby. Your baby’s comfort is my top priority. All wraps and fabrics are washed in free and clear detergent and all props are thoroughly sanitized after each session.

What to expect…in-home lifestyle session

Before your Lifestyle Newborn Session:
For in-home lifestyle newborn sessions, please feed baby right before your session or when I arrive. This helps keep babies happy and content throughout the session. If we need to take breaks during the session – do not worry! This is totally normal and expected. I leave time for lots of diaper changes, feeding breaks, etc. and in fact, I love to photograph these breaks too!

Please keep baby dressed in a simple white or neutral onesie or outfit for the session. Muslin wraps work great too! If you’d like to incorporate any items, like a quilt or family heirloom, please discuss with me prior to your session.

Please open your blinds/curtains prior to my arrival to allow as much light in your rooms as possible. Turn off all artificial lighting in the home. Please be sure your bed is made with a quit or comforter on top. Beds make for super cute family photos! If weather permits, we may be able to incorporate some outside images as well.

If you have any questions or concerns, please let me know prior to our session.

For parents & siblings: Keep it simple! Try to dress neutral and comfortable. Try not to wear outfits with logos/writing on them as these items can take focus off of your baby. Most importantly – don’t stress!

When to Expect Your Images:
I start editing your images right away. Please understand that much of my time is spent culling through and editing your images to make sure you have the absolute best photos of your baby. Images are delivered via online gallery within 14 days after your session. If I complete the images earlier than that, I will send them out as soon as I can. You will receive the number of images agreed upon in your contract. I do not offer RAW images under any circumstances.