Especially if you are a first-time parent, thinking about a photo session when your baby is so new might be a bit overwhelming. Hopefully I can ease your mind by letting you know what to expect.
We will meet in-person or over the phone or on Zoom ahead of your session. This way we get to know each other a little bit and talk through expectations. Typically a newborn session will happen in the first couple of weeks after birth, and if you are wanting a sleepy baby, 5-10 days old is an ideal age. But since I am not big on doing a lot of posing, we can schedule your session when you feel comfortable. Based on your due date, we’ll pencil in a target date for the photo session, and then you can add me to your contact list so that I am aware of your birth. I like to do my newborn sessions on weekdays in the morning, around 9 or 10 a.m.
Based on what we’ve decided, we’ll take photos in your home or at my home studio.
If we’re using your home, I’ll bring a bean bag and lighting, etc. It can be nice to use your master bedroom for family photos, so I’ll ask you to tidy up the room in advance.
My studio is located in my home, and all precautions for cleanliness and safety are taken. I use a space heater to keep the room at a comfortable temperature for the baby, so you may want to dress in layers, because it can feel hot to everyone else. You’ll bring your baby in zip/snap pajamas, and you and your family can dress in neutrals like white, cream or light grey.
If we are including family in the session, we will usually do family photos first, so that if you have other children, they can be taken home or occupied by another parent while I take individual newborn photos. I will also do photos of mom and dad individually with the baby.
My style yields simple and natural photos of your baby. I usually start with the baby wrapped in a simple off-white or white wrap. I will take some photos half unwrapped as well as just in a white diaper/diaper cover. I’ll try to place baby’s hands and do some natural posing, but I’ve found that babies have their own favorite positions from being in the womb, and I love capturing each one uniquely.
Your photo session may last 1.5 - 2.5 hours. I am not in a hurry, and I expect that we may need to take breaks for feeding, changing, etc. Don’t stress about crying or accidents; I’ve seen it all!
After having your photo session, we’ll meet for a reveal and ordering session 1-2 weeks later, where you’ll see a proof gallery and choose your favorite images and products from digital and heirloom product offerings.. Finally, I will deliver your beautiful keepsakes a couple of weeks later.
