When do we schedule a newborn session? 

 

I typically advise parents to schedule as soon as they feel comfortable after birth. Truly, the ‘newer’ the baby, the better the session typically goes.  The younger baby is typically the sleepier they are, the more cooperative for pictures.  Sometimes after a few weeks baby acne sets in, scratches appear, etc… so I really try and encourage in-home sessions as close to birth as possible/comfortable for families.  Ideally within the first two weeks after birth, but the sooner the better 

 

What time of day should I book my session?

 

The best time for in-home sessions are during daylight hours, usually in the morning (starting your session between 9am - 1pm usually gives the best light and happiest baby!). I realize sometimes with big siblings/family members this time frame is not always possible, but I will do my best to work with whatever time works for your family and baby.

 

Where will we shoot in my house?

 

I prefer natural light from windows and I try to capture your new baby and family in the brightest rooms in your house!!  We will be embracing your home’s natural light by opening up the blinds and curtains and turning off the overhead lights. Its imperative to take advantage of the natural brightness as much as possible (another reason why I like doing these sessions during the bright part of the day).  I’ll position you guys next to windows as much as possible for those pics — we will take full advantage of the light coming into your house, as you can see in the picture to the right.  Even on the cloudiest (and even rainiest too!) days, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with how much the outside light comes in to give you the best possible pictures!

If the natural light is not sufficient enough (trust me I get it, some houses are dark - my own house included!) I will use my flash at a very low power to bounce off of the ceiling to add just enough light to illuminate you all in your space. 

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How should I prepare my newborn?

 

Try to feed the baby shortly before your session time.  This ensures the baby has a full belly and will hopefully be happy and cooperative for pics!  If you would like any feeding/nursing pictures, we absolutely can do this at the beginning of the session…so hold off feeding the baby until I get there and we’ll get some feeding/nursing pics done first!

 

How should I prepare my house?

 

Turn up that heat! Or for summer sessions, just turn off the A/C.  I’ve found that babies are so much happier in a warm environment.  This allows for babies to be comfortable with any naked/diaper pictures and isn’t so upset to have their clothes changed if the house is extra warm. Also, try to declutter the rooms with the best natural light. 

 

What to wear?  

 

This is totally up to you!  I tell moms to pick their outfit first and build others outfits around that.  I do encourage moms to wear something comfortable and flowy so as not constricting on their fresh postpartum body.  Having a light sweater or cardigan to go over your outfit works well too for pictures.  

 

 

Outfit changes and props…

 

Since this is a lifestyle, very heavy on the candid and documentary nature of a session, I leave any ‘props’ that you’d want to include up to your discretion! You can absolutely round up your own items to incorporate into photos, such as your own swaddles, hats, basket, headbands, outfits, etc   for the baby.  Outfit/blanket changes are absolutely okay and I love when we get a variety of pictures of the baby in different outfits and blankets!

 

Are we posing? What to expect during the shoot…

 

I cannot emphasize enough the lifestyle nature of this session: it is super heavy on the candids and truly just capturing your new life at home with your newest family member!  We will do lots and lots of candid pics to really get some genuine smiles and laughs and all of that with the baby.  

 

How long do newborn sessions last?  

 

Typically between 1-2 hours.  I know how precious that time is those first few weeks after the baby has arrived so I don’t want to overtake that for your family, so I try to be quick and efficient in getting you all of the snaps you want.  Providing me with a list of some shots you’d like to get definitely helps too!  Feel free to send me some shots you like from other newborn lifestyle sessions.

 

When will I get my pics? 

 

I try to have a speedy turnaround time for my clients, usually within a week.  I try to have a sneak peek up on my Facebook and Instagram pages the same day as your session  and then have your full gallery back to you via email within a few days after your session.