About Your Newborn Session

Newborn sessions will need to take place within the first 10 days (I prefer days 4-6) and usually last between 3-4 hours. The session fee covers planning and artistic time, both shooting and enhancement and editing of 25 images. Prints and specialty items are available for purchase separately.

Newborns are my favorite to photograph. I adore those tiny details like the fuzz on their ears and shoulders, the milk bubbles on their perfect little lips, their silky hair or soft bald heads. We all know how fast babies change and it’s so important to capture this fleeting stage. With four children of my own, I promise that your new baby is in good hands. I will gently pose your precious child for their newborn portraits, guide you through the process, and work with your family in your home to produce beautiful images that you can cherish for a lifetime.

How do I book a newborn session?
I recommend booking your newborn session well before your due date arrives to ensure my availability. The beginning of your second trimester is a good time just in case baby comes early. Upon booking your session I simply add your due date to my calender and await baby’s arrival. Once baby is born I ask that you call or email me so we can schedule your session date and time.

When is the best time to photograph a newborn?
I prefer to photograph newborns in the first 10 days of life, however I prefer days 4-6. This is when they are still so sleepy and easier to pose. It gives you time to adjust to your new life but still allows plenty of time for the early newborn stage. Also at the two week mark is when newborn acne and colic can begin to appear, along with stretching and more awake time.

Where will my session take place?
For your convenience, I come to you and set up an area for the session in the comfort of your own home. I require a space large enough for my beanbag, light equipment and backdrop, usually a living room or dining room works well. Occasionally we may need to move furniture or other items around to make room. I can bring a large selection of my props and backdrops to make your session unique for your little one. If you have seen props on my website that you want me to use, be sure to list them in that section of the agreement.

What do I need to do to prepare for my session?
First and most importantly, I ask that you please turn up the heat (or in the summer, turn off the a/c). Babies sleep best when the room is nice and toasty and because they will be naked it is best to keep the heat at least 80 degrees or higher. This is usually uncomfortable for us adults but baby’s comfort always comes first.

Due to the frequent breaks needed to feed, change, sooth and get baby to fall asleep, newborn shoots often last longer than the average session. Please be prepared for your shoot to last anywhere between 2 and 4 hours. As always, I allow for plenty of time to cuddle, feed and soothe your newborn if needed.

Strip baby down to a diaper (and blankets) before feeding. Feed baby right before or right as I arrive, so when they go into the “milk coma”, I’m set up and ready.  I photograph babies in their birthday suits only.  Newborn babies just don’t fill out clothes properly.  They are so much sweeter without all that bulky fabric.  I would be happy to schedule another session at a later time to photograph your baby in any special outfits, especially christening / blessing outfits.

I will bring plenty of props for your session but if you have anything special you would like included please let me know, I would love to incorporate it into your photos as long as it will be pleasing to the eye!

Be ready for PEE! I don’t need to tell you that newborns pee a lot. Unfortunately, I may get peed on and maybe pooped on too.  Please don’t feel bad about this, it is inevitable and doesn’t bother me. Have some towels or extra blankets on hand and I will wipe it up and continue with baby.

I highly recommend having your photo taken with your new baby. I know that after giving birth you typically do not feel like being photographed but please believe me when I say that you will be happy you did! Any family members who will be in the baby portraits should be simply dressed; solid neutral color tops or tank tops/camis for mom are a good option.

Please try not to have any visitors during the time of our session. The fewer distractions the smoother things will go. I know Grandma would love to watch but generally we end up talking a lot and that will slow down the session.  Also I do not allow other cameras to be used while I’m working, this includes cell phone cameras.

And lastly, but most important, relax! Babies sometimes cry and fuss, this is normal. I am here to provide you will beautiful quality images of your newborn baby and your family and safety is my top priority.  If baby is cranky and not cooperating please do not worry, I will soothe and calm your baby until he is back to sleep.  Baby will let us know when it’s time for another feeding.  Take this time to sit back and relax as I care for your newborn. The soothing sounds are very relaxing and many parents even use this time to take advantage of a much needed nap!  I want you to feel confident in your decision to hire me as your trusted newborn photographer.