Where is the best place to have newborn photo sessions?

I might be a little biased about this, but I believe the best place to have newborn photo sessions is in your home. Why? First it is very practical, you have everything you need from extra clothes to snacks. Also, what better place to document your newborn’s life then where their memories will be made? Your family will look back on these images and see glimpses of their childhood home. If lighting conditions are not the best, we can explore using a local indoor studio for your newborn photo session.

What if my older children misbehave during our photography session?

The best part about having your newborn photo session in your home, is there is plenty of space and resources for older siblings to take a break. Also, since we will be in your home your children are more likely to feel comfortable with the session experience. Finally, we will be up and moving, reading books, helping with baby, playing, dancing, you just never know what might happen during your session!

What happens if my baby cries for the entire time?

I have never had a baby cry for an entire session, I think this is for a couple of reasons. One, I do my best to talk through scheduling with you prior to our session so that we choose the best time for your children. Also, since we are in your home, you’ve got everything you need to help settle baby from sound machines, extra bottles, outfit changes, and diapers. 

What do you mean by ample natural light need for our newborn photography session?

When you turn off all the lights in your home, it is the areas in your home that receive sunlight streaming through your windows and cast shadows on the floor. Opening up your blinds and window coverings are helpful. If you are unsure, send me some pics with your phone!

How old should my newborn be for our newborn session?

I prefer your newborn to be between 6 weeks to as old as 9 weeks old for newborn photo sessions. There are many reasons I prefer to photograph your newborn after four weeks. Baby acne is likely to be less of a problem. You and your family have had time to adjust to having a new baby in the house. Your body needs time to recover. 

Do you use props for the in home newborn sessions?

I do not use ‘props’ for my photography. You can expect to be holding your baby for the majority of my newborn photo sessions. I do have a Moses basket for families wanting to have the crib-like image if their nursery does not have ample natural light.

Can our pets be part of the session?

Of course, as long as they are photographer friendly, I  love including pets. I have two dogs and chickens!

We do not have a decorated nursery, is that ok?

Yes, there have been many instances when either the family does not have a nursery or the nursery does not provide enough natural light for your images. it’s not that big of a deal. We will spend time in other areas of your home that do receive the best light.

What should I wear for our newborn session?

I will be honest with you, I have preference for what moms should wear for their newborn sessions. I love seeing moms in dresses or long skirts. Why? You just went through a long period of your body changing and evolving. You likely still are not quite feeling yourself. A dress provides movement and does not cling to the ares you might still be sensitive about. However, the most important thing is for you to feel comfortable. If you prefer jeans, that is fine! My biggest tip is to put little extra effort to planning your outfit so you feel good. Avoid overly dark outfits. Lighter colors do well on camera.

Do you offer mini sessions just for newborns?

I do not do newborn mini sessions. There are just too many important details to capture. In the fall I offer family mini sessions and in the spring I offer motherhood mini sessions. 

What is a lifestyle session like?

Recently, a dad who was partaking in one of my sessions said this, “just do what we usually do at home to have fun with the kids, except I have to wear nicer clothes and not my sweatpants.”  Lifestyle photography is about capturing real images of your family. You will be engaging with your children and your spouse. I will only ask you to look at the camera maybe two or three times, otherwise it is about snuggling, playing, dancing, and being with your people.