YOU’VE BOOKED WITH ME, NOW WHAT…
WHAT TO EXPECT
After your baby arrives, I ask that my scheduled mamas send me an email letting me know whether the tentative session date still works or if we need to adjust it. Most of my newborn sessions take place when baby is between 5–14 days old. The sooner, the better, since this is when they’re typically the sleepiest and still fresh out of the womb.
When I arrive, I’ll take a few minutes to walk through your home, check out the lighting, and get comfortable in the space. This helps me create a loose plan for the session. My in-home newborn sessions are lifestyle-focused and centered around telling your story. While I’ll offer gentle posing prompts, the majority of the session is about real moments unfolding naturally.
That means diaper changes, feedings, nursing if you’re comfortable, and everything in between. I document it all. We’ll capture a few images of everyone looking at the camera, but for the most part I want you focused on each other. Essentially, we’ll move throughout your home while everyone takes turns holding the baby. There will be cuddles, laughter, and I will absolutely be photographing your baby’s tiny feet, my personal favorite.
If you have other children joining the session, please don’t stress about them following directions or being “picture perfect.” I roll with whatever they bring and keep things fun and engaging. Happy and playful always beats forced smiles. The same goes for your newborn. Please don’t worry about them “cooperating.” They won’t, and that’s exactly what I expect. We’ll follow their lead and create beautiful images because of it.
Sessions typically last around 60 minutes and allow plenty of time for feedings, diaper changes, and breaks as needed.
WHAT TO WEAR
Comfort comes first, always. Simple pieces photograph best. When choosing colors, stick with neutral tones that won’t cast color onto skin, especially since your baby will be snuggled up close most of the time. Whites, creams, and greys are always a safe choice. Choose clothing that feels like you and reflects your personal style.
Try to avoid neon colors, large logos, and busy or distracting prints. These guidelines apply to everyone in the session, including the newest addition. Since sessions take place in your home, barefoot or cozy socks tend to look best. One helpful tip for mamas: choose your outfit first, then build the rest of the family’s looks around it.
If you need ideas on what to wear, check out my Pinterest board highlighting outfits and looks I know photograph beautifully:
Some outfit ideas for mamas include leggings with an oversized sweater, a flowy dress, jeans paired with a flowy top, or stretchy wide-leg pants with a soft button-down. For newborns, a diaper with a loosely wrapped soft swaddle, a neutral onesie, or knit overalls work beautifully.
If you’re interested in more intimate images, such as nursing or skin-to-skin moments, I am completely on board. Just let me know ahead of time what your comfort level is and what you’re hoping to capture during your session.
HOW TO PREP
Please don’t feel the need to deep clean your home for me. You have enough on your plate, and I promise I am not judging in the slightest. I have two little boys of my own, and boyyyyy do I understand how unrealistic that can be, especially right after having a baby. Once we narrow down the spaces we’ll be using, I’ll ask that you declutter those areas as best you can. Most sessions take place in the nursery, bedroom, and living room.
We often use a bed during sessions since it’s a perfect spot for everyone to cozy up together. If you have a white sheet, blanket, or comforter, I recommend making the bed with that. Bedding in unnatural colors can cast a tint onto skin tones in photos, and keeping it neutral helps everything photograph beautifully.
I’m a natural light photographer, so the more light the better. Before I arrive, it’s super helpful if you can open all blinds and curtains to let that light in.
If possible, turn the heat up a bit before the session. Babies are usually much happier when they’re warm, especially during diaper photos (if we do them) and outfit changes. I also suggest feeding your baby shortly before I arrive. Everyone tends to be a little happier on a full tummy.
And last but not least, go into your session knowing that I’m there to capture your family exactly as you are. Your story is yours, and it’s special. There’s no pressure to look a certain way, have your home a certain way, or for your kids to act a certain way. Just be present and enjoy the time set aside for making memories. 🤍
