How to prepare for a Newborn session

Do I need to bring any props?

Nope! I supply all the props and accessories for babies shoot, I hand make most of my props, and may have made some nice color coordinating ones just for you and baby.
However, if there is a special item you would like used in your images, feel free to bring that along! I just ask you let me know what you are bringing so I  am prepared for any type of setup that might require.

What should we wear?

• Neutral colors are great for newborn sessions.
• I recommend Whites, creams, tans, Blacks and grays.
• Please stick to solid colors and subtle textures.
• Avoid busy patterns and designs and logos on shirts.
• Most parent shots are taken from the waist up.
• I am more than happy to help you pick out outfits for your session!
• I recommend removing any watches from wrists,  and phones and wallets from pockets during photos.

My baby has been circumcised, Do I need to wait for photos?

Newborn session should take place 5 days or more after a circumcision to allow baby to heal and avoid any discomfort for baby.

My baby still has her umbilical cord, is that ok?

Of course! Most babies still have their cord stump when they come in for their photos!

How to prepare baby for a smooth shoot:

1. Try to keep baby awake for 2 hours before your session, if possible. This will help insure a sleepy, content baby during your session. (If baby falls asleep in the car that is ok!)
2. Feed baby well just before leaving, This way baby will be sleepy, have a nice full tummy and be lulled to sleep from the car ride to the studio.
3. Please dress baby in a button or zipper pajama for the car ride (nothing that has to be pulled over babies head to remove) we want to be able to get baby undressed with minimal movement.
4. Babies typically arrive sleeping, so please leave baby in car seat when you come into the studio, I will remove baby from the car seat and start getting them undressed and wrapped for their shoot.
5. We want to keep baby sleeping and content, so the least handing from person to person, the better! :)
6. I highly recommend bringing a binki/pacifier, it is a huge help calming baby during posing!(even if you don't plan on always using one, consider it just for the duration of the shoot)

Sibling Portraits:

If you have older siblings that would like photographed with your newborn, we will do these shots first*.
*Due to the nature of the session I highly recommend your partner or family member take the older siblings home or out for something fun to do while we finish up with the individual newborn shots.

How long does a newborn session last?

Full newborn Sessions typically last between 2 and 3 hours, and I allow up to 4 hrs in case baby isn't cooperating.
This time allows for settling baby, feeding breaks or diaper changes that may be needed, and getting baby into those oh so cute poses!

Newborn mini sessions are up to 1 hour in length.

What do I do while baby is getting photos taken?

Relax! I know how crazy and sleep deprived the first couple weeks welcoming baby can be.
I invite you to sit back and relax in my sitting area (sitting area is in view of seeing baby getting photos taken!) and enjoy some refreshments and snacks while taking a quite moment to yourself or catching up on some tv! (Netflix and Hulu+HBO provided)

What happens next?

About 1-2 weeks after your shoot, I will invite you back to the studio for your viewing and ordering appointment. At this appointment you will see your images for the first time and will place your order. I will guide you in selecting and designing your print products and images.
I ask that all decision makers be present for this appointment, any specials or discounts are valid at the in-person appointment only .

As soon as your products come in, I will notify you and we'll set up a time for me to hand deliver them to your home or office! Clients from out of town can either pick up their order or have it shipped for an additional fee.