When to Get in Touch to Schedule the Session:

• Essentially, the earlier the better. If you know your approximate due date then I ask to just give me a heads up so I can plan accordingly.  Once baby is born and things settle down, please contact me to let me know your sweet baby is here so we can get a spot reserved for them in the studio!

• Sessions typically take place between 6 and 20 days old. The sooner you can let me know baby has arrived, the sooner we can make sure you have some date options to choose from during the 6-20 day age range.  Newborn sessions are preferred around days 8-10.  This typically allows enough time for mom and baby to get settled at home and it's before the two-week mark when newborns tend to be more awake.  However, I know for some this is not ideal for many reasons so no worries if this doesn't work, it is just a guide.  Bring your beautiful baby in no matter how old but just know the older they are the harder it is to get those beautiful sleepy, posed portraits.  

• Sessions are on weekday mornings. Newborn sessions are typically scheduled in the morning. Depending on the day, sessions can start between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. Because my weekends fill up with other types of sessions months in advance, newborn sessions are on weekday mornings unless I happen to have a rare Saturday morning opening or Sunday afternoon open.

On the Day of the Session:

• Stimulate & keep baby awake for an hour or so before the session. This helps make baby extra sleepy for the session & when baby can get in a deeper sleep, it makes posing & going from one set to another easier. 

• Feed baby right before the session. A full belly makes for a happy, sleepy baby. Feel free to come a little early to the studio to feed baby right before, especially if you have a longer car ride.   

• I recommend being able to have your older children leave once their photos are finished. I do family & siblings first. Sessions can last approximately 2 hours which can be a long time for siblings to wait, especially when the studio needs to be somewhat quiet. If able, have Dad drive separate or Grandma meet at the studio to take siblings.

• If you are okay with baby using one, bring a pacifier, even if baby doesn’t seem to take to it. Sucking is a soothing mechanism & can really help with settling baby once I have them in place for photos, even if I have to hold the pacifier for a bit to help.

• The studio will be warm. Baby’s like being warm and having the heat cranked up (no matter the time of year), helps baby stay settled and sleepy. 

• When baby needs a break, we’ll take a break. Don’t stress if baby gets fussy. If baby needs to stop to eat or have their diaper changed, we most definitely will. Most babies need to eat at least once during their session. It’s hard work looking that cute

What to Wear and Prepare for the Session:

• Go simple for family’s wardrobe.  We will discuss this during your consultation.  We will work together on attire and props.  Please send me photo of attire two weeks in advance as this gives me time to prep for the session.  

• Let me know if there is a certain set up or prop you would love me to use.  I encourage my clients to bring at least one newborn outfit or wrap along with any sentimental props they may want to incorporate.  However,  I do have wraps and posing props available.  Feel free to take a look at my website, Facebook or Instagram account & if you see something you want us to try please let me know during your consultation.  

• Avoid neon colors. Vibrant, neon colors cast onto skin changing the color and tint of your skin.

• For siblings, I recommend a classic, timeless outfit. Try and steer clear of logos and shirts with a lot of graphics. Those can be distracting in photos as the eye immediately goes to the words or picture on the shirt instead of the sweet sibling moment.

• Groomed nails.  Hands are so predominate in photos.  Please make sure mom, dad, and siblings have clean hands and groomed fingernails.  

• I want to help! Once your session is booked we will schedule a free consultation so we can begin designing your session.