On Location Session Guide

So you booked your session!! Let's talk about what you can expect and how to make this a fun experience. I am a wife and mother of 3, when I tell you I get how overwhelming the day of your shoot can be I mean it, but I also know that it does not have to be with a little preparation!

-CLOTHING :When picking out outfits for family photos, lay ALL the pieces out together so you can see how to it all looks and coordinates. Try to stick to a color scheme, with 2-3 main colors and a few neutrals thrown in. Avoid anything with a logo or bold graphic. Layers and accessories help add depth and interest to outfits (think vests, jewelry, hats, tights, cardigans/jackets). Mix up different textures, prints and coordinating colors. For everyone included in the session, wear what makes YOU feel good and suits your style and personality. Make sure clothing is well fitted and comfortable.

Pro tip: Decide all outfits around mom's attire! We moms tend to set the mood so it is important for us to choose an outfit that makes us feel good, look good and confident!

-PREP YOUR KIDS: Before your photo session, it’s a great idea to talk to your kids about what they can expect ahead of time to get them prepared. A lot of kids get nervous around new people or in new settings, so giving them a rundown on how things will go sets them up for success. If they’re nervous or scared, let them bring their favorite lovie or toy to get a special photo with. Make sure you sound excited about the photo session and not stressed or anxious (they’ll pick up on that). Remember that kids will be kids, they may not be willing to sit and smile for their entire session. That is OK, take this opportunity with your kids as a chance to unplug and just have fun!

Pro tip: BRIBERY. You will get no judgement from me if you want to bribe your child with whatever necessary. Just make sure to let me know what that bribe entails so I can also use it!

-EAT: Don't do like a Texas Roadhouse hog wild meal, but definitely eat before your session. Hangry hubby's and kids are not going to cooperate!

-MATERNITY: You should book your maternity session by your second trimester to ensure availability. Sessions are done between 32-36 weeks and can include Dad and siblings. If you are including small siblings I recommend bringing someone to help watch them while we do individual shots.

-LOCATION: Choose a location that suits your style and families interest!

-BEST ADVICE: Mom to mom: have fun and enjoy these moments!

Newborn Session Guide

Tips!

-It helps to keep the baby awake for the majority of the morning before the shoot. We want to spend as much time photographing them as much as possible and less time trying to put them to sleep. Tricks on how to keep him/her awake: give the baby a bath or get them naked, it should wake them right up.

-HOT! I keep the temperature in my studio pretty hot. (Like a toasty 75-80 degrees or so.)

Pushing up the thermostat is guaranteed to make the session flow more smoothly and help them sleep better. We may be sweating, but baby will be nice and warm…and that’s really all that matters!

-A fed baby is a happy baby! Please feed and burp baby right before our session to ensure a happy, sleepy (“milk drunk”) baby. Depending on your travel time to the studio you can feed at home or when you arrive. I’ll also be more than happy to take as many breaks as needed to help him/her re-fuel. Being a baby model is hard work!

-Patience is key! Newborn sessions can last anywhere from 1.5-2 hours, sometimes slightly longer although I do my best to not hog your entire day. It all depends on baby’s mood and willingness to sleep. Unfortunately…this isn’t something we can predict! Stay calm and relaxed, your baby will pick up on any frustration in the room. And if sleep doesn’t happen, that’s okay! Wide-eyed newborn photos are beautiful too.

-Have faith and trust in me! Your baby is in good hands, I promise! I have 15+ years experience in as a photographer with babies and children. Your baby's safety is just as important to me as it is to you.

-There are a few poses I may ask a parent to assist me and be a "spotter". Mom, not to leave you out but you are usually my last choice. Your babies nose knows! This is not meant to hurt your feelings, only to allow me to help the get baby thinking sweet, sleepy thoughts…instead of “where’s my milk?!”

FAQ'S

When should I book my newborn session?

Book as soon as possible! Due dates are booked in advance, to secure a session you should at least book by your third trimester.

What do I need to do before my session?

You will need to pay your $100 deposit. I will send you a booking form and questionnaire to be filled out. This allows us to work out all the details prior to the session date. Sessions are NOT booked until I have received the booking form and deposit.

When/ Where will my newborn session take place?

Sessions take place in STUDIO ONLY and last approximately 2 hours allowing plenty of time for feeding and changing of sets/poses. All newborn sessions are scheduled on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays at 10 am unless otherwise discussed. Newborns are best photographed within the first 2 weeks of birth. Timing is important because it is during this time they are sleepier, flexible and enjoy being wrapped up all cozy! Babies actual due dates are unpredictable, I ask that you contact me within 48 hours or birth to schedule your session.

What is included in my newborn session?

Session includes 2-3 prop setups, 1-2 backdrop options for beanbag, and a variety of poses. All babies are different, some sleep better than others and some prefer certain poses over others. There is no guarantee on the number of poses or particular poses.

Do I need to bring props or outfits?

I provide everything! I have an array of fabric backdrops for the beanbag, wraps, and props. I do welcome any props or sentimental items you want to incorporate. That being said it is really helpful to know what items you will be bringing ahead of your arrival so I can plan for them.

When can I expect to see my gallery?

I do ask that you allow 2 weeks after your session to receive your gallery.