What to expect during a newborn session and some bonus information.

Having a baby?

When you think about people that have had babies, what is the first thing that comes to mind? For me, I think of how little those babies are and how that little-ness doesn't last very long. That is why I think having your baby photographed while in their newborn stage is very important. The changes are quick, almost done in the blink of an eye, and because of this I suggest having their newborn session within the first month. The other milestone sessions within their first year of life outside of the womb are at 3 months, 6 months, 9 months, and 1 year old. 

When should you book/schedule your session?

The second you think you want to hire a newborn photographer, you should book it. I have limited sessions because I only book so many to ensure the best for all the mamas that have booked ahead with me. Now, that doesn't mean I won't try to accommodate your newborn, but I'm just letting you know to get on the books as fast as possible. Even if you're thinking, "I'm only in my second trimester?" Book it! It not only pays to book ahead, but it really helps ease your mind because you'll be a for sure for the date needed. 

What should you and baby wear to the newborn session?

If you're planning on being in the photos, discuss wardrobe options with your photographer. The colors of your newborn session can be selected by yourself or me - just be sure to say what colors you don't want. I can also be sure to have your baby in a color coordinating wrap for family and sibling shots should you want those. Also, know that I try to keep the studio warm. If it's too chilly, babies get cold. I have heaters and a heating pad to keep baby comfy. I also provide all of the wraps and props for baby so there is no need to bring your own. Plus, I specifically buy these items for the purpose of newborn photography so you don't have to. Have a certain color in mind? I'll check my stash to see if I have it but if I don't I might be able to add it to my collection.

How long will the session last?

This part is tricky. Some sessions are a bit faster because baby is totally fine with all of the wrapping and unwrapping, while other babies are not wanting to be handled very much. It's very important to read the prep guide due to the tips and tricks listed. The best thing I can say is plan from 2-4 hours.  

What should I bring?

Don't forget your baby! You have full on mom brain and you might just be running on auto-pilot right now. It has happened (only as the parents were walking out of the house) but it's ok because you can only do so much. Please take this time in the studio to relax while letting me handle your baby. Bring a bottle if you bottle feed, bring a few extra diapers and plenty of wipes because babies are known to pee and poop all over due to being swaddled so be prepared, it's normal. Also, bring your favorite snacks or beverage but know that I have a Keurig, water, sparkling water and snacks. 

What goes into a newborn photography session?

For me, it always starts with how I can do a pose safely. If it isn't safe, I won't even attempt it. But with that said, here's a list of things you might want to check for when hiring a newborn photographer. 

• CPR / BLS / ECC training and certification - This is very important and necessary. I'm certified by The American Heart Association. https://cpr.heart.org/en/resources/about-cpr-and-ecc
• Safe posing - Lots of photographers will do "froggy" or "hammock", etc.,  poses without actually knowing how to do them safely. These techniques take skill and patience. Holding their little head properly so that they don't fall over and get hurt is critical. Be sure you know who is holding your precious baby's life in their hands. With that said, I welcome you to interview me at any time. 
• Props - I cannot begin to tell you how many newborn photography props I've purchased but you'll see when you come to the studio.  It's always good to ask for options or send your photographer a picture of what you're wanting. Coordinating with colors/props with the nursery is always fun! Some of my props and wraps are from https://hellolittleprops.com/ and https://www.shootingstarsprops.com.au/?currency=USD. Others are from random vendors, antique stores such as http://www.therustypick.com/ or http://buffalonickelantiques.com/, or even fabric stores such as https://www.joann.com/. The list could go on forever! 

Now that you have a little more insight, let me know what you think. 

Hugs and love, Michelle 

Hey mama! Congrats, you’re pregnant! Now, while you’re trying to plan everything for when your newborn baby arrives, don’t forget about some of the finer details. Paint that nursery, buy those diapers, sleep while you can, and enjoy your pregnancy, but don’t forget to lock in that photographer. Over the last few weeks I’ve received several inquiries for a newborn session and the baby is already here or going to arrive soon. Capturing their littleness while they’re still little is very important, as this phase is only for a short time. Find a photographer that you love and book your session stat! Typically, I’m booked out for months so if you’re giving birth in the next week or have already had your baby, it’s likely that I won’t be able to fit you into my schedule. While I want to photograph every single baby, I cannot possibly do so. BUT, if you would like to book a 3 month or a 6 month session, I would love that! Again, I book out very fast so don’t wait, contact me today!

This handsome fella, Camden, was in for his newborn session. First of all, what an adorable name. Secondly, isn't he just the cutest!? I’m so happy I was able to photograph this handsome little fella. A few months before Camden was born his mom contacted me to book her session. She said she was a cousin of a client of mine and that she loved my work. That always get me in the feels! And, I love referrals! Well, the day came and Camden was born so we scheduled the session. His nursery is a woodland theme with bears so I made sure to carry a little of that in to a few of the sets.

This little man was perfect for his session, and so were his gorgeous parents! Just look at his little fingers and toes. Plus he gave me a smile here and there. I can only hope that Camden and his parents return for more sessions with me in the future.

In no particular order, here are a few images from Camden’s session. He did so well in all of the setups.

This is why I love being a newborn and family photographer! Months ago I received an email from Stephanie that she was pregnant with her second baby. I was so excited for their little family! I met Stephanie and Nick a few years ago before their little boy was born. We had their maternity session in a beautiful pine tree forest on a very cold day while snow covered the ground. At that time, the only baby they had was their dog, Autumn, and of course she was along for the session. Then Aksel, their son, was born and I was honored to take his newborn and milestone photos throughout his first year. Fast forward another year and Aksel came in for his 2 year session. He’s an adorable little ham and I just love him!

This time around, Stephanie and Nick decided to wait until their baby was born to find out the gender. A healthy and happy baby is all they wanted. Well, a few weeks ago I received an email that a baby girl named Genevieve was born. Ahhh, I was over the moon for them! That gorgeous newborn baby came in to the studio and was amazing for her session! She was so calm and cuddly. I could have kept her! She'll be back for her 6 month session and I'll get to cuddle her some more. Yay!!

I cannot thank Stephanie and Nick enough for continuing to come back to me for their photography sessions. I just love watching their little family grow!! 

What to expect during a newborn session and some bonus information.

Having a baby?

When you think about people that have had babies, what is the first thing that comes to mind? For me, I think of how little those babies are and how that little-ness doesn't last very long. That is why I think having your baby photographed while in their newborn stage is very important. The changes are quick, almost done in the blink of an eye, and because of this I suggest having their newborn session within the first 3 weeks. The other milestone sessions within their first year of life outside of the womb are at 3 months, 6 months, 9 months, and 1 year old. 

When should you book/schedule your session?

The second you think you want to hire a newborn photographer, you should book it. I have limited sessions because I hold out for the mamas that have booked ahead with me. Now, that doesn't mean I won't try to accommodate your newborn, but I'm just letting you know to get on the books as fast as possible. Even if you're thinking, "I'm only in my second trimester?" Book it! Bonus if you book a maternity and newborn with me because you'll get a print/product credit. Same goes for booking a maternity and milestone. It not only pays to book ahead, but it really helps ease your mind because you'll be a for sure for the date needed. Once baby is born, contact me ASAP and we'll get you scheduled.

What should you and baby wear to the newborn session?

If you're planning on being in the photos, discuss wardrobe options with your photographer. The colors of your newborn session can be selected by yourself or me - just be sure to say what colors you don't want. I can also be sure to have your baby in a color coordinating wrap for family and sibling shots should you want those. If you're not in the photos, know that I try to keep the studio warm. If it's too chilly, babies get cold. I have heaters and a heating pad to keep baby comfy. I also provide all of the wraps and props for baby so there is no need to bring your own. Everything I have is as clean as can be so no need to worry. Plus, I specifically buy these items for the purpose of newborn photography so you don't have to. Have a certain color in mind? I'll check my stash to see if I have it but if I don't I might be able to add it to my collection.

How long will the session last?

This part is tricky. Some sessions can be super fast because baby is totally fine with all of the wrapping and unwrapping, while other babies are not wanting to be handled very much. The best thing I can say is plan from 1-3 hours.  

What should I bring?

Don't forget your baby! You have full on mom brain and you might just be running on auto-pilot right now. It has happened but it's ok because you can only do so much. Please take this time in the studio to relax while letting me handle your babe! Bring a bottle if you bottle feed, bring a few extra diapers and plenty of wipes (babies are known to pee and poop all over so be prepared, it's normal), bring your favorite snacks or beverage, and you might want to bring a pacifier if your baby uses one.

What goes into a newborn photography session?

For me, it always starts with how I can do a pose safely. If it isn't safe, I won't even attempt it. But with that said, here's a list of things you might want to check for when hiring a newborn photographer. 

• CPR / BLS / ECC training and certification - This is very important and necessary. I'm certified by The American Heart Association. https://cpr.heart.org/en/resources/about-cpr-and-ecc
• Safe posing - Lots of photographers will do "froggy" or "hammock", etc.,  poses without actually knowing how to do them safely. These techniques take skill and patience. Holding their little head properly so that they don't fall over and get hurt is critical. Be sure you know who is holding your precious baby's life in their hands. With that said, I welcome you to interview me at any time. 
• Props - Holy moly, there are lots of props out there! I cannot begin to tell you how many newborn photography props I've purchased in the past 6 months. Why? I needed a refresh so I went all out and have several new baby beds, cradles, backdrop blankets, fancy and basic baby wraps, outfits, baskets, bonnets, hats, headbands, etc. I have so many new baby items that I've taken over my 3 season porch trying to organize all of it. The moral of the story here is that every photographer has props but some might have a lot like me or some might have a little. It's always good to ask for options or send your photographer a picture of what you're wanting. Coordinating with colors/props with the nursery is always fun! Some of my props and wraps are from https://hellolittleprops.com/ and https://www.shootingstarsprops.com.au/?currency=USD. Others are from random vendors, antique stores such as http://www.therustypick.com/ or http://buffalonickelantiques.com/, or even fabric stores such as https://www.joann.com/. The list could go on forever! 

Now that you have a little more insight, let me know what you think. 

Hugs and love, Michelle