Hey mama! What are you doing to get ready for your newborn baby? Has the nesting kicked in yet?

Here are some things that I hear about from new moms, and those that have been a mom for years.

• Don't sweat the small stuff. We all want to be organized and have the cleanest house on the block, while raising amazing children, but that isn't realistic unless you are super woman. If you are, please let me know your tricks so that I can share them. Instead, love your baby and family now because those dishes and cleaning can wait until you have time.
• Ask for help. Women always want to do and don't want help. I get it, sometime it's easier to do it because it will get done right. Well, give yourself some grace and let people help you. Some thrive on helping, that is what they live for.
• Baby proof your house. I know you might be thinking that it's too soon, but once that baby is born you might not have the time or mental capacity to put those locks on cabinets. Get a head start because before you know it baby will be crawling around.
• Make some freezer meals. If you get started on some meals now, you won't have to think about it for a few weeks.
• Remember to take a deep breath and remember that you got this. Your baby needs you, and so does your family. If you're feeling down once that baby gets here, please let your medical provider know. Postpartum depression is real and it is nothing that you've done wrong.

Now that I've shared the most common things that I hear at sessions, look at these beautiful babies that I've photographed. If you didn't know this already, I love my job.

Tiny beds and basket - Luneberry, Hello Little Props

White layer and bonnet - Peach Stitch

Flooring - Intuition Backgrounds, Fancy Fabrics

Felted critters - Aubrey's Felties, Dear my Luna

Michelle

Hi there! Here is a maternity session for ya! Every session is different, every session makes me so happy! This beautiful mama, Bianca, was so happy to be having her second baby. When we were designing her session, she wanted to be sure it wasn't just about her because family is so important. Azul, her first son, didn't want anything to do with the gold leaf, but that's ok because the series of photos are so good.

The first part of the session was at my studio. I have many gowns, dresses, body suits, and fabrics that can be used. This way you focus on the session and your life, rather than having to shop for items you might only wear to this maternity photo shoot.

Then, we went to a gorgeous outdoor location just before sunset. It was the perfect end to the session.

I know that I blogged this after I blogged baby boy's newborn session, but if you want, you can check that session out to see that he looks just like his big bro.

Don't wait to book your session, contact me today. Booking maternity and newborn together is a perfect combination. Plus, we can chat about milestone sessions in the baby's first year.

Michelle

Meet baby Rome here: Rome!

Heyya Minnesota mama! You're pregnant, yay!! Congratulations to you and your family! If you didn't know this already, you're amazing! Having that growing baby inside of you is a huge milestone in your life. Your body is changing every day, your belly is growing as much as that baby is, and before you know it baby will be here. Mama, you should embrace your baby bump and have a professional photography session. Celebrate this beautiful thing your body can do and document it professionally.

Since some mamas don't know when to schedule their maternity session, I thought I would try to help by writing this blog post. In my experience, it's best to have your session between 30-32 weeks. Now, with that said, every mama is different. This time frame is the sweet spot for a few different reasons; you still feel good, your bump is obvious, and you're not at the "I'm over it, I can't wait to have this baby" stage. Don't let me scare you by that last statement, it's literally what I've heard many moms say because they are ready to pop, so to speak.

The session itself can be outdoor or at the studio. We're lucking that Minnesota is a state with distinct seasons; 4 different backdrops throughout the year. One of the best things with having your session with me is that I will freeze or sweat outside with you, because you pick where your session will be. I've had some brave mamas embrace the cold winter with a session outdoors, and I love how beautiful snow is in photos. If you decide to have your session at the studio, I have many beautiful items to use; backdrops, faux flowers, chairs, couches, a bed, dresses, gowns, body suits, boy shorts, crowns, etc. Some of these items can tag along for an outdoor session if you'd like. Oh, almost forgot to mention that I have a pop up tent for changing outside.

Before you contact me to schedule your session, think about having your newborn session with me too! Booking a maternity and newborn session with me ensures you are on my calendar. I only take on so many mamas so that I can ensure I have spots on my calendar. Babies have a way of coming early or late. Plus, bonus is that I gift you a mini album when you book both with me.

Now that you've read about scheduling your maternity session, contact me before I don't have spots left. I book fast so don't wait.

Hugs and Love!

Michelle

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

Having a baby?

What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear that someone is having a baby? For me, I think of how little those babies are and how that little-ness doesn't last very long. 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. Don't wait to book your session, they grow so fast.

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?

Bring a bottle if you bottle feed, bring a few extra diapers and plenty of wipes (babies have been known to pee and poop all over so be prepared, it's normal), and you might want to bring a pacifier if your baby uses one. The studio has plenty of coffee, water, and snacks for you and your family to enjoy.

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. Once you become part of the MKP newborn family, I send a questionnaire that helps coordinate your session.

• 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 - It seems crazy but there is a huge market for newborn photography props. I cannot begin to tell you how many newborn photography props I've purchased in the last year. 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've filled my new studio pretty quick. 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 https://www.luneberry.com/, 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 Minnesota!! I have a new studio in Blooming Prairie Minnesota, in case you haven't seen me write about it before. With the move down to southern Minnesota, house and studio, I've been too busy to focus a lot on putting the final touches together. Conveniently, my studio is just a short drive from Rochester and a bit of a longer drive from Minneapolis or St Paul. No matter where you drive from, you become part of the MKP family. Once you arrive, there will be comfy spots to relax and hot or cold beverages to sip on. Plus, I have lots of delicious snacks.

Since this is a new space for me, I was in need of a newborn baby model to test for any potential changes that might be needed. I'm happy to say there are only a few things I need to do, which is pretty great. Plus, this adorable baby girl, Harmony Oak, was amazing! She slept like a champ and didn't mind most of the posing. Her mama and big brother were there to watch her shine! Since she was at the studio to model, I decided to try out some new items. An adorable Christmas gnome, baby booties, bucket hugger in the Christmas style, whispy greens, headbands, wraps, and more. Red, green, white, and cream. All beautiful on this perfect human. All in all, I'm in love with my space and that Harmony helped me break it in. See the links below for a few of the items I used in this session.

Bucket hugger: Hello Little Props

Cream posing fabric: Fancy Fabrics and Props

Wooden bed: Luneberry

If you would like to learn more about my services and want to become part of the MKP family, please email me at michelle@michellekrohnphotography.com.

Hugs and love!

Michelle