The weeks or days prior to session: choose your outfit(s).

This one probably takes the most time to plan prior to the session. For those who want it, there are several options at the studio for new moms (maternity dresses that double as postpartum flattering designs as well as a few non-maternity dresses) and little girls from size 1 up to size 14 girls. For men and boys, simple sweaters, button-downs or long sleeved or v-neck T’s are timeless and always look fantastic. When all else fails: everyone in white/cream, or any neutral tones; or gray is a great option for practically all ages and skin tones. For some tips and resources for clothing ideas, you can check out my Client Style Guide {here}. And as always, {email me} with questions or for guidance!

Day before:
Rest!

The day before your session, try to relax as much as you can. Don’t plan a busy day of outings or shopping or cleaning, etc. Take it easy, take naps, eat well, and hydrate. It will help you feel and look your best! Although, let’s be real, that baby will probably keep you up all night and in that case, Photoshop and simple retouching is our friend…. and there’s a couch you can nap on if you want!

Day of: what to do and expect.

-On the morning of your shoot, try to stay stress-free. You’ll probably forget something. You’ll probably be 15-30 minutes late. It’s ok, I am human and I am a mom. While I do hope you respect my time, I also know what it’s like to try and get out of the door with a newborn (or just kids in general). Stay in touch and breathe.

-Bathe your baby and wash their hair the morning of your session; this helps to keep them sleepy during their photos. Don’t forget to moisturize their little bodies for smooth and supple skin.

-Plan to feed baby right before you leave for your session. If you are 30+ minutes away, then let me know and you can feed baby once you arrive - or, if you simply prefer to feed once you get to the studio. A full tummy makes for a happy and sleepy baby. Please let feeding schedules go for this one day to help your session run smoothly. Also, plan for extra feedings, and be sure any toddlers or older siblings have eaten well and please *do not* give or offer snacks to siblings of newborns during the photo shoot. Before is great, during causes a lot of issues and could disrupt the flow of your session.

-You don’t need to bring anything for baby to wear. Once you arrive, we’ll change the diaper and get baby into an outfit that you choose from the studio’s collection when you arrive before feeding him/her so we get a sleepy and content little one.

-EXTRA IMPORTANT: You’ll want to bring along a pacifier. I understand some parents prefer not to use them and fully respect that decision, however, they are SO important to help soothe baby (if necessary) when attempting poses that require them to be completely still in order to pull of the shot. This could make or break your session.

-Be mindful of your nails and jewelry that will show. Apple watches make for distracting reflections in photos sometimes, for example. Moisturize hands and nails and remove any chipped or old nail polish. Your hands will be in the family photos because someone has to hold baby :)

-We’ll follow baby’s lead but I try to start with family photos, then sibling photos if applicable, and then concentrate on baby. If baby arrives sleepy and will do best with unwrapped/table poses first then that is the best direction to go. I remain mindful of naps for siblings and attention spans, but flexibility and patience will results in the best images and most efficient session.

-You’re welcome to bring someone along to take your older children home or to school after their part, or a parent (usually dad) can take them while the other parent (usually mom) stays with baby during the session. Your older kiddos are more than welcome to stay, though, but they must stay out of the shooting area and be aware baby needs to stay sleepy. There’s a small play space and books for them to hopefully pass the time more easily. There’s a coffee station for mom & dad, too.

-If you need to put yourself together once at the studio, that is fine. We can prep baby and I will start with him/her while you change clothes, get siblings dressed, do your makeup, etc. Just let me know!