Welcome home, sweet baby
let's take some pictures
Lifestyle newborn sessions are my absolute favorite type of photos to shoot (especially during the Minnesota winters since we can ditch the cold outdoors and still capture something beautiful). As a mom of two myself, I know how difficult it is to pack the diaper bag, make sure everyone is dressed and fed only to rush out the door in hopes of making it to your destination on time. With lifestyle sessions at home, I come to you and take the stress of leaving the house off your plate. From diaper and outfit changes to feeding and snuggling on the couch, I'm here to document it all.
What to Expect
When initially scheduling your newborn session with me (typically 2-3 months before your due date is ideal), I'll hold time on my calendar for your session around your due date. Once baby is here, I ask you to send me a message so I can clear my calendar and officially get your session on the books. Ideally, your newborn session will take place within 2 weeks of baby being born. Why? Several reasons! One being that babies are still very sleepy during this time (you know... when they have their days and nights a bit backwards :) ), which makes them more cooperative for photos. Another being that baby acne and little face scratches are less likely to happen at this age. If your little one already has this, don't worry! My general guideline is that if it's temporary (acne, scratches, bruises, etc.) I will edit it out. If it's a birth mark, it stays. Trust me, you'll want to remember every tiny little detail of your baby.
What to Wear
The most commonly asked question for ALL sessions! For my newborn sessions, I highly encourage everyone to wear light, neutral colors. Think along the lines of white, cream, beige, maybe a tiny bit of grey. The reason for this is that colors cast reflections, and we want to capture baby's skin as true to color as possible. Try to stay away from clothing that has bright colors, large logos and sequins (I know this may cause some conflicts if you have a 2-year old princess-loving daughter like me). We want the attention to be on you and your baby, and busy clothing can be distracting.
Simple is best. Comfort is essential, especially in those early postpartum days. For the mamas, think flowy dresses, a comfortable sweater, or some stretchy pants. For the little babe, I'll bring along my collection of simple swaddles and bloomers to cover up those diapers for some nakey baby shots, but some other great options are knotted gowns and simple onesies.
Some of my favorite shops for baby's outfits are Spearmint Love and Luna & Luca.
How to Prep
Once we establish the date and time for your session (start times typically vary between 10am and 1pm for best indoor lighting), we will want to identify the best areas in your home to use for photos. I typically encourage my families to choose 1-3 spaces in their homes with the best natural lighting. The bigger the window, the better. You'll want to open up all of your curtains and blinds and turn off any overhead lighting as this tends to cast a yellow tint and give unwanted shadows. Please.. do not feel the need to deep clean your entire house. Seriously, please don't. But if you have the time to declutter the few areas with best lighting (typically this is baby's nursery, parents' or guest bedrooms and the living room), that will help our session go smoother. Grab a laundry bin and toss those phone chargers and awesome hospital Stanleys in there while we capture your sweet family.
One note to keep in mind with bedding (whether that be in baby's crib or another bedroom in your home), there are some really beautiful colors and patterns out there when it comes to comforters, throw pillows and quilts. However, these colors can cast colors onto baby's skin (just as certain clothing will). Whites and creams are always going to photograph best. So if you can, keep it plain and simple.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plan to feed baby?
We love to have a full, cozy and content baby for the session. If possible, feed baby right before your session starts. If you would like photos nursing your baby, please let me know ahead of time so we can try to coordinate your session time around baby's feeding schedule.
What if we don't have baby's nursery ready?
That's ok! Honestly, we can accomplish so much with one window, a floor, and a bed or couch. Nursery and crib are not required :)
My baby is really fussy. What if she cries the whole time?
It's okay. I allow ample time to complete our session together, so we can take a break at any time for cuddles, feeding, pacifier breaks or anything else your babe might need.
Can our dog join?
Of course!
What is your gallery turnaround time?
I pride myself on my prompt gallery turnaround times. I post 1-2 sneak peeks within 24 hours of your session and deliver your full gallery within 2-3 weeks.
So what do you think, mama? Ready to book your newborn session? Click here and let's get started!
