Preparing for Your Newborn Session
Welcoming a new baby is such a special, fleeting season, and I want your session to feel as relaxed and natural as possible. Newborn photography is truly my passion and I'm truly honored when parents choose me to capture these special memories. This guide is here to help you feel fully prepared, from what to wear to how to plan around your baby's needs, so we can create a calm, comfortable environment. When you feel at ease, everything else comes together naturally.
Preparing Baby
If possible, try to keep your baby awake for a little while before leaving the house, and plan to feed them right before the session or as soon as you arrive. A full, sleepy baby helps us ease into those calm, natural moments. Please try to dress baby in a zip-up sleeper or something that doesn't need to go over their head and is easy to remove when you arrive. Don’t worry if things don’t go exactly to plan—sessions are always led by your baby’s needs.
What to Bring
Please bring anything baby needs for feeding, extra milk if bottle feeding, and a pacifier (even if baby doesn't regularly take one it, it can be very helpful for soothing during transitions). I provide all props, wraps, outfits, and accessories for all newborn sessions, but if there’s anything particular or sentimental you’d like included, feel free to bring that along as well, and I’ll incorporate it in a simple, meaningful way.
Parents & Sibling Outfits
I recommend soft, neutral tones and simple pieces without bold patterns or logos. Think creams, whites, earthy tones, and soft pastels or muted colors. I will have an outfit or wrap for baby that coordinates with the rest of the family. The goal is to keep the focus on your connection and your baby, creating a timeless, natural look. Family photos are taken either in our lifestyle bedroom set up (shown below) or on a solid colored backdrop (brown or cream) whichever you prefer! I keep the studio very warm for baby's comfort so feel free to also bring a change of clothes for yourself so you are comfortable!
Parents & Sibling Photos
Parent and sibling photos are typically captured during the first 20–30 minutes of the session or at the very end of the session. Some families choose to have a grandparent or another caregiver come with them and take younger siblings home or to grab some lunch after their portion or bring them at the very end of the session, so they don’t need to sit through the entire thing. We can always adjust to accommodate what works best for your family!
During the Session
Sessions are unhurried and typically last between 2-3 hours to allow time for feeding, changing, and soothing. I follow your baby’s lead the entire time, creating a calm and comfortable environment for everyone involved. I also provide drinks and light snacks for your comfort while you wait!
Q: When is the best time to schedule a newborn session?
A: I highly encourage parents to book during the 2nd trimester to ensure availability (plus it's one less thing to do after baby is born). The ideal time to do the session is between 5–21 days after birth. Newborns are typically sleepier and more flexible during this period, allowing for those curled-up, peaceful poses.
Q: Where do newborn sessions take place?
A: Sessions are done at our in-home studio in Zanesville, Ohio.
Q: How long does a newborn session last?
A: Sessions typically last 2–3 hours. This allows time for multiple set ups, feeding breaks and soothing when needed.
Q: Can family members be in the photos?
A: Absolutely, as long as your package includes a family portion! Parent and sibling photos are encouraged.
Q: What should I do if my baby is fussy during the session?
A: It’s completely normal! We will stop and address anything that baby needs during the session.
Q: What should we wear for the session?
A: For parents and siblings, I recommend neutral, solid colors. Avoid patterns or bright colors that might distract from your newborn. For baby, I provide outfits, wraps and accessories that coordinate with the rest of the family.
Q: Do you provide props and accessories?
A: Yes, I have a variety of props, wraps and accessories. You’re also welcome to bring any meaningful or sentimental items you’d like to include.
Q: When will we see our photos?
A: You will receive your gallery within 2 weeks. If you allow your photos to be shared on social media, you may also see a sneak peek of a few images on my story or page within a couple of days of your session.
Q: What if my baby has acne or flaky skin or blemishes?
A: These are very common in newborns. I utilize skin retouching on final images to minimize the look of all skin issues.
