Pointers

Newborn

HEAT
newborns like to be nice & toasty! I suggest that you have your home warm enough that your baby will be comfortable being naked.

SLEEPY
newborns are best posing when they are sleeping.  To encourage this I suggest the baby is nice &  exhausted.

HUNGRY
well-fed baby is a happy baby.  Please feed and burp your baby right before our session to ensure a happy milk drunk baby.

NOISE
please do whatever you can to keep the noise level to a minimum in the house. A white noise machine would be great if you have one.

PATIENCE
newborn sessions require LOTS of patience.  The baby’s mood & decision to sleep is not something we can predict.

RELAX
along with patience comes a stress-free & relaxed atmosphere.  Feel free to rest & leave the room for a bit.  Nap…take a shower or entertain your toddler.

Moms tend to stress out if their baby is fussy or having a difficult time getting settled.  No problem…hugs, cuddling, feeding or a break and we’ll start again.  Sometimes the best photos happen when the baby isn’t doing what we want.  Remember, babies can sense stress especially their mommy’s.  It’s super important that we all remain calm and keep the environment as mellow as possible.

PROPS
I keep it simple.  I have some props that I will bring along.  Wraps, headbands, blankets, baskets & some newborn outfits.  You are welcome to use any of your own outfits or props.  Look for items with texture & color.

If you have any family heirlooms (baby shoes, bonnets, toys) that you would like me to use, please have the ready before I arrive.

WHAT TO WEAR?

YOU ~ I know having just had a baby you’re not feeling your best but take this time to ‘refresh’.  Get your hair & nails done, maybe a massage…resulting in a relaxed mommy.

CLOTHING ~ keep it simple.  Crème, white & black all look fab for your baby’s newborn photos  If you feel comfortable, a simple cami (have a pretty neutral blouse nearby) is a great option.  Cooler colors, grey & blush are also good options.  Dreamy dress, jeans with light blouse or sweater, black stretch pants with blouse or sweater.  Mom & Dad should try to match helping to keep unity throughout the family shots & focused on the precious baby you are holding.

BABIES & SKIN are a great combo.  Cami, tank top, tube top or belly band (pulled up over breasts) is a great way to make the ‘what to wear’ become a non-issue.  Dads are also welcome to remove their shirts if they are comfortable.

SIBLINGS
basically the same.  Neutrals are best.  Little boys (shirts off is adorable). Think ‘dreamy’ for little girls.  A few options are a good idea.  I will photograph the sibling(s) alone while the baby is nursing or taking a break.  (I have dresses that I can bring if you are interested).

A FEW POINTERS

  • make sure you are nice & relaxed & the outfits for your baby have been selected
  • make sure you have your outfits selected, steamed & ironed.
  • I’ll more than likely shoot some shots in your bedroom.  Please have your bed made and if possible solid|white to light crème bedding (nothing too busy) to keep things light & airy.  (I have a king size white comforter that I would be happy to bring along.)

HOW TO REACH ME

My goal is to respond quickly to your email or text inquiry.  If you have found me on Facebook & used messenger, I ask that moving forward we communicate by either email or text.  It keeps our line of communication simple.

WHEN WILL I GET MY GALLERY

A sneak peek usually within one day and full gallery 2-3 weeks depending on the season.

Children

Depending on the time of year sessions are done either at your home inside or outdoors.  Happy to provide a list of other locations.

A non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your date.  (may be transferred in case of bad weather.)

  • Food/snacks as rewards ~ I don’t recommend at any (unless babies being fed their bottles).  Food being offered as a reward usually works contrary to the goal or at best for a short time.  They will want the M & M’s now!  Prize suggestions – you know what will make your child happy.  Try that.
  • Props | clothing ~ I do have some props that I can bring along after our initial consultation of what your expectations are.  I always suggest bringing a favorite toy, book or lovie that means something to them right now.  Again…storytelling.  I have dresses, gowns, clothing.
  • If your child is shy…we’ll work around it.  I’ve captured shots of children who can’t seem to stop crying without their mom.
  • If you have a scheduled a children’s shoot, please don’t ask if you can ‘jump in’ on a few shots.  I thank you in advance for that.
  • Unless I ask for your help in getting them to smile, it’s best if you leave that in my directive so I’m not losing their attention & then trying to get it back.
  • taking photos with your smartphone is ok for a few shots.  Again it’s a distraction from what I’m trying to accomplish.
  • outfit changes ~ I usually suggest at least one outfit change which will be discussed at the time when you book your session.
  • child’s session lasts about 1 – 1 1/2 hours depending on the age of the child(ren).

 

HOW TO REACH ME

My goal is to respond quickly to your email or text inquiry.  If you have found me on Facebook & used messenger, I ask that moving forward we communicate by either email or text.  It keeps our line of communication simple.

WHEN WILL I GET MY GALLERY

A sneak peek usually within one day and full gallery 2-3 weeks depending on the season.

Family

WHAT TO WEAR

Clients always ask ‘what do we wear?’ Coordinating can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be.  Here are some ‘tips’.

  • WINTER
    • layers – create contrast & visually appealing. Keep you warm – cardigans, blazers, scarves, hat & gloves.
    • choose two main shades that are your favorites & build on that (brightest color should be used to accent)
    • accessorize

If you’re still stuck, I’ll do my best to make suggestions.  Pinterest is a good starting point!  Feel free to screenshot/text me your potential outfits & I can offer suggestions.

WORRIED ABOUT HOW TO POSE?

Don’t worry about how you stand, sit & pose.  I’ll guide you along often starting by showing you examples on my phone to get you started.

After a few minutes, you’re in the groove & a few pointers here & there & we’re golden!

HOW TO REACH ME

My goal is to respond quickly to your email or text inquiry.  If you have found me on Facebook & used messenger, I ask that moving forward we communicate by either email or text.  It keeps our line of communication simple.

WHEN WILL I GET MY GALLERY

A sneak peek usually within one day and full gallery 2-3 weeks depending on the season.

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