When to Book Maternity and Newborn Sessions

Only about 5% of babies are actually born on their due date, so you may be wondering when you should book a newborn session. I’ve had people book sessions when they’re 12 weeks along, and I’ve had people book sessions when their newborn is 3 weeks old. I’ve even had people book sessions for 3 month olds, because they regretted not booking a “newborn” session. Fall is my busy season, so if you’re expecting a little one September through December, I recommend reaching out early, if you can. But in general, I’d say - reach out whenever you think do to so! And if that’s the day you find out you’re pregnant, then great! Or if that’s during a 2am feeding with your 4 week old, then great! I will always try to find a time to get you in, but I do love having some heads-up, if you happen to be a planner.

I recommend scheduling newborn sessions within 4 weeks of your due date. More traditional newborn photographers who utilize elaborate newborn posing would give you a different answer. Fortunately, there’s no wrong age for lifestyle photos! Phew! I will tell you that newborns tend to be the sleepiest in the first 2 weeks. A lot of moms prefer an awake baby, however! (Or maybe just a little more time for them to recover…) At the end of the day, it’s a personal preference. Once you reach out to me, we’ll get a tentative date on the calendar. If your little one arrives early or late, we can reschedule as needed.

When it comes to maternity photos, it’s again…subjective. How pregnant do you want to be in photos? If it’s your first baby, you may not really show until later in the pregnancy. But keep in mind that babies are unpredictable. I wouldn’t recommend scheduling a maternity session too close to your due date. Taking photos in the 7-8 month window would probably be my general guidance, but I’m happy to take photos before or after that as well!

Hello There, 2022

As we walk into 2022 with a mix of big feelings, I just want to remind you all that the health and safety of your family is very important to me. I am vaccinated, boosted, and more than happy to wear a mask to your photo session. If I think I might be sick, I’ll let you know so we can reschedule. If you’re feeling sick, I simply ask that you do the same!

Things have been quiet around our house, spending most days cuddling at home and going for walks in the neighborhood. So here’s a snuggly shot of my almost-one-and-a-half-year-old right before his nap. May your snuggles be just as sweet!

4 Things Every Newborn Mom Apologizes For (But Doesn't Need To)

As a newborn photographer, I meet a lot of moms in the trenches of survival mode. I get it! I was there too! You’re sleep deprived and trying to figure out the dos and don’ts of feeding your baby. You’re desperate to find some bit of normalcy, and you’ve just met 2 new people - your baby and the new you. But there is so much joy and so many sweet moments in this time as well, so you’ve hired a photographer so you never forget how tiny and precious this little baby once was. (And maybe you’d like to fill your feed with dreamy photos of your adorable family…). In the midst of this crazy time, almost all moms apologize for these 4 things. I’m here to tell you that 1) it’s normal! and 2) you don’t need to apologize!

1. I’m sorry my house is a mess

Don’t be! I fully expect your house to be a mess. I’d be sort of shocked if it wasn’t, actually. The first thing I do at every newborn photo session is take a little tour of the house to find the spots with the best lighting. From there, I’ll probably ask if I can move a few things (ie - the half empty water bottle sitting on your nightstand). I’ll tidy things up for the purposes of photos, and your house will look clean and clutter-free!

2. I’m sorry my toddler is misbehaving

Don’t be! She’s not acting out of the ordinary. She’s acting like a 2 year old, because she is one! I’m used to that, believe me. I won’t bat an eye. Instead, I’ll suggest ideas that will help that older sibling get excited for photos and make the session more fun for her.

3. I’m sorry my newborn is crying

Don’t be! Babies cry. We can always take a break to make sure your newborn is well taken care of and having his or her needs met. I’ve built in time to allow for the unpredictable nature of babies - a blowout, multiple feedings, fussiness. Please don’t feel rushed!

4. I’m sorry my dog is so excited

Don’t be! I LOVE dogs, and I am super excited to meet yours! There’s no need to hide your dog in a room until they’re needed in a photo. In fact, having the dog around while we take other photos may help your dog calm down. If you don’t want your dog walking in and out of photos, feel free to shut the door. But if you’re ok with your dog in photos, I am too! That’s life, and I’m here to photograph life.

The moral of the story is that I’m not here to judge you. I’m not here to stress you out or rush you. I’m here to take beautiful photos of your family. I want the time to be enjoyable for you, and I want the photos to capture all the love within your family.