Before Your Session
When To Schedule
The best time to schedule a newborn session is during your second trimester of pregnancy. Newborns are best photographed within the first 2 weeks of life, 4-10 days being optimal. To best assure availability for your newborn session, please contact me 4 weeks in advance to reserve a tentative time frame. I reserve a limited amount of sessions and my calendar can fill up quickly. Last minute newborn inquiries are welcome and I will do my best to schedule you- but there is no guarantee.
The best time to photograph maternity portraits is around 28-34 weeks (we want you to have “popped” but still feel your best.) If you are looking for outdoor pictures, the best time of day for lighting is in the evenings and in the early mornings. Of course, we can make anytime work for us and there are always exceptions. I am happy to coordinate with you on the scheduling of your session. All available slots are on a first-come, first-served basis.
If you are interested in me capturing the birth of your child, it is best to contact me at the very beginning of your second trimester. Due to the on-call nature of births, I only schedule two per month and thus am very limited. In addition, I like to schedule a meeting with all my birth parents in the beginning of the third trimester to go over your birth photography preferences.
I will return all phone calls and e-mails in the order they are received, usually within one-two business days. To retain your appointment reservation, your deposit must be received with your signed online contract.
What to Wear
Choosing clothing for portraits can be one of the most stressful part of the process for many folks. First of all, breathe deep, and do not stress. Clothing will not “make or break” your photos. To help you, I have provided some suggestions. I have also included some links that you make find helpful.
Maternity
Fitted tops in solid colors tend to look best in maternity photos. If you would like to show off your bare belly you may want a simple tank top, tube-top (belly banz work great) or top that you can pull up. I know that while you are pregnant the last thing you may want to do is wear tight fitting clothing or show off your belly, but in years to come you will look back with pride at the growing child inside you.
Newborns
To be honest, newborns can sometimes get lost in their clothes. Often times they are most beautiful bare or in just a diaper or plain cloth. We can do a lot with just accessories! For the parents, it is best to have a black and/or white top handy as we will likely take photos of you holding your child against you and the contrast of your babies skin again your shirt can look amazing.
Clothing for Infants
For children under 6 months, I usually like photographing them in just diapers or simple outfits. Your choice of clothing is a personal matter. Accessories can also be a fun way to show personality and keep an infant busy . Knit hats, headbands or bows, your child’s favorite toy, rain jacket & boots or scarves can add something special! Bring what you like and we can play with it.