I'm so excited to be working with you and I can’t wait for our time together during your session. It’s normal to be a little anxious about your session. You're a busy family with quite a few things on your plate.
That's actually one of the reasons why I put together this guide. It covers things to keep in mind when it comes to choosing a location, outfits, prepping kids and more.
Hopefully it helps you feel fully prepared for our time together, but should you have any other questions or if you need advice, please feel free to reach out!
- jessica
One thing I've learned over the years is that our experience of our children is different from what others experience. For example, if you’re at the grocery store with your three year old son and he starts yelling, you probably think he’s irritating other customers more than he is. Most likely, those other customers just see a cute (slightly loud,) three year old.
The same holds true for photo sessions. Your child is in a new element and a stranger is holding a big camera in front of their face. They’re likely not going to entirely be themselves. They may show off more than usual or your extrovert may suddenly become shy.
Rest assured, it’s all okay.
Managing
little ones
The best thing you can do for your kids is to go with the flow and stay positive. The more you relax and have fun with things, the more likely your little one (or big one,) is to get on board.
It can also be helpful to pack a few treats and bribes for younger children. Favorite toys, special snacks and the promise of ice cream afterwards work wonders.
I'm incredibly patient with kids and I even have a few tricks up my sleeve to help get even the smallest ones to cooperate.
Newborn
Your baby doesn't need a lot when it comes to choosing their wardrobe. I recommend at least one neutral swaddle (and a bow for a girl!) and one other easy to slip on outfit. Less is more! If you're up for it, we can also grab a few shots wrapped in just a blanket or swaddle towards the end of our time, too!
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This is a season when you might not quite feel like yourself. A fresh outfit you feel good in goes a long way. That's why I have a carefully curated client closet to help take away any stress and make you feel your best! Session days are also a good day to take others up on that offer to help. You are one hard working mama and if you have time to nap, shower and get ready in peace, you’re going to love these images a lot more.
Dear Mama,
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While your entire house doesn’t need to look like it’s ready for Pinterest, I do recommend cleaning up the nursery and any places you think I might shoot. This might include your bed, the couch or a spot in your home with beautiful natural light. But truly, that's all you need to prep. I know you're in the throes of newborn life and I won't judge the pile of dishes in the sink or baby paraphernalia that has suddenly taken over the house.
Preparing your home
baby Outfits
I recommend feeding your baby 30 minutes before I arrive. That way your baby will have a full tummy and be at their sleepiest. Make sure to change their diaper and outfit too. If you're baby is alseep when I arrive, we can start with photos of just them. However, don't stress if they aren't asleep or need some extra cuddles. We can always begin the shoot with them in your arms and then move onto photos of just them after they fall asleep!
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01
Preparing your Baby
The following tips below will help ensure everyone is happy throughout your session.
Newborns
a note about
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When picking outfits I recommend keeping in mind the word “complement” rather than “match.” For example, if Dad is wearing a blue and pink pastel plaid shirt, then Mom may want to choose a long, soft blue dress. It can also be a great idea to choose “color-families,” such as pastels or jewel tones.
A good rule of thumb: pick 3 or so colors and spread them throughout the family. Don't be afraid to mix a few subtle patterns or textures (such as linen).
Choosing Outfits
for everyone
view my pinterest board
I love long, flowy dresses for mamas. In fact, you can find several options like that in my client closet!
I love the way larger patterns and textures (like linen) photograph - just be careful not to choose a pattern that is too small - it may accidentally make your photo look a little too busy.
Softer, pastel colors tend to photograph better than bright colors - especially since bright colors could reflect on your skin. Bright, neon dresses don’t can tend to add a neon reflection to your skin - neutral colors look best!
Wardrobe Tips
for the ladies
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Statement jewelry or accessories are a great way to add color or pattern to a simple dress.
Lace and tulle look amazing in photographs.
And dresses with sleeves are a great way to help slim arms.
Depending on your location, you might want to consider a fit and flare or a flowy dress.
They look great in walking and photos with movement.
Choose an outfit you feel comfortable in, but don’t be afraid to dress up!
Accessories
for the ladies
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Rent the Runway
ASOS
Morning Lavender
J. Crew
Anthropologie
Free People
Jessakae
Petal & Pup
Pink Blush (Maternity)
H&M
Vici Dolls
Virginia Dare Dress Co.
Baltic Born Clothing
Madewell
Kate + Grace Boutique
Favorite Shops
Able
Zara
Mango
Nothing Fits But
Sezane
Hill House Home
Reformation
Rachel Pally
Nuuly
Christy Dawn
Rylee & Cru
Clad & Cloth
Ivy City
Shopbop
Everlane
for the ladies
on to the next
view my pinterest board
I think it’s so important that you look and feel your best for your photos. Investing in professional hair and makeup can go a long way towards creating photos you love for years.
Professionally done hair & makeup last longer than typical hair & makeup. They also tend to hold up better in humidity and wind.
If you go this route, I recommend staying a bit “classic”. Now probably isn’t the best time to try out that new contouring technique you saw on TikTok.
If you’re planning to do any spray tans or waxing, schedule those for a few days before the session to give your skin time to recover.
Hair & Makeup
for the ladies
on to the next
You can’t go wrong with crisp button up. Or consider layering a blazer or sweater with jeans with this look.
Bowties are always a good idea.
Be careful not to choose a pattern that is too small - it may accidentally make your photo look a little too busy.
Softer, pastel colors tend to photograph better than bright colors - especially since bright colors could reflect on your skin.
Cozy sweaters layered over button ups are a great way to stay warm and stylish during the cooler months.
Wardrobe
for the gents
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Wardrobe
for the gents
on to the next
Rent the Runway
ASOS
Suit Supply
J. Crew
Zara
Leather & Cotton
Jack Threads
Frank & Oak
Nordstrom
Cuts
H&M
Urban Outfitters
Madewell
Lululemon
Everlane
Banana Republic
Mango
Reiss
Alex Mill
Untuckit
Amazon - GoodThreads
Bonobos
Abercrombie
Rag & Bone
view my pinterest board
Kate Quinn
Zara Kids
Quincy Mae
Rylee & Cru
Noralee
Target - Cat & Jack, Art Class, Q by Quincy Mae
H&M Kids
Crew Cuts by J Crew
Roolee
Alice & Ames
Favorite Shops
Smallable
Fin and Vance
Little & Co.
Briar Baby
Jaime Kay
Childhoods Clothing
Spearmint Love
Gap
Old Navy
Boden
Hanna Andersson
for the kids
on to the next
view my pinterest board
When it comes to posing for your session, you don’t need to worry about a thing! I'll guide you through the entire process beginning with “poses” that are super easy and natural. If I tell you to do something that feels a little funny, it’s probably because I know it’s going to make everyone laugh - and that’s the photo I'm actually looking for.
Throughout your session, I'll keep an eye on your hair, makeup and outfits to make sure things stay in place. I want you to feel as relaxed as possible and enjoy your time together!
"What do I do with
my hands"?
"What do I do
with my hands"?
POSING
Yes, you are welcome to print the images on your own. If you do this, I recommend making sure that the printer does not color correct the images (many automatically do this.) I also recommend looking for a high quality printer. While 10 cent prints sound great in theory, the cheaper printing quality often won’t do your images justice. Paper quality, color correction and a handful of other factors play a big role in the way your prints turn out. This is one of the reasons why I LOVE offering prints to my clients.
A:
Can I print the images on my own?
q:
While I don’t guarantee an exact number of images, I will make sure I capture your family thoroughly. Most families should expect to receive at least 30 edited images following their session.
A:
How many images will I receive?
q:
I guarantee that your images will remain in an online gallery for at least two years. While your galleries may stay up longer than that, I cannot guarantee it. Once your galleries have been delivered, I highly recommend downloading all high resolution images to several devices. Consider investing in a portable, waterproof external hard drive.
A:
How long will I have access to the images?
q:
While turnaround times can vary by season, I aim to deliver all images within three weeks of your session.
A:
When will I receive my images?
q:
Frequently
asked
Questions
Yes! You are absolutely welcome to share images on social media. I'd love for you to tag me if you can :)
A:
Can I share the images on social media?
q:
By default, the creators of images always own the rights to the images. However I’ll give you a release to use, print and share your images. The only thing you won’t be able to do is sell your image as a stock photo. I won’t do this either without your written permission.
A:
Do I own the rights to the images?
q:
I typically plan about 60-90 minutes for sessions. I'm always happy to stay longer though if needed. I feel pretty certain we will have at least one dirty diaper, need a break for a feeding or anything else a newborn might require.
A:
How long should we plan for the session to take?
q:
I do light retouching on all of your images. This means that if there are any glaring objects that should be removed (such as a bump from the tumble your toddler took that morning,) I’ll remove it. Larger edits (such as removing tan lines,) require more time and would require me to add additional editing hours to your collection.
A:
Will you retouch our images?
q:
As soon as possible after your session is complete, I’ll back up your images and begin the editing process. Unless there is a holiday closure, you can expect to receive your edited, digital images between 3 and 4 weeks after your session.
Your Images
When to Expect
I'm a big believer that images aren’t meant to solely exist in a digital space. One day, most likely, Instagram will be gone, your phone will be replaced and images that you can physically hold in your hand will be the best way to remember those precious moments we captured.
Think about this fact: fifteen years ago, if I had delivered you digital images, they would have been on a floppy disk. With the fast updates to technology, you would have no way to access those images today. Even the online galleries I deliver will eventually fade away.
But prints? Those last. I bet your family still has images from your grandparents (maybe even great grandparents.) And that was likely from a time period when cameras were expensive and prints were harder to come by.
Bring Your Images to Life with
prints
Perfect for those who value legacy. These heirloom albums are a great way to house a large number of images in a beautiful way. Leave them on display as coffee table books or protect them with a legacy box.
Albums
My framed and matted prints are the perfect way to fill your walls with memories. With a variety of frames to choose from, I’ll help you select the perfect image pairings for your space.
Prints & Wall Art
inquire for a detailed product guide
Easy to hang and easy to change out. Canvases are one of my favorite ways to decorate a space. They also work great on little easels placed around the home.
Canvases
I know that this guide is long and hopefully it covers everything you need to know to prep for your newborn session. However if there is something I missed, or you need a recommendation feel free to text me.
434-477-6440