Lifestyle Newborn Session - $475
When is the best time to schedule a newborn session?
I highly recommend contacting me early in your 2nd trimester to "pencil" in a date around when you are due. That will guarantee a spot on my calendar. Then once baby is born we will move the date up or back as needed to get the photos taken within the first 2 weeks, if at all possible.
Why are the photos taken so soon after birth?
Newborn photos are best taken when the baby is less than 2 weeks old. There are several reasons for this. The number one reason being that at this stage, babies are still very sleepy and curly, which makes it easy to get those peaceful, sleepy shots you see so much in my work. Once baby is more adjusted to life on the outside, they aren't as easy to pose and are more alert, and they want to bust out of their snuggly wrap. Additionally, after the first couple weeks of life, they change so quickly! They lose those sweet new baby touches like milia (little white bumps on her nose), the lanugo (fine hair on her shoulders, neck and forehead), the pink squishy cheeks, and sweet milk-blistered lips! I want to capture all of these sweet things for you!
Where does the session take place?
At your home! My newborn sessions are all lifestyle, in-home or in some cases outdoors, family-style. Your home/decor will be the backdrop for your images. Think: lounging on the couch, snuggling in the master bedroom, hanging out in the nursery... These sessions will focus primarily on the interaction between baby and family, rather than on props and set poses.
How long is a newborn session?
A newborn session in your home will last typically 1-2 hours, depending on baby's temperament that day, as well as how often he/she needs snuggled, fed, or changed. We take as much time as we need for baby to be happy and comfortable, no rushing. :)
What do I need to have/bring?
For our session, it would be helpful to have the basics on hand, such as diapers, wipes, pacifier, burp cloths, and if applicable a bottle for feeding. I will bring a white wrap for baby, a neutral blanket, and possibly a headband or two for little girls, but I'm also happy to use any wraps or hair accessories you have as well. Just keep in mind, we aren't really doing posed shots, so crochet outfits and such probably won't be used. If you have any family heirlooms (blankets, stuffed animals, etc.) or items special to you that you'd like to use, let me know. I'm sure we could work them in, no problem! I may bring along 1 or 2 props, but it's not a guarantee they will be used.
How should we prepare the baby and dress for the session?
It's always nice to have baby happy and fed and comfortable before I arrive whenever possible. I suggest diaper only and wrapped in a blanket, or in a simple zipped sleeper for easy removal to be wrapped in my swaddle. As for the family outfits, this will be up to you and the look you want! My suggestion is to keep it simple and comfortable, as that would make more sense for a session based inside your home. Formal wear may look out of place and uncomfortable. Can we get some photos of the baby's siblings as well? Absolutely! Lifestyle newborn sessions are all about the family AND new baby. We will always try to get photos of baby with siblings. Just bear in mind that there are no guarantees with toddlers, especially if they are still adjusting to having this new baby in the house, and safety will always be top priority!
What kind of poses will you do?
Please look at some of my Newborn session gallery images below :)
© 2022 Jessica Zellars Photography
