When do I book my newborn session?
There is room for a limited number of newborns per month. I encourage moms to schedule as early as possible, preferably in the second trimester.
I will place your due date on the calendar. As we all know, babies will arrive at the exact moment they choose. It can be anywhere between, before or after your due date. I simply ask you contact me within 24 hours after delivery to reserve an exact date for your session. If you have a scheduled delivery, please provide that date. This allows you to choose your session date in advance.
I typically aim photograph your newborn 5-15 days post birth. Depending on the schedule with births, I may need to push past this timeframe. That will be ok. I am always very mindful of baby birthdate when scheduling. The calendar is always full and baby arrival is unpredicatable.
Where does the newborn session take place?
Newborn sessions take place in my home studio in Holtsville, Long Island. I offer a very clean, comfortable and safe environment. I will provide a peaceful atmosphere for your newborn as we photograph. This includes warm heat that makes your baby cozy for those adorable; natural photos. I also may use white noise to help soothe.
Is there anything I do to prepare for the session?
Preparation is of paramount importance when planning to photograph a newborn. Please note that sessions typically run approximately 3 hours (although I do not put a time limit). Your baby is the boss, so I factor in time for feedings, changings, or simply some needed cuddle time breaks.
In order for me to achieve those sweet and sleepy poses, it is helpful if your newborn is awake for as long as possible prior to our session. It is a good idea to bathe; engage and do what you feel you can to keep your baby alert. This will allow your newborn to be extra sleepy for me. I also encourage arrival a few minutes early to settle in. I request a full feeding at home right before your departure time. ( even if your newborn is not due to eat) Feeding right before leaving will make for a full belly on arrival. It also allows time to expel any trapped gas that may occur during feeding. You do not want a major feeding upon arrival as this can cause immediate gas or full bellies that are not looking to be molded right away. We will be feed when needed at various times during the session. Please always have extra food with you. It is encouraged to clean and moisturize your newborn prior to session. Please wash your babies hair! Even if the umbilical cord has not fallen yet and you are not fully bathing. A clean head of hair will look much nicer than greasy or wet looking hair for photos. It is recommended to bring your newborn here in clothing very simple to take on and off. PLease also bring two warm blankets for snuggles/feeding times in between sets. I also require a pacifier. I also require a pacifier that is not attached to a stuffed toy.
Can I bring anyone to the session?
I know it is a very exciting time for the entire family, however, to maximize our time it is best to have just mom and dad at newborn sessions. Newborn sessions can last a while and the more relaxed the environment, the more relaxed the baby; more success we have for all those fabulous poses we want to achieve. Siblings are welcome by request for a couple photos in the very beginning or very end of the session as they do not stay duration.
Do you provide all the props and accessories? Yes I do! I have developed an appreciation and understanding of style and design that began years ago. I offer an array of neutral, earthtone and an array of colors. I am mindful of complimentary color schemes in sets as well as what will compliment certain skin tones. I love all the subtle details and find myself in my happy place designing your newborn session. I offer a clean, timeless and classic style which will show off the newness and beauty of your baby. I also like to use props. Some props include baskets,beds, bowls and buckets to name just a few. I tirelessly spend hours upon hours researching looks, feels and textures. I also work with top notch vendors to achieve the desired outcome.
What happens after our session? When will our images be ready?
I like to start the post production process of editing as soon as possible. Turn around time is typically 1 to 2 weeks. Quick turn around time is important to you; therefore it is important to me. I know many of my clients want to get birth announcements out and I am very mindful of that.
I narrow down the best shots from your session and edit each one carefully myself.
I will deliver your images to your own password protected online gallery as well as your email address on file.
I like to upload a teaser photo on my Facebook/Instagram pages. This is not done until your gallery has already been delivered to you. I do not watermark images so I do ask to please not "re edit" my work with social media filters.
If you decide you would like to order professionally printed photos from the lab I use please discuss with me after you receive your gallery. I will offer you the pricing from our a la carte menu.
The photos that are on my password protected website gallery are for sharing purposes only. They are not the images that you will be downloading. Website gallery images will distort if anyone tries to download them. You will be instructed to download and save the gallery I send you privately to your own computer or device. Be sure to do this as I do not archive.
absolutely no cell phone pictures allowed at any photography session.
Do you offer discounts or specials?
Yes I do! I really appreciate my clients. I offer discounts on multi session booking. Please ask about my Grow With Me Milestone Package. I also like to offer fun mini sessions around the holidays for that perfect holiday card. Certain seasons also inspire me to offer a special mini sessions. Be sure to like and follow my Facebook/Instagram accounts to keep updated on these sessions.