With two kids of my own, I realize just how fleeting these moments are. One moment their tiny little heads fit in the palm of your hand- the next they are off exploring the world as little people!
What Experience/Training do you have as a Newborn Photographer?
I have over 4 years of experience working with newborns, and countless hours spent on training and workshops. I only offer a safe, calm environment for your precious new baby, and their safety would never be compromised to get an image. In fact, I do a LOT of work in photoshop, and the majority of my images are called composites. This means that I am able to combine multiple images together to create a final image. For example, with my image of the baby on the rocking horse, an assistant was holding baby the entire time, but I was able to fully remove her in the final edit- so it looks as if baby is sleeping on the horse all by herself! 99% of the time I will have an experienced assistant with me for the session. She is never further than arms reach away from the baby.
When should I book my newborn session? How do I secure my spot?
Generally, my clients book within a few months of delivery (and some the moment they find out they're pregnant!) The sooner the better is key, to avoid disappointment. We generally set a tentative date based on your due date. Generally babies don’t arrive when predicted, but at least we will have a starting point, and I will put you in my calendar for your birth 'month'. A retainer deposit MUST be made to book your session date. I sometimes have a wait list for sessions, and without a deposit, your spot will not be secured. My pre-booked clients will always take priority over sessions booked last minute. Deposits on last minute session bookings must be paid at the latest, 24 hours before the session takes place.
When will the session take place?
Newborns are best photographed within the first fourteen days after birth. I generally try and book around the 6-10 day mark, as they tend to sleep better and love being all curled up in those sweet poses! However, please do not hesitate to contact me if your baby is older. I have very successfully photographed 'newborn' images of 5 and 6 week old babies; especially if they were born prematurely. Sometimes the only difference is we will get more awake/alert images with baby looking right at the camera! These are some of my favourite photos!
How long does the session last?
I typically schedule newborn sessions in the morning around 9:30-10am. This has been proven to be the most successful time for photographing the babies, as they tend to sleep better and fuss a lot less. The majority of newborn sessions last around 2 hours. This will allow us to take multiple breaks for you to feed and soothe your infant. For the husbands and younger children, I have a rec room area with recliners, a washroom and a big screen TV for your comfort. Netflix is readily available, as well as a mountain of toys for older siblings to keep busy while they wait.
What about photos with families/siblings?
I always welcome siblings to come and be a part of the family photos. Please try to keep them calm during this time as a quiet atmosphere is very important in obtaining newborn photos. Having someone to keep the siblings occupied is a must, as I generally keep the studio door closed to avoid disruption, and to keep the room toasty warm for the newborn. It is recommended to have someone available to take the sibling home after they are finished. Newborn sessions are lengthy and siblings will get bored very quickly.
How do we prepare for the session?
Please read through the PDF forms in your welcome packet, including how to prepare for your session. There is quite a bit of reading involved, but following a few simple guidelines results in a smooth and calm session.
What should I bring for the baby to wear?
Most of my work is done using wraps, covers and nude. I have a posing workflow I generally go through, and try not to disturb the baby once they are sleeping by changing outfits, putting on pants etc . Besides, they are only this size for a very short time and clothes tend to add bulk and detract from their tiny features. If you are planning on family or sibling photos with your newborn, I suggest you wear something comfortable. Jeans with a black or neutral tone (Brown, beige, cream,etc.) shirt/t-shirt/blouse work best. It's a good idea to bring along a change of clothes as newborns are bound to have accidents at their sessions. (Generally my assistant gets the brunt of this, but she's used to it! Dad may not be haha)
What do we expect once we arrive?
Expect to have a rest! Honestly... I want you to feel at home, comfortable and relaxed during the session. Once you arrive with baby, I will show you the colours and sets I have chosen based on our previous discussions. I will have bottled water on site, and encourage you to bring snacks, a book or just have a snooze! If you want to watch the entire session unfold, feel free! Explore and pick through my props, hats, headbands and wraps.
A NOTE ON HEALTH
Both of my children and I are up to date on necessary vaccines and flu shots. I do this for the health and safety of the babies I handle and photograph in my home. This is very important to me, especially handling premies and babies that have spent time in the NICU. I do have a pet friendly home, but keep my animals locked up when clients are visiting. My pets and my own children are not allowed in my studio space. I also wash and or/spot clean materials and blankets used after each session. If I am sick even with a common cold, I will reschedule your newborn session until I'm better. I encourage you to do the same, especially with older siblings who are sick and may be touching items in my studio. Just as with safety, I will not risk the health of any newborn baby.
If you have any questions or concerns at all, I encourage you to contact me via phone, email or text!