Preparing for Precious Moments: Why Schedule Your Newborn Session Before Baby Arrives?

As you eagerly await the arrival of your little one, it's essential to plan for capturing those first precious moments. Scheduling your newborn session before baby arrives ensures that you secure a spot with your preferred photographer (that's me!) and sets you up for a stress-free, enjoyable experience.

Why Book Early?

1. Guarantee Your Spot: My calendar fills up quickly, especially during peak seasons like Spring. Booking early ensures that you don't miss out on your desired date.

2. Plan Ahead: With your session scheduled, you can focus on preparing outfits, props, and your home for the perfect lifestyle newborn photos.

3. Reduce Stress: Knowing that your newborn session is secured allows you to focus on the joy of welcoming your baby, rather than worrying about finding a photographer.

4. Enjoy the Journey: Booking early gives you time to think about the type of photos you want, the style, and the memories you want to capture.

Spring Babies, Take Note! As a Seattle newborn photographer, I can attest that Spring is my busiest time. Don't wait – book your session early to ensure availability.

What to Expect

- A relaxed, lifestyle approach to newborn photography

- Guidance on preparing your home and selecting outfits

- Capturing genuine moments, love, and connection

- Beautiful, timeless photos to treasure

Seattle Lifestyle Newborn Photography

As your Seattle newborn photographer, I'm committed to capturing the authentic, emotional moments of your baby's first days.

By scheduling your session before baby arrives, you'll:

- Secure your preferred date and time

- Enjoy a stress-free experience

- Receive stunning photos perfect for preserving memories

Don't miss this opportunity to capture your newborn's earliest moments. Book your session today and let's create beautiful, lasting memories.

Dressing Baby for a Lifestyle Newborn Session: Tips from a Seattle Newborn Photographer

Hey there, new parents! As a Seattle newborn photographer, I've had the privilege of capturing the sweetness of countless little ones. And, I've learned that what baby wears can make all the difference in creating a warm, cozy, and authentic atmosphere during our lifestyle newborn session.

So, what's the secret to dressing baby for a successful session? Keep it simple, sweet, and neutral!

Here are my top tips:

- Opt for a plain onesie or sleeper in a soft, neutral color like white, cream, or light gray. These colors will blend seamlessly with your home's decor and create a timeless look.

- Avoid bold patterns, bright colors, or busy designs that might distract from baby's sweet face and precious moments.

- Have a muslin swaddle or special blanket on hand for swaddling if baby is fussy. This will not only soothe your little one but also add a beautiful texture to our photos.

By dressing baby in neutral hues, we'll create a calm and peaceful atmosphere that showcases the beauty of your new addition. And, as a Seattle newborn photographer, I'll capture every precious moment in a way that's both authentic and stunning.

Whether you're in Seattle, or the surrounding areas of Shoreline, Kirkland, Redmond, Bellevue, Edmonds, or Everett, I'm here to help you cherish these early days with your little one. Book your lifestyle newborn photography session now and let's capture the magic!

What to Expect at Your Newborn Session

As one of the leading Seattle newborn photographers, my goal is to make sure your newborn session is as stress-free and relaxed as possible. After you’ve booked your newborn session, you may be wondering how the day of your session will go. Here’s what it will look like:

When I show up, I’ll ask that you take me on a quick tour of your home. This is to find where the best available light is. In Seattle, we can have lots of dark, gloomy days but I guarantee that there will be good light somewhere in your home. Most of the time, I’ll be looking in the main bedroom, nursery, and living room, but if there’s a good patch of light on your stairs, or in your kitchen, then we’ll likely use that space too.

Once I’ve identified the areas where the photo session will take place, I’ll gently guide you into a natural pose and have you interact with one another so that your images show your love and connection to your new little being. My general workflow (with a lot of flexibility) is whole family, siblings (if there are any), then I’ll have dad take siblings and focus on mom and baby and then baby alone, then mom and dad swap and I’ll photograph dad with baby, lastly, if we can steal a few moments from the siblings, I’ll photograph mom, dad, and baby together. I love to finish with a family portrait on the front porch if possible.

Sessions are entirely baby led so if baby needs a break, a diaper change, needs to feed, needs a swaddle etc, then they will get exactly what they need. While most sessions are done between one to one and a half hours, this will totally depend on your baby and their needs. I will never rush you or your baby.

I do recommend that you dress baby in a plain colored onesie or sleeper and have a swaddle or two on hand in case baby needs it. Try to pick swaddles that are either plain or have a pattern you love since you’ll be looking at your images over and over.

You don’t ever need to feel like you need to look and smile awkwardly for the camera. All you need to do is interact with your family and I’ll take care of the rest.

Before I arrive, you’ll want to make sure you are well fed. Nothing is worse than feeling hungry the whole time. Try to not put on your outfit until right before I arrive. Babies can have blowouts and spit up without much warning. Likewise, it’s a good idea to hold off on getting baby dressed until right before your session too. However, I do recommend dressing them before feeding them just in case they drift off to sleep during the feed so you don’t risk waking them.

I want you to tell me your stories. As a mother of four, I’ve been through lots of the same post partum experiences that you’re likely going through. I’ve had c sections, difficulties breastfeeding, easy recoveries, complications, and extremely rough recoveries. I’ve experienced sleepless nights and exhaustion, sibling rivalries, and self doubt. I’ve questioned myself multiple times when I’ve had to make yet another decision on the care of my children. So although I may be your newborn photographer, I’m also a great listener, sympathizer, and one of your biggest supporters. If you need a listening ear, I’m more than happy to take on that role.

Can a newborn session be held outdoors?

While the majority of newborn session are held at home, every now and then I have someone ask if we can do their newborn session outdoors. At the end of the day, they’re your photos and I want you to love them so if that’s what you desire, then that’s what we’ll do. There are some things to keep in mind though:

The weather

Little babies can’t regulate their temperature so shooting outdoors at any time other than summer is probably going to be too cold for them. If you do wish to have an outdoor newborn session in the cooler months, you’ll just want to make sure baby is well wrapped up.

Time of day

The best lighting for outdoor sessions is the hour before sunset. If your session is in summer, this could be quite late. If staying up until sunset isn’t feasible for your family, we will need to find a place that offers shade.

Have a helper

This isn’t so necessary if you just have the one baby, but if you have a toddler or two, it could be helpful to have an extra pair of helping hands. Since you’re recovering from childbirth, you won’t be able to move or chase toddlers as quickly as you used to.

Bring a swaddle or blanket with you in case of wind

It’s always handy to have an extra blanket in case of cold/wind. This will help baby feel comfortable.

Consider wearing something nursing friendly

If you are nursing, you want to make sure your outfit is easy to nurse in.

As for any session, try on your outfits before the session day

There is nothing more stressful than putting on your outfits and discovering they don’t fit. Please make sure you try on outfits on the day to eliminate any stress on session day.

What is the best age for a newborn photo session?

One thing I love about lifestyle newborn photography is that we can do a session any time in the first month or two. A session with a month old baby wouldn’t really look much different to a session with a 6 day old baby, however each age will have it’s benefits. Here are some reasons why you’ll want your newborn session in the first two weeks:

Baby will be more sleepy

While I don’t think babies have to be sleeping for their newborn session, a sleepy baby normally means a calm baby and a session that moves along quickly.

Baby will have more of the newborn look

Little details of a newborn disappear so quickly such as flakey feet, and the umbilical cord stump. If you want these little details documented, the earlier your session is, the better.

Baby acne hasn’t kicked in

Most babies start developing baby acne around the one month mark. This can be edited out so don’t worry if your baby has baby acne, but it may be something to think about if you’re not sure when you would like your newborn session to take place.

There are also some advantages to having your newborn session a little later:

Mom has had a little longer to recover from the birth

Some moms need a little longer to get ready for a newborn session. By delaying your session until week 5, 6, or even longer you may feel a little more on top of things.

You’ll have more time to figure out outfits

While some people have all the details sorted before baby’s birth, by having a newborn session a little later, you can take your time planning outfits.

Jaundice is not normally an issue

Some babies can look pretty yellow those first few days. An older newborn has normally passed the jaundiced stage.

As you can see, there are advantages to either age so it is really up to you and what works best for your family. I’m happy to chat with you more about the best time for your newborn session.

Should I have a fresh 48 session or an at home newborn session?

Now that photographers are allowed back into hospitals, you may be wondering whether you should have a Fresh 48 session or an at home newborn session. Both options have benefits. Here is what I love about each option:

Fresh 48 Sessions

Fresh 48 sessions take place in the hospital, in the first day or two after baby’s arrival.

1. Little details you’ll find only in the hospital can be captured such as, the hospital bracelets, the plastic bassinet, the little hat.

2. There are so many little things that only a tiny baby has that can be photographed like the umbilical cord stump and flakey feet.

3. You don’t need to do anything special for your session, no cleaning up, no special outfits. I’ll photograph you exactly how you are.

4. Fresh 48 sessions are quick. With all that is going on in the hospital, I can be in and out with all the necessary images in no more than thirty minutes.

5. The time spent in the hospital is so special but fleeting. A photo session is the perfect way to remember what life was like those first few hours of babies life.

In home newborn session:

Newborn lifestyle sessions can take place at your home any time in the first month of baby’s life:

1. By waiting a week or two after baby’s birth, mothers often feel more put together and ready for photos.

2. We can incorporate spaces you’ve put so much time and energy into, such as the nursery.

3. Baby’s are still tiny and will often sleep for the majority of the session so you can still get sleepy images (most of the time), just like a Fresh 48 session.

4. If there are siblings, they can be involved. Pets are also welcome!

5. Everyone is relaxed and comfortable in their own home.

Still can’t decide? How about both! A Fresh 48 + newborn bundle is $1,275.00. A $350 retainer is required to book with the remainder being split into two payments due at the time of the sessions. Any questions? Send me a message.

Is Three Weeks Too Old for a Newborn Session? {Seattle Newborn Photographer}

Your baby has finally arrived and the last few weeks have been a whirlwind full of love, wonder, and exhaustion. The dust is starting to settle and you suddenly realize that your baby is changing by the day and you never booked a newborn session. You might be wondering if it’s too late. Good news! It’s not!

While I always recommend booking your newborn photography session while you’re still pregnant, the good news is that I am almost always able to squeeze families in last minute. I missed out on newborn photos with my oldest, and almost 12 years later, I still regret it. I would hate that to happen to you. The best part about lifestyle newborn photography is that it doesn’t matter if your baby is 3, 4, or even 5 weeks old. I will photograph them the exact same way as I would photograph a 6 day old. You may find that your baby doesn’t sleep as soundly as they did when they were a tiny newborn, however, I’ve found that the majority of older newborns will fall asleep at some point during the session, If you want to increase the odds of your baby sleeping for some sweet sleepy images, I recommend a tight swaddle and a warm house. You may also find that your baby has developed some baby acne around the month old mark. If that’s the case, I can edit it out, or leave it if you prefer it to be an accurate representation of how they looked at the time. Other than that, I will photograph your baby just the same as I would have if you had booked your session a few weeks earlier. If your baby is already here and you’d like to get a newborn session scheduled, please reach out. I would be honored to photograph your family.

When is the Best Time for a Sleepy Newborn Photography Session {Seattle Lifestyle Photographer}

Tips for a Sleepy Newborn

If you’re about to welcome a new little baby into your lives, you may be wondering when the best time to have your newborn session is. I believe that newborns of any age deserve a newborn session, in fact, I often photograph three or four month old babies, the exact same way I photograph week old babies. There is however a golden spot if you’re wanting images of your baby sleeping. I will never guarantee a baby will sleep but we can increase the chances of it by photographing baby in the first two weeks of life. In my 11 years or so of photographing newborns, I have noticed that babies aged between 6-8 days almost always sleep throughout their whole session.

Book your session for as early as possible:

I’m never going to guarantee a sleeping baby. I’m not a posed newborn photographer and an awake baby is just as beautiful as a sleeping baby, however, the earlier your session, the sleepier the baby normally is.

Keep your house nice and warm

Don’t worry, you can turn the heat down once I leave!

Swaddle your baby

I have a magic little swaddle that works wonders and can be used underneath your own blankets. It’s pretty amazing at getting babies off to dreamland quickly.

Make sure baby has a nice, full belly

Whether your breast or bottle feeding. you’ll want to try to get baby’s belly nice and full. Don’t worry, we will take plenty of feeding breaks if baby needs them.

Change diapers, clothes etc before baby drifts off to sleep

If baby falls asleep before they’re in the outfit you want them in for their session, we may end up waking them too soon. Try to have them in their outfit before the feeding and swaddling begin.

If you’re ready to schedule your newborn session, please get in touch. I would love to photograph your family!

How to Celebrate the Whole Family During a Newborn Photography Session {Newborn Photographer Kirkland}

I love photographing all family members during a newborn photography session. While the main focus is always on the newborn baby, I strongly believe that when a baby arrives, all family members have a new role to play and those new roles should be celebrated. A former mom of two becomes a new mom of three. Same goes for the dad. An older sister now has two new little siblings. And the former youngest sibling is now a big sibling for the first time.

Some of my favorite images to take at newborn sessions include:

The big siblings looking at their newborn baby in the crib

This is one of my favorite ways to photograph sibling pictures. This works especially well for older siblings who aren’t quite old enough to hold the baby.

Each parent with all their kids

It’s a huge deal to become a parent of multiple children. Capturing each parent with all their kids, whether it’s two kids or six kids, is a beautiful way to celebrate them and their children.

Siblings all on the main bed together

This is another great image that works particularly well for siblings that aren’t old enough to hold the baby.

Parents together with baby

Whole family images are so important but I always think it’s nice to get one or two images with the parents with just the new baby.

Each parent alone with the new baby

They probably have a ton of images with their oldest alone so this new baby should get that too!

If siblings are old enough, images holding the baby

If there is a bigger age gap and the parents are happy for the siblings to hold the baby, then I love to photograph the newborn in the arms of the parents.

Why You Should Have an In Home Lifestyle Newborn Session {Seattle Newborn Photographer}

Those first few days when you welcome your newborn can be hectic. You’re tired, your older kids are adjusting to having a new little baby in the house, you’re getting to know your new little person, and you’re recovering from birth. The last thing I, as your photographer, want to do is put more stress on you by having you leave your home and come to me for your newborn photo session. Here in Seattle, if you have your baby any time other than summer, it’s probably going to be chilly out so there’s no better way to do your photo session than snuggling up with your little family and staying at home.

Children are more comfortable in their own home

If you have older kids, they’re already adjusting to a new sibling. It’s always best to keep them in the environment they already know and love.

You don’t need to take your new baby out in the cold

No need to bundle your precious little baby up and take them out in bad weather during cold and flu season.

Your home is an extension of yourself

That nursery you’ve spent so much time and energy on, let’s use that as the backdrop to your newborn’s photos.

You don’t even need to put on shoes

I don’t know why this is always such a big selling point for me, but I’m always happiest barefoot and I’m sure you are too!