Newborn Session FAQs
Welcoming a new baby comes with so many questions, and I'm here to make your newborn photography experience as easy and stress-free as possible. Whether you're wondering how to prepare, what to expect, or what to bring, I've answered some of the most common questions below. My goal is to create a relaxed, baby-led experience where you can simply enjoy this special season while I preserve these once-in-a-lifetime memories for your family.
When should I book my newborn session?Booking your newborn session can be done at any point during your pregnancy, or even right after. The best plan is to go ahead and put your due date on my calendar so we know that we’re expecting a session. After baby is born we can make a firm date and time for our session. If you’ve already had your baby, reaching out as soon as possible is best so that we can get you in quickly, as the first 2 weeks of your babies life are the sleepiest for posing.
When is the best time to photograph my newborn?The best time to photograph your newborn is within the first 2 weeks after birth. This is when they are the sleepiest and that’s what we want for those posed photos of baby. While we can still photograph older babies, we may be a little more limited in how they want to be posed and positioned.
When is the best time to photograph my newborn?If you’ve already had your baby, reaching out as soon as possible is best so that we can get you in quickly, as the first 2 weeks of your babies life are the sleepiest for posing.
Do you photograph premature babies?Every baby should have the opportunity to be photographed in the newborn stage and premature babies are no different. I have photographed lots of premature babies after they have gotten discharged from the hospital. While they may be older than the suggested two weeks, we work with what life gives us, and if that means waiting until nap time, or getting cute photos of them awake, we can make that happen. With premature babies we handle with care and we can work around any accommodations they may need.
Can I book my session before my baby is born?Absolutely! I highly recommend booking your newborn session before baby is born. We can discuss the session type you’d like and then I can send you a booking link where you can pay your retainer fee to secure your session on my calendar. For the session date I put your baby’s due date and then after your baby is born we find a firm date and time for your newborn session.
Preparing for the Session
How should I prepare my baby for the session?Don't worry—you don't need to bring much! Simply arrive with your baby well-fed and dressed in a zip-up or button-up sleeper. This makes it easy to undress them without pulling clothing over their head, helping keep them calm and sleepy for the session.
I provide all of the wraps, blankets, headbands, bonnets, hats, baskets, and other props you'll see in your newborn gallery, so there's no need to bring any special outfits or accessories unless there's a sentimental item you'd like to include.
The goal is for you to relax while I take care of the details and create beautiful, timeless images of your newest little love.
Should I feed my baby before we arrive?Yes, I recommend feeding baby before arriving so that their tummies have time to settle. If you are coming from more than an hour away, I may have you top off your little one if they are acting like they need a little more.
I am a baby led photographer, so if they need to take a break and eat, then that’s what we do. We want to keep baby happy and safe.
What should parents wear for their newborn session?Soft, neutral colors photograph beautifully and help keep the focus on your family's connection and your new baby. Creams, whites, beiges, soft grays, muted blues, and earthy tones all create a timeless look that won't distract from your images.
I recommend choosing simple, comfortable clothing without large logos, busy patterns, or bright neon colors. Dresses with soft textures photograph beautifully for moms, while dads look great in a neutral button-up, henley, or solid-colored t-shirt or sweater.
Most importantly, wear something you feel comfortable and confident in. Timeless, neutral clothing allows your photos to stay classic for years to come.
Can siblings be included in our newborn session?Absolutely! Welcoming a new baby is a special milestone for the entire family, and I love capturing the excitement and love between siblings. Whether they're proudly showing off their new little brother or sister, giving gentle snuggles, or simply sharing a sweet moment together, these images often become some of the most treasured from your session.
We'll begin with sibling and family portraits while everyone is fresh and happy, then focus on individual newborn photos. My goal is to make the experience fun, relaxed, and stress-free for everyone—especially big brothers and big sisters!
Can grandparents be included in our newborn session?While newborn sessions are typically focused on your immediate family, I'd be happy to discuss including grandparents! Welcoming a new baby is a special moment for the entire family, and those generations together can make for incredibly meaningful photographs.
If you'd like grandparents to participate, I offer this as a small add-on to your newborn session. Just let me know when you book your session so we can discuss the details and make sure we allow enough time to capture everyone beautifully.
During the Session
What should I bring to our newborn session?You won't need to bring much! I provide all of the wraps, blankets, outfits, headbands, bonnets, hats, and props needed for your newborn session, so everything is ready for you when you arrive.
The only things I recommend bringing are:
Extra bottles if your baby is bottle-fed
Diapers and wipes
A pacifier (even if your baby doesn't use one regularly, it can be helpful for soothing during the session)
Any sentimental item you'd like included, such as a special blanket, heirloom, or stuffed animal
My goal is to make your session as easy and stress-free as possible, so you can relax while I take care of the rest!
How long does a newborn session last?Every baby is different, so newborn sessions are never rushed. Most sessions last anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, depending on the type of session and your baby's needs.
A wrapped newborn-only session is typically on the shorter end, while sessions that include parents, siblings, or family portraits usually take a bit longer. We also build in plenty of time for feedings, diaper changes, soothing, and cuddles to keep your baby comfortable and happy throughout the session.
My goal is to work at your baby's pace, creating a calm, relaxed experience while capturing beautiful, timeless images you'll treasure for years to come.
What if my baby won't sleep during their newborn session?Don't worry—it happens more often than you might think! While I have plenty of tricks to help soothe sleepy newborns, some babies are simply too curious and don't want to miss a thing.
The good news is that we can still create beautiful images, even if your little one is awake. Those bright eyes and curious expressions can make for some incredibly sweet and memorable photos.
If your baby is especially alert, we'll likely focus on wrapped poses, which help keep them comfortable and secure. Unwrapped posed images require babies to be much sleepier since they tend to move around more, and your baby's safety will always be my top priority.
No matter what your baby decides to do that day, I'll work with their personality and comfort level to create a beautiful gallery you'll love. Every newborn session is unique, and some of my favorite images have come from babies who wanted to stay awake and check everything out!
Style & Experience
Can I request specific poses or colors?Absolutely! I love incorporating your favorite colors, style preferences, or a specific pose if you have one in mind. Before your session, we'll discuss the look you're hoping for so I can personalize your newborn photos to fit your vision.
While I'll always do my best to accommodate your requests, your baby's comfort and safety come first. Some poses depend on your baby's flexibility, sleepiness, and willingness to settle, so I'll always follow your baby's cues and choose the safest options during your session.
Can we include sentimental items?Absolutely! I love incorporating meaningful items into your newborn session. Whether it's a handmade blanket, a special stuffed animal, a family heirloom, military memorabilia, a wedding veil, or another treasured keepsake, I'd be happy to include it whenever possible.
These personal touches help tell your family's story and make your images even more meaningful. Just let me know ahead of time if there's something special you'd like to bring, and I'll plan a setup that beautifully incorporates it into your session.
Do you photograph lifestyle newborn sessions at home?Yes! I absolutely offer in-home lifestyle newborn sessions, and they're a wonderful option for families who want a more relaxed, natural experience.
These sessions take place in the comfort of your own home, where we can capture genuine moments with your family, your baby's nursery, and the home where you welcomed your little one. Those spaces often become some of the most meaningful memories to look back on years later.
In-home newborn sessions are also a great choice if you'd rather skip packing up the baby and traveling to the studio. We'll work at your family's pace while creating beautiful, heartfelt images that tell the story of this special season of life.
After the Session
That's a very common question, and it's usually an easy fix! Mild jaundice is very common in newborns, and it's something I see regularly.
During the editing process, I carefully adjust skin tones using professional color correction techniques to balance the yellow tones and create a more natural, true-to-life complexion that still looks like your baby. My understanding of color theory allows me to make these adjustments while keeping your little one's skin looking soft, beautiful, and natural.
If your baby has more significant jaundice or any medical concerns, I always recommend following your pediatrician's guidance first. Your baby's health and well-being will always come before photos.
Can siblings be included in our newborn session?Absolutely! Welcoming a new baby is a special milestone for the entire family, and I love capturing the excitement and love between siblings. Whether they're proudly showing off their new little brother or sister, giving gentle snuggles, or simply sharing a sweet moment together, these images often become some of the most treasured from your session.
We'll begin with sibling and family portraits while everyone is fresh and happy, then focus on individual newborn photos. My goal is to make the experience fun, relaxed, and stress-free for everyone—especially big brothers and big sisters!
What if my baby cries the entire session?First, don't stress! Crying is completely normal, and newborn sessions are designed with plenty of time for feeding, cuddling, rocking, diaper changes, and comforting your little one. I never expect babies to be "perfect."
In the rare event that your baby just isn't able to settle—perhaps they're not feeling well, have an upset tummy, or simply need a different day—we can absolutely reschedule your session. My goal is for both you and your baby to have a relaxed, enjoyable experience, and sometimes the best solution is to try again another day.
Thankfully, this is very uncommon. I have a lot of patience and experience working with newborns, and most babies simply need a little extra time to get comfortable. We'll always follow your baby's lead and do everything we can to create beautiful images while keeping them safe, happy, and comfortable.
What safety measures do you take during newborn sessions?Your baby's safety is my highest priority. I have completed multiple newborn photography education courses—both in person and online—to ensure I use safe handling techniques, proper posing practices, and baby-led workflows throughout every session.
I have also invested in professional wrapping aids and newborn posing equipment that help support your baby safely and comfortably during wrapped poses and styled setups. Every pose is done with your baby's comfort and well-being in mind, and I never force a baby into a position they don't naturally settle into.
Throughout the session, I carefully watch your baby's cues and adjust as needed for feeding, soothing, diaper changes, or breaks. Every newborn is different, and my approach is always patient, gentle, and focused on creating beautiful images while maintaining the highest standard of safety.
What style of newborn photography do you offer?I offer a variety of newborn photography styles so you can choose the session that best fits your family and the memories you want to preserve.
Whether you're looking for:
Family newborn photography – Parents, siblings, and baby together.
Wrapped newborn session – Baby only; no need to coordinate outfits or get the whole family ready.
Posed newborn photography – Timeless, artistic portraits of your little one.
In-home newborn sessions – A relaxed lifestyle session in the comfort of your own home.
I'll tailor your session to your preferences while always keeping your baby's comfort and safety as the top priority.
What if my home isn't "Pinterest perfect?"Don't worry—I live in a real home too! Your house doesn't have to look like it belongs in a magazine to create beautiful newborn photos.
I'm experienced at working with all kinds of homes and know how to use the best natural light, photograph from flattering angles, and focus on the spaces that matter most. Whether it's the nursery, the master bedroom, or a cozy spot by a window, I'll create images that highlight your family—not the clutter.
Remember, these photos are about documenting the love and memories of bringing your baby home, not about having a perfectly decorated house. I promise your home is more than enough.
How many images will we receive from our newborn session?The number of images you receive depends on the type of newborn session you choose.
Family Newborn Sessions: All edited images are included with your package, which is typically 25–30 color images. I also include a black and white version of each image for you to download.
Wrapped Newborn Sessions: This package includes approximately 15 edited color images, along with the same images in black and white for download.
Can we purchase additional images?There's no need! All of the best edited images from your session are included with your package. You'll receive your complete gallery in both color and black & white, so you don't have to choose favorites or purchase additional digital images.
What if my baby has baby acne or flaky skin?Don't worry—it's completely normal! Most newborns have baby acne, flaky skin, redness, or other temporary skin changes during their first few weeks of life.
As a professional newborn photographer, I carefully hand-edit each image using specialized retouching techniques to soften these temporary skin conditions while keeping your baby's natural features and texture intact. The goal is to give your little one that beautiful newborn glow without making the images look overly edited or unrealistic.
Your baby is perfect just the way they are, and I'll make sure your final gallery reflects that while gently minimizing those temporary newborn skin changes.
My toddler doesn't sit still. Can siblings still be included?Of course! Toddlers are wonderfully unpredictable—and honestly, a little chaos is my specialty. As a mom of two, I completely understand this stage of life, and I photograph toddlers with their new baby siblings all the time.
I have lots of little tricks to keep them engaged, like letting them "help" with the baby, taking sibling photos first while their attention is fresh, and even using a few strategically placed snacks when needed. I never expect toddlers to sit perfectly still or smile on command.
The goal isn't perfection—it's capturing the genuine love, curiosity, and excitement they have for their new little brother or sister. Those authentic moments often become the sweetest memories from the entire session.
Booking & Timing
Do you allow breaks for feeding and diaper changes?Absolutely! We build in plenty of time for feedings, diaper changes, soothing, and cuddles to keep your baby comfortable and happy throughout the session.
My goal is to work at your baby's pace, creating a calm, relaxed experience while capturing beautiful, timeless images you'll treasure for years to come.
Is your studio warm enough for newborn photos?Yes! My studio is kept nice and warm during newborn sessions to help your baby stay cozy and comfortable, especially for those adorable wrapped and unwrapped portraits. Newborns can't regulate their body temperature as well as adults, so creating a warm environment helps them relax and, often, sleep more soundly.
If you're participating in family photos, you may feel a little warm—and that's completely normal! I recommend dressing in light, comfortable clothing, and we can always take short breaks if needed.
Your baby's comfort and safety are my top priorities, and I make sure the studio is prepared so everyone has the best experience possible.
Is your studio warm enough for newborn photos?Yes! Every newborn session includes gentle, natural posing that is always done with your baby's comfort and safety as the top priority. I'll carefully guide your baby into cozy, baby-led poses that photograph beautifully while never forcing them into a position they're uncomfortable with.
Some babies are happy to curl up for a variety of poses, while others prefer to stay wrapped or in simpler positions. I always follow your baby's cues and adjust the session based on what they're comfortable with.
Do you provide wraps, blankets, headbands, and props?Yes! I provide everything needed for your newborn session, including wraps, blankets, outfits, headbands, bonnets, hats, baskets, and a carefully curated collection of beautiful props.
I've invested heavily in high-quality pieces from professional newborn photography vendors, with thoughtfully coordinated color palettes and matching sets that create timeless, cohesive images. Every item has been selected to photograph beautifully and keep the focus on your precious new baby.
All you have to do is bring your little one—I’ll take care of the rest!
Can we bring our family pet?Yes! I know pets are part of the family, and I'd love to include them whenever possible. That said, I typically recommend including pets during in-home newborn sessions rather than studio sessions.
Pets tend to be much more relaxed and comfortable in their own environment, especially with a brand-new baby. After we've captured a few special family photos, they can go back to relaxing at home while we finish the rest of the session. Bringing them into an unfamiliar studio with new sights, smells, and a new baby can sometimes be a little overwhelming for them.
An in-home session is usually the easiest, safest, and most enjoyable option for both your pet and your family.
Can we order prints and albums?Yes! After your session, you'll have the option to order professional-quality prints, wall art, canvases, and custom heirloom albums directly through your online gallery.
If you'd like help designing the perfect album or choosing artwork for your home, I'd be more than happy to guide you through the process. These beautiful keepsakes are designed to preserve your family's memories for generations to come.
When will we receive our gallery?Your fully edited gallery will be delivered within 2 weeks of your session, though I often finish them sooner! Every image is carefully hand-edited to ensure you receive a beautiful, polished gallery you'll treasure for years to come.
Once your gallery is ready, you'll receive an online gallery where you can easily view, download, share, and order professional prints.
Common Parent Concerns
What if my baby has jaundice during their newborn session?My baby hates being swaddled. Can we still have beautiful photos?Absolutely! Professional newborn photographers use specialized wrapping techniques that are designed with your baby's comfort and safety in mind. While many parents tell me their baby doesn't like being swaddled, I often find that once they're snugly and securely wrapped, they quickly relax. The gentle, cozy feeling is similar to the comfort of being in the womb.
Every baby is unique, though, and I'll always follow your little one's cues. If your baby truly isn't happy being wrapped, we'll simply adjust the session and choose poses that keep them comfortable while still creating beautiful, timeless images.
My goal is never to force a pose or a wrap—it's to create a calm, enjoyable experience that results in a gallery you'll love.
I just had a baby and don't feel camera-ready. Should I still be in the photos?Yes—if you're up for it, I truly encourage you to be in the photos.
I completely understand that the postpartum season can feel overwhelming, and many moms tell me they don't feel like themselves yet. But I promise, years from now, your baby won't notice if your hair was perfect or if you were carrying a few extra pounds. They'll simply treasure having photographs with the person who loved them from the very beginning.
I'll gently guide you into flattering poses, use beautiful light, and capture the quiet moments of connection between you and your baby. The focus isn't on perfection—it's on documenting this incredible chapter of your family's story.
That said, I also understand that every mom's recovery is different. If you're truly not feeling up to being in front of the camera, that's completely okay. We can absolutely do a baby-only wrapped newborn session, allowing you to preserve these precious newborn memories without the added stress of getting yourself and the whole family ready.
Whatever you choose, my goal is to create a session that feels comfortable, relaxed, and right for your family.
Where does the session take place?Most newborn sessions take place in my cozy home studio in Blue, Texas, conveniently located about halfway between Lexington and Elgin.
Having a dedicated home studio allows me to keep all of my professionally curated wraps, props, outfits, and accessories ready for your session, so everything you need is right at my fingertips.
It also helps me keep my overhead costs low by eliminating expensive studio rental fees. That means I can offer a high-quality newborn photography experience while keeping my pricing affordable for families.
If you prefer to stay home during those first few weeks, I also offer in-home lifestyle newborn sessions, bringing the experience to you while capturing your family in the place where your newest memories are being made.
Let’s create something meaningful together.Ready to Capture These First Precious Days?
Your baby's newborn stage passes in the blink of an eye, but the memories don't have to. Whether you're ready to reserve your session or would like to see more of my work, I'd love to help you preserve this incredible chapter of your family's story.
Browse my Newborn Portfolio to see recent sessions and get inspired, or Book Your Newborn Session to reserve your spot on my calendar. I can't wait to meet you and your newest little love!