I photograph babies all the time, but I know not everyone is so lucky. One of the most important things to me is that clients know what to expect from working with me and what will happen during their session. I’m always happy to answer questions, but I thought I’d take a moment to answer some of the most common questions I get about newborn sessions:
When should I schedule a newborn session?
I recommend booking your newborn session early in your pregnancy, preferably in your second trimester. Once you book your session I make sure to leave room on my calendar around your due date, and once baby arrives we schedule the exact date and time for your session from there. Newborn sessions are scheduled to begin in the morning, when the light in the studio is the best and when babies are happiest. I accept a limited number of sessions each month, so my calendar often fills months in advance. I accept last minute sessions as I can, but that is rare, so your best option is always to secure your session early to ensure availability.
Who can I can include in my newborn session?
Immediate family members - parents and siblings - are welcome and encouraged during newborn sessions. I love photographing the entire family together! Please remember that extended family members are not permitted during studio sessions.
What if I don’t want to be in the photos?
If you’re hesitant about being in the images yourself, I encourage you to re-visit your reasons why. Images with your babies are so important, not just for ourselves, but for our children as well. It’s an opportunity to capture all of the connection and relationships within the family from the very beginning. You’re coming to the studio anyway, you might as well stay to capture images of yourself while you’re there. Plus, that time holding your baby is often comforting for you baby as well, so your session will go more smoothly.
What should I wear?
The studio wardrobe is available to all mothers for studio sessions. Most moms choose to wear pieces from the studio wardrobe for their newborn session. Not only is it convenient, but each piece is carefully selected to flatter moms and photograph beautifully. While I do recommend the studio wardrobe over anything else, if you prefer to wear something of your own I provide styling information for all clients for sessions.
How should I do my hair and makeup?
Everyone has a personal look that they prefer, and I always recommend building on that for your session. The most important thing is that when you reflect back on an image of yourself that you will recognize it for years to come. Some moms choose to wear very little (or no) makeup, while others work with a professional hair and makeup artist before their session. No matter how you approach your look, I recommend natural makeup and soft curls for your hair - without bold colors or trendy applications.
What do I need to bring with me?
The studio has everything needed for baby for the session, so you only need to bring a few things with you. I recommend bringing your standard diaper bag, a couple snacks for yourself and any siblings, an extra baby bottle if you are pumping or formula feeding, and a pacifier.
What should I do with my photos?
By far the most popular artwork option for newborn session is the Heirloom Album. It’s a perfect option for keeping your images safe in one place, where you can look back on them all together. Children love to see themselves in books. As your children get older, they’ll be able to take out an album and flip through its pages on their own, looking back on images from not so long ago.
Kate Juliet Photography specializes in natural maternity, newborn, baby, and family portraiture in the Washington DC and Northern VA area.
All studio sessions include access to the studio wardrobe for mothers and babies to borrow clothing for your session.
Contact me to begin planning your custom portrait experience.