preparing for your studio session


Can a newborn photo shoot actually be stress-free? Absolutely! With just a little bit of prep, your baby will be warm, cozy, and ready to snooze through their session. Here is everything you need to know to sit back, relax, and enjoy a seamless studio experience.

Newborn prep tips:


Arrive sleepy & fed. A full belly equals a sleepy, content baby.


Keep baby awake beforehand. 45 to 60 minutes prior to your session is perfect!



Expect a warm studio. I keep the studio toasty to keep your unswaddled baby comfortable and warm! Dress in light, breathable layers so you don't overheat.

Newborn baby in a white onesie peeking out from under a soft gray knit blanket while lying on a cream background.

Baby prep tips (12 weeks+):



Schedule between normal naps. Baby is most likely to be content between their naps (ideally, try to schedule for 30-45 minutes after their wake time!)


Make sure baby is well fed. Full belly = happy baby.


Bring comfort items.  Whether it's a pacifier, stuffed animal, or a bottle... Bring it with you!

Baby girl in a tan knotted bow headband, white ruffle-sleeve top and tan bloomers sitting on a soft white backdrop.

outfits



Your wardrobe sets the tone for your entire studio session. Opt for light neutrals for a bright, airy gallery, dark neutrals for something rich and moody, or mix darks and lights for gorgeous depth and contrast.



A quick note on color: I strongly recommend sticking to neutrals or very soft, muted tones. Vibrant colors tend to bounce off my bright studio lights and cast unnatural color reflections onto your baby’s delicate skin. 




To keep your gallery looking timeless and true-to-life, follow these tips:


Shoot for a neutral/earthy palette. (cream, soft beige, taupe, camel, warm gray, or muted olive pair beautifully with my neutral studio style).


Keep it simple! Soft knits, linen shirts, simple tees, and flowy dresses work best. Avoid bold patterns, logos, and stiff collars.


Texture, Texture, Texture: Visual interest comes from waffle weaves, ribbed knits, and soft fabrics rather than busy graphics.



Go Barefoot. Bare feet (or socks!) look natural and cozy on my studio flooring and furniture!

Sleeping newborn baby wearing a brown bonnet hat, wrapped in a white textured blanket.

What to pack in your bag


  • Extra formula/bottles if bottle-feeding, and burp cloths for stray spit-up incidents.
  • A pacifier, if your baby takes one.
  • A change of clothes for baby and toddlers (if applicable).
  • Props, if any, you'd like to include in our session (I've had parents bring month placards, special blankets and stuffed animals).

Arrival


  • If there is one universal truth about life with an infant, it's that last-minute blowouts happen. Give yourself an extra 15-minute padding so you aren't rushing.
  • If we are shooting at my home studio, just knock on the front door when you pull up and I'll welcome you in!
  • Getting out the door is unironically the hardest part of the entire session. The second you step through my entryway, you can officially relax, take a breath, and let me take over "babysitting" duty while you sit back.
Happy family with young daughter laughing together in bed under cozy blanket in bright white bedroom.
Man in a cream t-shirt and khaki cargo pants gently cradles a newborn baby in a diaper while seated in a bright, minimalist room.
Smiling family of four relaxing together on a white bed with a black metal frame, cozy fur blanket, and exposed brick wall.
Newborn baby with bright eyes lying on a soft beige blanket, wrapped in a knitted taupe throw with tiny hands raised.

What to expect during our session


  • If baby needs to nurse, cuddle, or get a diaper change mid-session, we pause. There is zero rush- the session is entirely built around your baby's cues.
  • Once you arrive, hand the heavy lifting to me! Take a seat, relax, and use this time to rest while I handle swaddles and posing.
  • Most babies take 10-15 minutes to get used to my studio (or maybe it's me... 🤔) and that's totally normal! Expect a bit of fussiness when you first arrive. Prime shots typically begin about halfway through the session, so don't stress if baby isn't happy at first.


SAFETY: I will never force a pose. Every movement is gentle, natural, and prioritized around your baby's safety and comfort.

What i provide


I have a curated collection of soft swaddles, bonnets, bows, and minimal props ready for your baby’s big shoot. Simply choose your preferred color palette in your prep questionnaire, and I’ll have perfectly coordinated setups styled and waiting the moment you walk through the door.


(And don't worry if you forget the diaper bag—I keep basic baby essentials like extra diapers and wipes stocked at all times!)

Extra tips:


  • My home studio is small! Beautiful, but small. We may need to get creative with seating if you bring additional people to your session.
  • I offer dedicated seasonal mini-sessions throughout the year- a wonderful option if you are looking for a shorter (and less expensive!) experience with all the quality of a full portrait session. Because these dates are limited and fill up quickly, keep an eye on my social media pages to snag your spot as soon as booking opens!
Newborn baby with arms raised above head lying awake on a soft white blanket and bedding.

Preparing for a studio session can feel overwhelming (to say the least)! But take a deep breath, trust the process, and let me handle the rest once you walk through the door. Hang in there and get ready for a GORGEOUS gallery!