FAQ
When is the best time to book my newborn session?
It is best to book your due date as early as possible. To provide each client with the best possible service and give the custom experience each client deserves, I only schedule a limited number of newborn sessions per month. It is always best to book early to ensure availability.
What do I need to bring to my session?
I provide all props, accessories and blankets for your newborn session. There is no need to purchase anything for baby to wear. I have spent years collecting the most beautiful and timeless pieces for you to use during your session that fit appropriately, and add the perfect touch while still keeping the focus where it should be- on your new baby.
I ask that parents bring plenty for baby to eat, as they always tend to eat more during their session. I also strongly recommend a pacifier, as some babies have a hard time self soothing. Even if you don’t use a pacifier at home, it does make a difference in how many images we are able to get for you, and keeps baby happy and content while we transition between poses. As babies do tend to make messes, I suggest bringing an extra shirt if baby happens to go to the bathroom during parent or family images.
Where will our session take place?
All sessions take place in our professional studio located in Sheldon, Iowa.
For family sessions, we will meet outside my studio and I will have you follow me to a location located in or around the Sheldon area.
Who can come to the session?
As the sessions are typically several hours, and because the studio is fairly warm to keep baby comfortable, it is best if only those participating in the session come to the session.
How soon after baby is born should I schedule our session?
I prefer to photograph babies between 5-18 days after birth. This allows mom and baby a few days to recover and get into a good feeding schedule, while still being young and fresh for those sweet and curly newborn poses everyone loves. Once baby is born, it is always best to call right away so we can get your session scheduled in the appropriate time frame.
What should we wear?
As we are designing your session to create beautiful and timeless pieces of art for your home, your clothing should reflect that. Simple, neutral colors in soft tones photograph beautifully and keep the focus on you and your family. Clothing should be simple and not draw attention away from you. Sweaters, maxi dresses, flowy fabrics and lace all photograph beautifully for mom and girls. For men and boys, I love cotton henleys that are soft and easy to move in, or shirts with no collar, as they tend to get in the way and obstruct the face.
For milestone or cake smash sessions, I do have a studio wardrobe available for the little ones.
How long do newborn sessions last?
Newborn sessions last 2-3 hours. This allows plenty of time for snuggling, feeding and to get all those adorable newborn poses, as well as family, parent and sibling images. Milestone and cake smash sessions generally last about an hour.
Do you photograph older babies?
Yes! If you happen to miss the typical window for a newborn session, that’s ok! I have photographed many babies past the two week mark, and still get beautiful and priceless images for their families. In addition to newborns, I also photograph milestone sessions- 6 month sessions, as well as one year/cake smash sessions. Your baby’s first year goes by so fast – each stage should be captured.