Let's Prepare!


Newborn Studio Sessions (Royal & Stork)

Preparing for your newborn session helps create a relaxed, enjoyable experience for everyone. A little planning before you arrive allows us to keep your baby comfortable, safe, and sleepy, which leads to beautiful, natural images.


This guide will walk you through simple tips on feeding, clothing, timing, and what to bring so you can arrive feeling confident and ready to enjoy this special milestone. My goal is to make your session as stress-free as possible while capturing timeless memories of your newest little love.

About your session:


First and Foremost:

This session is for YOU, YOUR FAMILY, and YOUR SWEET LITTLE ONE(S)! 

Try to relax and let me do all the work. I will be more than happy to rock, cuddle and love on your new bundle(s). It’s important to note that newborn studio sessions range from 2-3 hours due to the extensive set ups, posing, feeding, changing and soothing of the baby with tork Sessions last about 1.5-2 hours and Royal Sessions last about 2.5-3 hours. 


Session Expectations:

You may have seen a variety of poses and setups in my portfolio, and I absolutely love creating a unique gallery for every family. Please keep in mind that every newborn is different, and each pose is completely baby-led. Some poses may take 10–20 minutes to achieve, depending on how your little one is sleeping, settling, and feeling during the session.

On average, we typically complete 3–6 setups, along with a few timeless black-and-white close-up portraits of your baby at the end of the session.

If you have a favorite pose or setup you've seen in my work, I'd love to know! Please share it with me before your session, and I'll do my best to make it a priority. While I can't guarantee every requested pose, my goal is always to create a beautiful, varied gallery while following your baby's comfort, safety, and pace.


For the STORK SESSION:

Upon arrival, we will briefly go over the format of the session and discuss the color schemes, poses, etc. I suggest leaving all other young ones at home or with a caregiver since the focus is solely on the baby. I will provide 3-6 posed setups of the baby only. This typically includes a basket/bucket/bed, flokati or wrapped pose and of course the tranditional table poses if the baby cooperates.


For the ROYAL SESSION: 

Please make sure to inform the other parent and/or caregiver(s) about the length of time beforehand. Upon arrival, we will briefly go over the format of the session and discuss the color schemes, poses, etc. I normally shoot both family and sibling portraits first so that parents do not spend hours “melting” in the 80+ degrees room. The studio is not quite set up to entertain small children, so having a family member or other parent help with little ones following their poses is key! In addition to the family and sibling portraits, I will provide 3-6 other posed setups of the baby only. This typically includes a basket/bucket/bed, flokati or wrapped pose and of course the tranditional table poses as seen in the picture above.

Serene newborn baby swaddled in a white wrap, sleeping peacefully in a warm natural light setting.

Selecting the Date and Time:


Unless there is a planned induction or c-section, I always wait to book the actual session date once the baby (or babies) arrive. Typically these sessions are scheduled during the morning hours during weekdays. Studio sessions have the best results within 1-3 weeks. Once babies hit 3 weeks, baby acne, instability with sleep patters and cluster feeding tends to start. This does not mean we cannot do your session, but it may result in more wrapped poses.


Please note I do not conduct newborn studio sessions on Saturdays or Sundays unless under certain circumstances.

Sleeping newborn baby wrapped in gray swaddle wearing a knot hat with buttons.

Clothing & Styling Guide


When planning outfits, the key is simple: complement and coordinate—don’t match exactly. Choose a color palette you love and build everyone’s outfits around it so each person looks cohesive without being too “matchy.”

Soft neutrals and muted pastels photograph beautifully and help keep the focus on your family connection. Baby will be wrapped in studio swaddles, and you’re welcome to bring a simple outfit or onesie if you’d like. We can also include some images of baby in just a diaper for a natural, timeless look.


Helpful Tips

  • Start with mom’s outfit—choose something you feel confident and comfortable in, then build the family palette from there.
  • Keep things simple—avoid large patterns, logos, and neon colors so the focus stays on your family.
  • Mix textures (knits, lace, linen, etc.) for added depth and interest.
  • Show a little skin if you’d like—short sleeves, tanks, or off-the-shoulder styles photograph beautifully, especially for skin-to-skin moments.
  • Pay attention to details like clean nails, removed hair ties, and minimal accessories.


For Kids

Please check for temporary tattoos, marker, or chipped nail polish the day before and again before your session.


Most Important

Wear something you feel good in—your comfort and confidence will shine through in your photos.


Need Help?

You’re always welcome to browse Pinterest for inspiration (try “newborn family studio session”). If you’d like extra guidance, feel free to send me photos of your outfit options—I’m happy to help you put everything together!

Close-up of newborn baby feet peeking out of a cream knit wrap.

What to Bring:

  • Extra diapers
  • Wipes
  • Pacifier (even if baby doesn't normally use one—it can be very helpful in soothing during posing)
  • Extra formula/bottles if needed
  • Burp cloths
  • Any sentimental items you'd like included
  • Change of clothes for baby
  • Change of clothes for parents/siblings after portraits are finished
  • Snacks, drinks, and quiet activities for siblings


Close-up of a sleeping newborn baby's tiny hand resting on their belly.

Before the Session:


Preparation for Siblings
  • I absolutely love including siblings in your newborn session! Since little ones often have shorter attention spans, we recommend bringing another adult (such as a grandparent, family member, or friend) who can take them for a walk, to get a snack, or to play once their portraits are finished.
  • Sibling and family photos are typically taken at the beginning of the session so your older children can be done first. Feel free to bring a few quiet activities, books, or snacks to help keep them happy and entertained if they'll be staying at the studio for part of the session. This helps create a more relaxed experience for everyone while allowing us to focus on your newborn afterward.


Feeding
  • Feed baby immediately before arriving or upon arrival.
  • Bring extra bottles if bottle feeding.
  • Nursing moms may want to feed once more during the session.


Keep Baby Awake Before the Session
  • A bath
  • Playtime
  • Changing diaper
  • Gentle interaction for 30–60 minutes beforehand (if possible)


Close-up of newborn baby feet held gently against a white background.

During the Session:


Studio Temperature

To keep your little one cozy and comfortable, the studio is kept warm—typically between 80–85°F. This warm environment helps baby stay relaxed during wrapped and unwrapped poses. We recommend dressing in light layers, as parents may find the studio a bit warm during the session.


Typical Posing Format:

This format is usually followed if baby will allow. At times we may need to modify and change the structure.

  • Family portraits (if applicable)
  • Sibling Portraits (if applicable)
  • Parent portraits (if applicable)
  • Wrapped poses
  • Prop setups
  • Table Poses (without diaper)
  • Black and White Mugshots (baby awake)

Props & Styling:

I provide a variety of wraps, headbands, bonnets/hats, and props for your session, all carefully selected to keep your baby comfortable and beautifully styled. My color palette is focused on soft, neutral, and timeless tones to create classic images that won’t go out of style. If you have any special items you’d like included—such as sentimental blankets or heirlooms—you’re welcome to bring them along, and I'll be happy to incorporate them into your session.


For Parents:

Relax and enjoy this special time with your little one! Newborn sessions are baby-led, so feeding, cuddling, soothing, and diaper changes are all a normal part of the process. Trust that I'll work at your baby's pace to create beautiful images while keeping them safe and comfortable.

Peaceful newborn baby sleeping on a gray blanket with mouth slightly open.

After the Session:


Now it's my turn! After your session, I’ll carefully select and hand-edit the best images from our time together. Each image is thoughtfully retouched while preserving your baby's natural features and the timeless style you see throughout my portfolio.

Your online gallery will be delivered within the turnaround time outlined in your contract. Once your gallery is ready, you'll receive an email with instructions on how to view, select your favorite images and purchase your digital image collection and/or prints.


Thank you again for trusting me to capture such a special season in your family's life.


It is truly an honor, and I can't wait for you to see your beautiful gallery! 

Sleeping newborn baby curled up on a dark gray textured blanket.

Health Policy & Safety:


Health Policy

Family are asked to reschedule if:

  • Baby has a fever or illness.
  • Parents or siblings are sick.
  • Anyone has been exposed to a contagious illness.

Safety First
  • Baby is never forced into a pose.
  • Baby's comfort comes first.
  • Composite images are used when needed.
  • Spotters are used whenever appropriate.
Swaddled newborn baby sleeping in a small metal bed with fur blanket.

What if my baby won't sleep?

Can grandparents join?

What if we arrive late?

Can we request certain poses?

What if my baby has acne or flaky skin?

Can I bring sentimental items?

FAQ

What if my baby won't sleep?

Can grandparents join?

What if we arrive late?

Can we request certain poses?

What if my baby has acne or flaky skin?

Can I bring sentimental items?

That’s completely normal and nothing to worry about. Not all newborns sleep deeply during their session, and I can still capture beautiful images whether baby is awake or drowsy. I always work at your baby’s pace, using soothing, feeding, and comfort breaks as needed.


Even if baby stays more alert, we can still create a variety of gorgeous images—including wrapped poses, detail shots, and sweet awake moments that are just as special and natural. The goal is simply to document your baby as they are in this stage, and I’ll guide everything to make sure we still get beautiful results.

FAQ

What if my baby won't sleep?

Can grandparents join?

What if we arrive late?

Can we request certain poses?

What if my baby has acne or flaky skin?

Can I bring sentimental items?

I absolutely welcome grandparents to join your newborn session—these are such meaningful memories to capture together! If grandparents are participating, we’ll typically plan their photos at the beginning of the session so they can enjoy a shorter visit and leave once their portraits are complete.


Please note that including additional family members can slightly reduce the time available for individual newborn setups, as I'll  balance the session to ensure we capture everyone efficiently while keeping baby comfortable and content. If you’d like extended time or more detailed setups, I’m happy to discuss options for adding additional coverage.

FAQ

What if my baby won't sleep?

Can grandparents join?

What if we arrive late?

Can we request certain poses?

What if my baby has acne or flaky skin?

Can I bring sentimental items?

Newborn sessions are carefully scheduled with plenty of time built in for feeding, soothing, and posing your baby. If you arrive late, we’ll need to continue with the remaining scheduled time, as sessions cannot be extended or adjusted for late arrivals.


To make the most of your session, I recommend arriving a few minutes early so you can settle in without feeling rushed. This helps ensure we have enough time to capture all of the beautiful images planned for your session.

FAQ

What if my baby won't sleep?

Can grandparents join?

What if we arrive late?

Can we request certain poses?

What if my baby has acne or flaky skin?

Can I bring sentimental items?

I’m always happy to hear any ideas you have for your session! That said, newborn posing is very baby-led and depends on your little one’s comfort, sleepiness, and safety at the time of the session. Some poses may not be possible for every baby, and I never force a pose that isn’t working for them.


I’ll gently guide your baby into natural, safe, and flattering positions throughout the session, and we’ll still create a beautiful variety of images. If there are specific styles or setups you love, feel free to share them with me ahead of time so I can incorporate them where possible.

FAQ

What if my baby won't sleep?

Can grandparents join?

What if we arrive late?

Can we request certain poses?

What if my baby has acne or flaky skin?

Can I bring sentimental items?

It’s completely normal for newborns to have baby acne, dry skin, or peeling in the first few weeks of life—please don’t worry at all. This is a very common stage and nothing that will take away from your images.


I use gentle, professional editing to soften temporary skin concerns while still keeping your baby looking natural and true to life. Your little one is perfect just as they are, and we’ll focus on capturing their sweet features and this beautiful stage of life.

FAQ

What if my baby won't sleep?

Can grandparents join?

What if we arrive late?

Can we request certain poses?

What if my baby has acne or flaky skin?

Can I bring sentimental items?

You’re absolutely welcome to bring a few sentimental items to include in your session—these can make your images even more meaningful. I recommend choosing just 1–2 special pieces so we can incorporate them thoughtfully without taking away from the flow of your newborn posing.


This helps us keep the session calm and focused on your baby while still honoring the items that matter most to your family. If you’re unsure what will work best, feel free to share ahead of time a few options and I can help guide you in choosing the best items!

The newborn stage passes so quickly, and it is truly an honor to preserve these first precious days for your family. Please don't stress about perfection—your baby will lead the session, and together we'll create beautiful, timeless memories you'll treasure for years to come. I can't wait to meet your little one!