First off, congrats on your newest addition!

I am so happy you have decided to capture this special time in your family's story. Your new baby will only be this little for a short, fleeting period of time. These portraits will be something you both cherish for years to come. My goal is to make our time together as comfortable, relaxed & as enjoyable as possible for you & your family. There are a few things you can do before coming in for your session that will help our session go as smoothly as possible. The following instructions are suggestions only. You know your baby best, so some of these instructions may not be possible. However, I have found that these tips work WONDERFULLY to help make the most of our time together for a successful session. I find that lack of preparation can cause the session to be much more difficult and last longer. Please don’t stress if you can not do everything perfectly. Sometimes things don’t go as planned, and I totally understand this is a crazy time for your family! However, willing to alter your schedule just a bit for the day can help make your session a success! Please read through my prep guide & let me know if you have any questions or concerns.

-If possible, try to keep your baby awake the hour before your session to ensure he/she is good & sleepy at session time. This is an important step. Without this, we end up spending the first part of the session trying to get baby asleep. I understand that this is easier said than done & you know your baby best! try giving baby a bath to help stimulate & keep him/her awake. This ensures that baby is good & clean at session time also.

-Make sure your little one has a full belly. I like to use the term “milk drunk, ” meaning your baby eats until he falls into a deep sleep. Please give a full feeding just prior to leaving for the studio. If we need to "top them off" once you arrive, we can do so. If baby is bottle feeding, make sure to pack extra milk/formula. A full baby = a happy, sleepy baby. In order to achieve the sweet curly poses, we need a sleepy, calm baby. I totally understand this may throw off a strict feeding schedule on the day of your session but it can help us get those sweet flexible poses. Please don’t feel rushed during feedings at the studio. There is plenty of time set aside during your session for baby’s needs. It is so important to make sure baby has a full belly to get those sleepy baby poses. A hungry baby will not pose and will remain unsettled during the session.

-Bring a pacifier. We don't always need one, but it can be a big help during our session.

-Please dress baby in loose fitting clothing to ensure there are no marks on baby's skin going into their session. Onesies that open in the front are the best option.

-Breastfeeding mamas- please try to avoid spicy, gas inducing or caffeinated food or drinks at least 24 hours prior to your session.

-The studio will be nice & warm during our session. I come dressed comfortably & recommend you do the same. If you are planning on having a few pictures done with baby, feel free to bring a change of clothes. Expect to be with me for 1-2 hours. The sleepier baby is - the faster we can capture your gorgeous photos.

-During the session, sit back & relax! I wont need much assistance so take advantage of this time to catch up on that book you've been meaning to read or bring a tablet/phone & binge a couple of your favorite Netflix shows. Of course, you can always take the opportunity to kick your feet up & catch a few winks. Don't worry, if I do need help - I'll ask!

-I have a small refrigerator with sodas & water in the studio.

-I recommend having no more than yourself, your spouse/partner & children. Too many people in the studio make for a somewhat challenging creative conditions & can be distracting.

-Poses: Some parents ask if they can request certain poses or shots they have seen on other photography sites or pinterest. Yes, you can request them, and I will make every attempt to get you what you want in terms of poses; however, there are certain poses, that in my opinion, are unsafe and pose harm to the baby. These poses, I will not do. Baby is my number one priority. Some babies are uncomfortable in certain poses, and I will only do what feels comfortable for your baby. My goal is to photograph your beautiful baby and family the way they are. Enjoy your UNIQUE session, and try not to get caught up in re-creating someone else’s family photo session. This session is about YOUR little miracle. YOUR family. Almost always, parents favor the simple, classic poses instead of the photographs with crazy props because they are timeless and will never go out of style.

-MOM & DAD: You are a big part of the show. Photographing the connection between you and your baby is one of my all time favorite things. Just as they encourage in the hospital, skin to skin contact creates the most beautiful images, so refrain from wearing bulky, loose clothing with long sleeves.

-DADS: I ask that you bring a well fitting t-shirt/v-neck, (please avoid the typical white “undershirt”) textured thermal shirts look great, or henley style shirt to wear with a good fitting pair of jeans, or if you prefer, a neutral solid button up. White, grey, black, or tan works well, and looks nice for photos. I suggest removing watches or bracelets to keep the focus on baby.

-MOMS: Don’t know what to wear? I have it covered! My studio has several options in my Client Closet as far as dresses go that you can borrow for your session. Also, pretty tank tops, camisoles, chiffon materials, simple solid color dresses, feminine pretty lacy cover ups look great too! Even a solid color neutral shirt with pretty lace details on the arms or shoulders looks lovely. If you are uncomfortable bearing your arms, stick with a soft simple shirt. Don’t worry about your post partum belly showing. Most photos will be from the elbows up, and your baby will cover most of you. Be sure you have no bright or chipped nail polish, as your hands will make their way into the images. Refrain from wearing lots of jewelry, watches, and big earrings. Wedding rings and simple stud earrings look classic and clean. Keep all colors neutral (white, ivory, black, grey or tan) and design simple.

Rest assured, I aim to photograph using flattering angles and light to bring out the natural beauty in your family. You will look stunning!