Newborn Notes
Safety & posing
The first and foremost thing that will be considered during the session is the safety of your baby. I do not use props. If your newborn is happiest in your arms, that is likely where he/she will be for the duration of the session. My posing is “baby led”, which means I will not be placing your baby in any unnatural positions.
Timing
Our session is untimed but typically lasts 1.5- 2 hours. There is no pressure to rush. We will have a ton of time to catch the beautiful moments of connection and love. If your little one needs a break, or if you do, we can always just relax and take a few moments to fuel up on snacks or water. There will be time to feed your baby, change diapers, and soothe as needed. I want everyone to feel relaxed and have fun to build beautiful memories together!
Keeping it real
The best sessions are real, raw, and authentic. Feeding your baby (in any way) is fleeting, and should be captured for your memories. If your little one is hungry, feed them and I’ll keep documenting. If your baby is fussy, soothe them, breathe them in, and I’ll keep documenting.
Little ones love skin to skin and they make the most beautiful portraits. Get close to your little one and I'll document how snuggly they are at this age.
Styling
Layering & textures for family members
Try color blocking with different textures and minimal patterns. Example of beautiful textures: silky, ribbed, waffled, knitted. I suggest knitted sweaters, denim pieces, cozy sets, flowy dresses or skirts.
Layering gives depth to your photographs and helps ensure not everyone is matching. I recommend adding a cardigan or small accessory. Variance is important! I do not recommend that everyone be dressed the same.
Avoid clothing with logos and words.
The Newborn
I recommend dressing your baby in something that fits him/her well and snug. Sometimes a simple white onesie is the best option. I use your blankets to swaddle your baby. I recommend a large muslin or stretch swaddle with a simple and soft pattern or a solid colour.
Make time for yourself before your session
Joy and confidence shines through when we take the time we need to feel good about ourselves. Make sure you schedule in the time you need before the session to get ready, and your focus will shift to being about making memories with your family.
Colour pallet suggestions
Don’t be afraid of colour! It is beautiful when family members are dressed in different colours that compliment each other (use those below as a guide) as opposed to being dressed the exact same. Each person can wear 2-3 colours from the chosen pallet. 1-2 family members can wear soft and discrete patterns that match the colour pallet. Avoid very bright, flashy, neon colours (notice the colours below are mostly earthy tones, even the bright oranges and pinks are earthy). Avoid clothing with words or logos.
during the session
Follow the Light
When I arrive to your home, I will ask you for a quick tour around the house to find the ideal light. I will place you in order to get the best dynamic lighting and oftentimes that means shifting slightly, rearranging some furniture, or having me click in circles around you. I always follow the light so we will move from place to place to ensure that the lighting enhances the moment and contributes to the overall emotion and connections of the photographs.
Circle of Connection
My work is grounded in connection and it is the one true way to elicit authentic and emotive photographs. The connection comes from you and your family- which means the closer you are physically and emotionally, the better your photos will be. Cuddle with your children or spouse, keep your eyes on the ones you love and not on my lens, and play with your children in the way that you normally do. I will remind everyone to get closer and keep in contact, but it’s always best that everyone participating knows that this is a full on snuggle session.
Feeding
Whether you breast feed or bottle feed, I believe that feeding is one of the most beautiful ways we care for and connect with our newborns. If your little one is hungry, feed them. I will continue documenting your family's story.
Love on one another and keep each other as close as can be.
Your love and connection is the art.
