Sleepy? Hungry?

Most of the images I’ll be shooting work best if the baby is in a deep sleep. To encourage this and have a happy and sleepy baby right when we start the session, either feeding right before or "topping off" before (or as) I arrive is helpful! Again, I don't want you to stress about a perfect schedule or timing along with getting yourselves ready- so if it doesn't work out- it's OK, but if you're able to time it so that baby is full and done eating that would be great! We can always stop to feed if baby needs it and will do whatever it takes to make sure baby is happy!

What to wear?

Keep it simple. Neutrals are great!Throw in a little color if you’d like, but skip the busy patterns. Steer clear of logos and patterns! Compliment each other but do not match. You both will look cohesive on camera when the color palette and wardrobe pieces coordinate, but don’t actually “match.” In fact, I recommend that you avoid thinking about “matching” and instead think about what “fits” together. This will create more visual interest and allow each of your personalities to shine through. I encourage you to think about planning each outfit with “dominant colors”and “accent colors” in mind. A dominant color is the color that you see the most in an outfit, while an accent has a smaller piece of visual real estate. A lot of my newborn session clients like to keep things neutral, clean/simple and timeless. Texture always photographs well, so think lace or crocheted details, layers, a cute top with a cardigan and jeans for mom and a henley tee or button down for dad, etc. Having a plain white onesie and any favorite outfits or wraps/blankets nearby is perfect for baby!

Prepare your house

No need to clean, but just try and make sure the clutter has found its way to a closet in your master bedroom and nursery. I love capturing your new family snuggling up on the bed together! Please make your bed and tidy up your bedroom. Clear nightstands and counters of clutter or distracting elements. Lifestyle sessions are more focused on connection and telling the story of your family but I will bring everything we need with me. Wraps, posing materials etc.. If you're willing and able, it does help to keep the home a bit warmer than usual. No need to crank it up to 80+ degrees, but it will help keep baby calm and cozy if it's warm. I can also bring a small space heater to help with this as well if need be! Areas of the home that make for great lifestyle sessions include (but aren't limited to) the nursery, master bedroom (cuddling on Mom & Dad's bed), family/living room, siblings bedrooms/playroom.

Beautiful, natural light

I ask that you open all of the blinds and curtains in your home prior to my arrival. This enables me to find the best source of natural light in your home, so that I can set up in the best possible location. Nothing flatters like natural light, so I prefer to use it whenever possible. Sessions are normally done mid-morning to late-afternoon when window lighting is as its best. I like to use the nursery too whenever possible! I typically shoot a good portion of the session in the nursery so please have the curtains and shades open to let in lots of natural light. I also love to photograph baby with mom and dad in their bed, on the couch, anywhere comfy and snuggly!

Most importantly remember this is a special day, so try to relax!

I can’t wait to meet your new little nugget! (and most important) Please, please, please do not worry about making your home perfect for me. :) I know what it's like to bring home a new baby and I want you guys to be able to focus on baby especially in these first few weeks! I am a completely judgement free zone, so please, don't stress about that!