Are you considering a newborn session for your little baby? I’m sure you have done your research, looked at different photographers for style, price, location and experience. Or maybe you have only just started wondering about newborn photos and whether its worth the investment. But choosing can be overwhelming, and you might think you don’t know all the information you need, or know what questions to ask. If not… you are in the right place! This post will show you what a session looks like with me so you know what to expect. Yes, because after all… this is a big deal. It is just once in a lifetime that your baby will be in the newborn stage, as much as we wish we could, we can’t send out babies back in time for better photos, and it’s an investment for your family, I get that! So get ready, it’s time to walk through a newborn session with me!
WHERE IT ALL BEGINS (a.k.a. the studio)
My studio is located in Elk Ridge, Utah at the south end of Utah County. Its a beautiful picturesque spot that I call home.
You might already know that newborn sessions are ideally done when the baby is under 3 weeks of age. There are several reasons for this: first, after a few weeks babies are a little harder to settle and things like colic and baby acne can start to flare up. Also, after this stage, the baby’s spine also starts to straighten up, making it harder to capture all the curly squishy poses you have seen in photos. With that being said, I do not turn away older newborns, they deserve lovely photos as well, we will just discuss what expectations you can have depending on your babies age.
“Ok makes sense” – you might be thinking – “but do I really want to get out of the house and spend a couple of hours in a studio so soon after giving birth?” Here’s the good news: as a specialized newborn photographer, my studio is built with moms (and families) in mind: I want to create a fun, warm and relaxing environment like you have created at home. From the fully stocked changing table, to a selection of snacks and drinks available and a sofa for you and dad, to toys for the brothers and sisters… everything has been prepared to give you a stress-free, enjoyable once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The studio is kept a warm, but comfortable, temperature to help keep the baby settled, and it is fully stocked with everything we need for the session, so you don’t need to worry about anything! I will also send a prep guide in advance of your session to hopefully answer any lingering questions you have.
CUTENESS OVERLOAD: LET’S TALK POSES!
If you have had a chance to look at my Facebook Page (link) you have probably seen photos taken with different setups.
Normally, if we are starting with family images, or an awake baby, your session would start with poses like the first and second image. To prepare for this, I will undress the baby down to their diaper and then wrap them up snuggly in a swaddle and get them comfy and settled for the first images. As the session progresses you will see me get different shots from differing angles and distances, using a variety of matching colors, wraps, outfits and props, based on your preferences that will be shared with me in discussion as well as through my newborn questionnaire. At all times, you will see me keeping your baby’s safety in mind, and checking for cues telling me that the baby is comfortable, safe and happy. This allows me to immediately notice if I need to adapt my workflow to your little one’s needs. … and of course, if a top-up feeding is
needed, there is plenty of time to take care of that. This is what we call a “baby-led” session, I will not force a pose or rush your baby. I don’t only rely on my instinct and experience as a mom and in the studio with this, I also train regularly with top photography mentors to make sure I am on top of my game!
WHAT ABOUT PARENTS AND… SIBLINGS?
Your session also includes parents and siblings poses if you desire.
If you want to have family and sibling poses we will start with those at the beginning so that you don’t have to worry about your hair and makeup after an hour or two of relaxing in the studio, it also allows siblings to get their portion done, and then they can leave with dad or grandma and we can continue with the baby images. If it is not possible to take siblings out of the studio, I do have toys, movies, and snacks to help entertain them when their turn is over. Now I know from experience that you might be thinking that you don’t want to be in photos right after delivering a baby.
This is natural and please do not stress about it: first, it is my job to ensure the session is a pleasant and relaxing experience for everyone. Also, these photos really are all about the connection – so there are always ways to show and capture it and create photos that your baby can treasure 20, 30, 40 years from now. A picture of you holding them is probably one of the best gifts you can give them. For example, we could simply involve your hands and arms in an image like the one below, or a closeup cuddle holding your baby in your arms is a beautiful memory.
THE REVEAL! YOUR BABY PHOTOSHOOT GALLERY
Once our session is complete, we’ll arrange a time within the week for you to return to the studio for a personalized viewing and ordering appointment. If an in-studio visit isn’t convenient, we can meet over Zoom to walk you through your beautiful gallery. This is where the photos come to life, and you’ll have time to review a personalized slideshow and explore options for prints, albums, and wall art. Whether you’re dreaming of an album, a gallery wall, or digital keepsakes, I’ll guide you through options that best fit your family’s style and preferences.
LOCATION & STUDIO: YOUR NEWBORN PHOTOSHOOT IN UTAH COUNTY
My studio is located in Elk Ridge, Utah, a picturesque town at the southern end of Utah County. Surrounded by stunning mountain views, the drive to the studio offers a peaceful escape through orchards, winding roads, and often, a glimpse of local wildlife. With a location that’s an easy drive from Payson, Santaquin, Spanish Fork, Springville, and Provo—and less than an hour from Salt Lake City—my studio provides the perfect blend of convenience and charm. You’ll feel the beauty of Utah as soon as you step out of the car, which is just the beginning of your experience.
Conveniently situated about 10 minutes off the I-15 Payson Main Street exit, the studio itself is designed to make you feel at home. Here, you’ll find a comfortable, private setting where every detail is thought out to create a stress-free environment for both you and your baby. From the fully stocked changing table to a selection of refreshments, a cozy sitting area, and a warm temperature kept specifically for your baby’s comfort, the studio is equipped to meet all your needs and create a beautiful experience from start to finish.
THE PERFECT TIMING: WHY BOOK EARLY?
Newborn sessions are ideally done within the first three weeks after birth, when babies are sleepiest and easiest to pose in those adorable curled-up positions. After this period, babies tend to be a little harder to settle, and things like colic and baby acne can start to appear. However, I happily welcome older newborns and can capture beautiful photos at any age. I’m here to discuss what to expect depending on your baby’s age, so don’t worry if you missed that early window!
Ready to learn more about your Newborn Session?
Want to know more about newborn sessions at my studio? Fill out the contact form on my website, and I’ll be in touch to answer any and all of your questions!
