Welcoming a new baby is one of the most beautiful and fleeting moments of your life, and capturing this time through a newborn session ensures you’ll have memories to cherish forever. As a lifestyle newborn photographer serving Snoqualmie, Seattle, and the Greater Seattle area, my approach is about creating a relaxed, stress-free experience that feels natural and connected. There’s no need for stiff posing or a perfectly curated home—just the real, beautiful moments of your family’s love.
If you’re wondering what to expect, this guide will walk you through everything from booking to receiving your final images so you feel confident and at ease going into your session.
Before Your Newborn Session: Booking & Preparing
Once you’ve decided to book a newborn session, the process is simple and stress-free. Most families book their session during the second trimester to ensure availability, but if you’re further along (or baby is already here), it’s never too late!
Of course, your baby will come on their own timeline. Booking a session does not mean setting the exact date. Instead, it means saving your due date on my calendar. I take a limited number of newborns each month to ensure availability and flexibility for your family. Once baby is here, we will finalize your newborn photo session date based on what’s best for your family.
Access to the Newborn Client Lounge
As soon as you’re booked, you’ll receive access to my Newborn Client Lounge, which is filled with helpful tips, session prep guidance, and answers to common questions. You’ll find advice on:
- What to wear for your session (Check out my Ultimate What to Wear Guide)
- How to prepare your home for an in-home newborn session
- What to expect during the session
In addition to the client lounge, you’ll have access to me (your new photographer friend)! If you still have questions or are feeling unsure about what to wear, or about including your dog, or anything, I will help you.
Setting Your Session Date
Since babies arrive on their own schedule, we won’t set a firm session date until after the baby is born. Once your little one arrives, we’ll choose a date that fits your family’s needs, baby’s needs, and mom’s recovery.
Your session might take place 5 days after birth or a few weeks later—it’s entirely up to what feels best for you. Whether baby is brand new or already starting to show their first sweet expressions, I’ll capture your family in a way that feels natural and connected.
The Day of Your Newborn Session: A Relaxed Experience
Your newborn session is designed to be a calm, enjoyable experience, not something to stress over. There’s no need for a spotless home, and you don’t need to worry about having everything perfect. I promise—your home is already the perfect place for photos.
As a mom of 6, I’ve had my share of newborn days. I expect the pile of tiny baby laundry, the diaper stations around the house, and mama’s water bottles. Trust me, I will ensure these things are out of the frame of your photo.
A Few Tips to Start the Day Off Right
- If you have a dog, let’s chat about how to include them! Whether they’re calmly resting nearby or excited to join, I can help capture that special connection.
- Enjoy a slow morning. Brew a cup of coffee, take a warm shower, and get ready for photos at a relaxed pace.
- Keep calm for your older kids. Kids feel when we are stressed. So talk up how much fun we are going to have.
When I Arrive
Once I arrive at your home, I’ll take a quick peek around to find the best spots for photos. These could include:
- Your master bedroom
- A spare room with beautiful light
- The living room where you snuggle daily
- Baby’s nursery for sentimental shots
If needed, I’ll set up my portable lighting to enhance natural light and ensure your images look their best.
What Happens During the Newborn Session?
I’ll gently guide you into natural poses that feel effortless and showcase your connection.
We’ll chat, laugh, and go with the flow—this is meant to feel easy and enjoyable!
There will be plenty of breaks for baby’s needs—diaper changes, feedings, or outfit swaps.
Siblings can come and go as they feel comfortable, keeping everything relaxed. In fact, this is one of the reasons families love in home newborn sessions.
If grandparents are visiting, we’ll be sure to capture a few sweet moments with them, too.
After Your Newborn Session: Receiving Your Photos
Once your newborn session is complete, I’ll carefully edit your images to bring out their warmth and beauty. Take a peek at my portfolio to get a feel for my clean and natural approach to newborn photography.
When Will You Receive Your Photos?
Your full gallery of images will be ready within 3-4 weeks after your newborn session. You’ll receive a link to view and download your images, allowing you to relive those first precious days. From your gallery, you are able to share with friends and family, order professional prints and products, and select favorites for your album.
Your Custom Album
Once you receive your portrait gallery, you’ll select your favorite images for your included custom album. I’ll design the album with care and have it shipped directly to you, ready to be cherished for years to come. The work is done for you. Just another reason you don’t have to stress about your newborn photo session!
Ready to Book Your Newborn Session?
Your baby’s first days are fleeting, but your newborn session ensures you’ll have beautiful memories to hold onto forever. Whether you’re expecting or your baby is already here, it’s never too late to book.
Reach out today to schedule your session, and let’s create something special together!