TIMING

Week one and two of your baby's life is magic. Of course all of the weeks are magic, but during these first two weeks, newborns are squishy, flexible, sleep more, and are still adjusting to the world outside of the womb. 

Often, their skin is still clear, and their bodies are shaped as if they're still in utero - making it easier to get them into position. In order for us to get organised for a shoot this soon after their birthday, I'll need your due date. In a lot of cases, babies will arrive whenever they want to and I couldn't possibly expect them to abide by our schedule. But, once your baby is born, give me a call as soon as you can and we can lock in a time and date.

If you, understandably, have been spinning too many plates on the roller coaster ride of pre- and post-birth to lock in a date before the second week of your baby's life, don't worry. We can still make it work. Older babies might be a little more resistant to the swaddle, or naps, or being held by someone they don't know, but the success of older newborn shoots are completely dependent on the personality of your little individual. However, If your baby is nine weeks or older, I might tell you to come back to me at four months. Between Nine weeks and four months is a pretty complicated time for a baby's development, as they're still not able to hold their head or sit up by themself, making it hard to get professional photographs of them in that time frame. I would suggest capturing lots of photographs of them at home with a camera and trying your hand at catching them while they're not looking. ;)

WHAT TO EXPECT

If you feel a little nervous, just know that this is totally normal. Most of us feel a little awkward in front of a camera!

During the photoshoot, don't worry if you don't know what to do. It's my job to direct you so you don't feel awkward or uncertain. Most people just automatically look at the camera and smile, but I'll probably tell you to look out the window, or down towards your belly, or up to the sky. I'm sure you have lots of photos in your phone of you looking at the camera and smiling - I want this to be different.

I find that some of the most authentic images come when you're absorbed in whatever it is you're doing, whether that's making your partner laugh, talking to your little babe, or picking flowers. I promise I'll let you know when it's appropriate to look at the camera. Until then, just do your thing and let yourself be however you want to be.

Be assured that if something doesn't look right or if you look uncomfortable, we will adjust. My goal is to capture exactly how you all come together naturally; the true essence of your family. I promise it will be fun and by the end of the session you'll be totally relaxed and having fun. The objective isn’t just to take pretty pictures, but to capture this exciting stage in your life, exactly as it is now. 

HOW TO PREPARE

Expect to snuggle! And, be prepared to be in some of the shots. Now, I know that in your postpartum haze you're probably not feeling like a supermodel, but sometimes lIl ask you to pick your baby up to soothe them, and this is the perfect opportunity to get one or two shots of you together. When shooting outdoors, you relinquish some of your control. We might have a plan in our minds, but mother nature might have an entirely different one altogether. Bring bug spray, sunglasses, and lots of different options for clothing should the weather fluctuate.

I understand that your newborn is not potty trained. If we're shooting in the nude, and your baby poops themselves, please don't stress. Here's the protocol: we'll get them quickly cleaned up, throw them in a new wrap, and just continue on capturing beautiful moments. Your baby is still trying to figure out where they are and what they're doing in this big bright world. Sometimes, they'll get a little upset and need a bit of extra loving. We may have to stop for a little feed, to change a diaper, or to give them a little pep talk before continuing on. But this is all a part of it.

SIBLINGS

If you'd like to capture your little one with their proud new bigger siblings, you'll probably need reinforcements. If your partner or one of your parents is available to come to the shoot, bring them! I like to have as few people as possible on set to try to cultivate a quiet. tranauil space for vour newborn. So, I'll be asking your reinforcements to look after the bigger siblings elsewhere (but close-by) until the end of the shoot, when we'll bring them into the calm baby zone for the final portion of the session.

YOUR PARTNER

Dad should have coordinating colors as well, but let your pieces be the star. White clean shirt with rolled up sleeves looks great. Solid shirts that are grey, white, cream or brown are the best choice. I typical love a black pair of jeans or beige-brown-olive cargo pants on men.

LOCATION

In-home or outdoor

The easiest location for a newborn photoshoot is in the comfort of your home. It doesn't need to be Instagrammable, it doesn't need to be perfect. it just needs to have a window and some natural light. Come as you are, I will make it work. We will most likely shoot in the nursery, master bedroom. Maybe in the living room depending on how the light comes in. Shots can be nice taken in the middle of your living space including a stair case. Photographs taken on the porch or in a green house or sunroom can be very beautiful. Would you be able to send me pictures? Please only when you get the chance, no rush xx.

Outdoor newborn photography is an up-and-coming niche, and it yields some pretty amazing outcomes if you're willing to brave the uncertainty. When considering this option, the variables that we'd need to consider are:

• Weather. Outdoor shots are only possible in warm weather. We don't want your bundle of joy to be so bundled that we can't see who they are.
• Noise. A park sounds lovely until you take into account all of the people making merry and shouting at their barking dogs. We want your babe to be relaxed and sleepy, and too many distractions would make this impossible.
• Bugs. Babies, unfortunately, are mosquito magnets. I would hate to be responsible for your little one getting all itchy and bothered, and for you to lose even more sleep the night of our shoot. So this is one of the downfalls for shooting outside. We'll do what we can :)

SAFETY

The actual most important priority for this whole shoot is your baby's safety. I will never put your newborn in a position that is unsafe, unstable, or uncomfortable. I often do a lot of the posing and positioning, but always do so with the utmost respect and treat each baby as if they were my own. I know that sometimes a lot of photographers can get caught up in wanting to "get the shot," but I will never prioritise the shot over your baby.To help things run smoothly, I would love for you to be an active part of our session. With you sitting right outside the shot, you'll be able to check in and monitor your baby's comfort level. I will regularly touch base with you and let you know what's coming next, discuss how we'll transition to that pose, and narrate what I'm doing as I do it so you always know what's going on.

WHAT TO WEAR

— NEWBORN —

I'd recommend dressing your baby in a front-fastening, cosy sleep-suit just before the shoot so that when we're ready to start, it'll be easy to get them out of it without waking them up. I have everything for you baby from clothes to props so you don’t need to worries about that.

If you, like me, are a sucker for those little belly rolls, chipmunk cheeks, and tiny toes, it might be fun to get a few shots of baby in the nude. Be mindful of bundling your little one up too tightly before the shoot as tight clothes can leave Photoshop-resistant marks on the skin.

If the baby spills his diaper during the session, please know that I have many outfits so we’ll just change him. It’s no big deal! Your babe is the boss!

— MAMA —

For newborn shoots, nude and raw images can be incredibly stunning, but know that I totally understand for not wanting to show your belly. I think these moments of rawness can be so beautiful in its' imperfection. This is definitely where my art is headed toward because it just speaks to me. I still very much love dressed shoots, but I still love to make it very intimate and show skin like show your legs and wear the dress off the shoulder. Naked baby...Here's are a couple of things to consider.

I truly believe that outfits can make a session. I have to believe that you booked with me because you love the natural style that I offer. You, the outfits and the backdrop make it a come together and creates breath taking images. The following tips will help achieve just that. I know this part can be challenging but rest assured that im here to help every step of the way. Once the outfits are settled, the session is frosting and we will have so much fun!

— SIBLINGS —

I have cute little outfits in my client closet and a website list for you to browse and shop. If you, like me, are a sucker for those little belly rolls, chipmunk cheeks, and tiny toes, it might be fun to get a few shots of baby in the nude. Be mindful of bundling your little one up too tightly before the shoot as tight clothes can leave Photoshop-resistant marks on the skin.

— DAD —

Dad should have coordinating colors as well, but let your pieces be the star. White clean shirt with rolled up sleeves looks great. Solid shirts that are grey, white, cream or brown are the best choice. I typical love a black pair of jeans or beige-brown-olive cargo pants on men.

CLIENT CLOSET

In my client closet, I have versatile pieces for every shape and size. Wear something that'll keep you cool in summer, warm in winter, and that'll make you feel like the stunning mumma that you are. You can defenitly bring your own outfits, but please keep in mind that what I offer is a unique experience and gorgeous art for your soul and walls. You can bring a couple outfits so that we can play with different options and combinations, including the ones for your partner.

TIPS

START WITH YOU

I usually recommend for mama to choose her outfit first, and use that as inspiration for the rest of the outfits. Choose dresses that catch light, flow and flatter you. While you may think a dress isn't your "style", I promise you that they photograph beautifully. I also have a client closet with beautiful dresses at you disposal. they add so much depth to your session it's unreal!

UNDERGARMENT

Please be careful of the colors of under garment you decide to wear if you plan to wear it under a dress. I usually recommend, beige or white. Also some dresses require for you to wear silicones on your breasts. (no straps) it looks so much better and there's only so much I can do with photoshop. I also have clients that used big beige plasters. It work really well and it barely shows depending on what dress you wear.

NATURAL STYLE

Go for loose, flowy, textured natural fabrics that will move with you. Be sure to add visual interest with texture and beautiful natural colors like earthy tone and neutrals. Don't put to much thought in the shoes, 99% chances are that I will ask you to walk barefoot :) Please avoir red or any bright colors. Also avoid wearing all dark Colors because you will all blend in together. 

PATERNS

Avoid plaid shirt (chemise carottés), large prints, bright colors, geometric patterns and any large graphics or logos. Also any big watch (apple watch) or items that will distract from your beautiful connections.

DON'T MATCH

The goal is to get the colors, patern and textures right. Avoid being too matchy, matchy - Ideally your outfits will compliment each other and not blend into one another. 

SHOW SKIN

Don't be affraid to wear something that will show off your beautiful neck line, back and you legs! If your husband is up for taking his shirt off, he can! I find it adds so much emotion when you see skin to skin with your loved ones...it's so emotive and just magical. Don't forget to show off your tattoos! You payed a lot of money for those!

ACCESORIES

Don't be afraid to accessorize! If you'd love to bring "stylish hats" or if your son or husband would love to wear a beanie, bring it!! Please keep in mind no logos. **Please no base ball caps. Bring any important family airloom like a ring your grandmother gave you or maybe your daughter has a locket with her brothers photographs inside. Anything that will add value to your beautiful story.

your husbands not all in yet?

Copy and paste the following message and text it to him.

Hey you! I know it sucks to have you pictures taken and that you'd rather be doing something else. I totally get it! I have one like that at home too! I mostly focus on mama and the babies and we'll pop you in here and there! It's just like hanging out with them at home. You can hang them by the feet, put them on you shoulders and tickle them! At no time you're obligated to smile and say cheese...Im all about capturing your family's natural unfolding moments, they're not fake moments! Just hang out with your beautiful wife and kids and if you can do that...You'll be golden! I usually say all of this at the beginning of every session and I instantly see the relief in dad's eyes. They're like "hell yea! I don't need to look at the camera!!?" No you do not! This session means the world to your wife and it's important that she feels your support. Just make her happy! If you feel like you need to drink a beer before coming...go right ahead...hell bring one at the session if you want! I will not judge!! No stress! — Your Photographer

PROCESS

BEFORE YOUR SESSION

A few days before your session, I'll get in touch with you to confirm the meeting point + time. We will then drive to the location we'll shoot at. I'll be in a ruby red gmc terrain. Also, my shooting locations are usually 15-20 minutes away from Grand Falls.

Light differs from a cloudy to a sunny day. Both are very beautiful, but different. If it's cloudy, we will meet 20-30 minutes earlier. The forecast changes quickly sometimes and I want to make sure we have enough time to shoot because it gets dark earlier. If we do, I will let you know on the morning of the shoot.

The remaining balance can be payed in CASH at session.

DURING YOUR SESSION

WHAT TO BRING

For the session, I'd recommend to bring a small bag with water and dry snacks for your babies. Kleenex just in case they need to pee or have a runny nose.

BRIBES

please feel free to bribe your kids with an ice cream after the photoshoot! Whatever works!

PLEASE NO "CHEESE"!

My style is very natural and it's about capturing your natural unfolding moments. Pretend im not there and please don't ask your kids to look at the camera. I will ask them when I feel the time is right.

SOAK IT ALL IN

At the beginning of every session, I explain how the session goes so you know what to expect. We'll walk, relax, and truly disconnect from your busy life. You get to soak it all in and just hang out with your babies . This is your time!

TRUST

For an hour, I need you trust me. Know that Im ready for anything that comes my way. I know sometimes mama's are scared that their babes will not cooperate, but rest assured that some of my most emotive sessions are when they want nothing to do with it.

IT'S AN ADVENTURE!

Please don't be disappointed if they don't behave or if they're pouty. You'll do some consoling and that's okey. They'll want to trow some rocks and play with sticks, we'll pick flowers and walk to distract them, the girls will dance and swish their dresses, you'll snuggle and tell stories. You'll sit and play in the water...and you'll get dirty. Yes dirty! I also plan for more tranquil + intimate moments when the time is right. We plan a meaningful session to create memories that are unique and true to you.

AFTER THE SESSION

The waiting time is usually 4 weeks after our session. I know it's painful to wait, but trust me it'll be worth it :) If you decided to add a video to you shoot it may be a little longer. Please keep in mind that I will not be sending sneak peaks this year. It truly takes me away from concentrating on your session and it also helps me deliver your gallery in a reasonable time frame. I hope you understand! xx

THANK YOU

Bottom line? I want this photoshoot to give you an opportunity to slow down and appreciate your own brilliance.

If you've gotten to the end of this guide and you've got a few questions swirling around in your head that I haven't answered, please message me or pick up the phone and give me a call. My number is 1-506-426-4264. Just let me know you're calling because I don't ever answer my phone. I want you to feel at ease and prepared going into this session.

Your photos are going to be amazing. I can't wait!