When is the best time for newborn photos?

The best time for newborn photos is in the very first couple of weeks after the baby is born. You will find most photographers prefer within the first 2 weeks This is the optimal time for photographing newborns is between 5 and 14 days as they are the most sleepy and most flexible during this time. Usually newborn acne and hair loss have not occurred yet and their coloring has stabilized a bit by that point. However, we understand life happens. Ive done newborns up to 5 weeks successfully and Ive had 7 day olds that have been fussy. It really depends on the chords temperament. But newborns change so incredibly fast so you want to get in as soon as possible.

How long have you been photographing children?

I started LWP in 2011. It was a labor of love. At this point I have over 10 years of experience with thousands of sessions under my belt. And I havent gotten bored yet 😉 Prior to LWP, I was a vision and play therapist working with special needs children. Needless to say children are my passion and I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.

What is a “Blanket” shot vs. Prop shot?

Blanket shots are where the baby is posed on a mattress draped with a stretched blanket so it looks like a solid backdrop. These are the most comfortable shots for baby and provide the most variety. You can do several poses on one blanket and receive several angles of each pose.

Prop shots are where the baby is placed in a basket, bucket, on a chair, etc. These can be actual physical props I have in the studio. Or they can be digital backdrops where I take a photo of baby on a comfortable bean bag, and then transfer them in photoshop to a digital backdrop.

When is the best time for maternity photos

The best time for maternity photos is usually between 32-36 weeks. You want to have a big enough bump but you dont want to be so uncomfortable that it is difficult for you to maneuver. And you dont want to run the risk of going into labor prior to your session!

What is a print release?

A print release is basically a document that allows you to make prints, including on various material(s) of the images they have received from you, the photographer. You will receive digital JPG photos from your session and you will have a print release that allows you to print them as you see fit. We do recommend, when printing larger than 11×14, to do so through us. But it is not required.

Do you have samples of galleries you have delivered?

YES! This is a great question and something you should be asking every photographer. When you’re looking at a portfolio for an artist or photographer, they are choosing the best of the best. But its important to know what the galleries being delivered look like. You can find a link to sample galleries {here}.

What do you mean by “poses”?

If there is one thing I am not, it is a lifestyle photographer. I wish i was! But its genuinely something Im not great at. I do have great recommendations though if thats what you’re looking for! After 10 years Ive developed a pretty good workflow with my posing. I know which poses are easier if a baby isnt as settled, which poses are harder for breech babies, which poses work when baby is awake, etc. Each photog has their own terminology for their poses but here are some general poses I am to get each newborn session.

What safety precautions do you take during your sessions?

For newborn sessions, blankets and outfits are washed after each use. Props, equipment and furniture are wiped down with disinfectant. Anything that can’t be wiped down is sprayed with Lysol. I also set up a UV sterilization light when I leave that stays on for an hour and sanitizes any surface within a 10 foot radius. Anything that can’t be sprayed down or washed like the fur rug and fluffy stuffers are placed within range of the light.

If you prefer me to wear a mask during your child’s session, please feel free to ask. I have no problem doing so at all. I do always wear a mask during newborn sessions due to being in such close proximity to your newborn and I sanitize frequently throughout the session.

How long does it take to get my photos?

This depends on the session and how busy the season is. Generally speaking, turnaround time is between 2 and 4 weeks for regular sessions. Holiday sessions usually have a 1-2 week turnaround time.

I missed the newborn window. Can I still get photos?

YES! If there is anything that covid taught me, its that you can work with babies of any age. Will I be able to get a froggy pose with a 5 or 6 week old? Well… probably not. BUT you can still get some pretty amazing photos of your older newborn. Below are a few examples of babies I have done that were on the older side. The best part of older babies is the EYE contact and little smiles!

Can you come to us?

At this time, sessions are done in studio. Unless you are doing a on location family or milestone session, most sessions are done in my studio. While this may seem inconvenient in the first couple of weeks of hectic newborn life, I encourage you to read {this} to see why!