Lifestyle Newborn Sessions

Newborn sessions in the comfort of your own home.

 

Welcome!

First of all, CONGRATULATIONS!! You are having a baby! That tiny being will barrel into your lives, bringing with it immense, overwhelming, completely consuming and immediate love. As a mother, I know that there is absolutely nothing like the love we have for our children. It’s intense and amazing.

Thank you for finding your way here. No matter how you found me, I’m so glad grateful for the chance to connect with you. Finding a photographer you resonate with, particularly when you’re bring a new life into this world, is a journey worth taking and I am so glad you found something in my work that sparked a little light within you. Photography is my passion and I would love to be able to showcase you and your loved ones in hopes of providing you joy when you receive your final images, freezing the moments you hope to preserve.

This guide is here to help you get to know me a little more and understand what the experience of working with me is like, specific to lifestyle newborn sessions. In viewing this guide, I hope you feel that little spark shine brighter as you read about how incredible your experience has the potential to be. I want to be sure we have the same vision for your session so you are left with both beautiful memories and timeless images that you will forever cherish. If you have any questions, please reach out! I want you to be thrilled with your MGP experience, images, and forever-captured memories.

Let’s talk about why I love lifestyle newborn sessions. Because I really love them. They feel so natural and real. Taking place in your own home, there is a higher comfort level between family members and the authentic, real moments come to light so easily. I worked several years as an RN in labor and delivery/postpartum and absolutely love that newborn period. Being able to witness the immediate love and connection that comes after a child is born is truly an honor, and I hold that time spent with new families so close to my heart. Now, having two rambunctious boys myself, I’ve learned to really cherish the little moments with them, and as I watch them grow too quickly, I look back on those moments fondly and happily. The newborn days go by so quickly, lost in sleep deprivation and overwhelming love, and it is so important to remember these times.

When my youngest was born, I debated whether or not to hire a photographer for newborn photos, unsure if I wanted to invest the money. I ultimately decided it would be worth it, and my gosh, it so was! The images from those short hours with the photographer are treasured and still hang on my walls over 5 years later. So yes, I totally understand that this is truly an investment, but I also know from personal experience that you can’t get that time back.

For all the information about me and why I’m here with you, be sure to check out my about me page.

 

What is a lifestyle newborn session?

Often times when people think of a newborn session they imagine newborns sleeping soundly, wrapped up, and posed with props. While that style is absolutely beautiful, lifestyle sessions are a bit different. They are natural, involve the whole family, and really focus on your connections with this new little life. Lifestyle newborn sessions take place in your home are laid-back, relaxed, and full of snuggles and touch. Rather than focusing on poses, I capture the family’s natural connection to each other where they are most comfortable - their own home.

 
 

What to Expect

The session will capture the moments each family member shares with the baby, as well as the family all together. If siblings are involved, I take my cues from them and photograph them as they show interest and encourage their involvement throughout the session. I also take my lead from the baby and don’t rush anything; allowing baby to be fed, changed, and held as needed. When the baby is calm and/or sleepy, I will photograph the baby alone, taking photos of him/her swaddled or undressed, capturing tiny details, posed only in ways you would find them naturally, without props. However, I welcome you to incorporate any special blankets, family heirlooms, etc into your session. I do bring a handful of muslin swaddle blankets to use, if desired, as well.

As for where in your home you can expect the session to take place, most commonly, the photos will be taken in the master bedroom, nursery, and/or living room. When I arrive at your home, I’ll take a quick look around to look at the light throughout. Since I only use natural light for my sessions, this is the most important factor. However, even if your home doesn’t get much natural light, I promise you it won’t be a problem! I truly love low-light sessions. You also don’t need to worry about having the perfect belongs-in-a-magazine home! This is YOUR home and it is YOU. That is truly all that matters. No worries about cleaning your house either, though I do encourage you to de-cluttering a bit prior to the session to prevent distraction within the images, and don’t be surprised if I move things around when I arrive. I do ask that you have your bed made with, if possible, a neutral comforter or quilt - it’s the best spot for cuddly family photos!

Check out the newborn FAQ section below to learn more about how you can plan for the session.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • I generally recommend being comfortable and natural, with neutral, coordinating (not matching) clothing. Avoid logos or labels on the clothing, and add pops of color through accessories or by wearing solid or floral tops. I’m always available to help with styling, if needed, and you always have access to my client closet.

    Some like to go more formal with a dress and nice shirt/pants, while other stick with a more casual look. Either look is beautiful!

  • Think simple and timeless. Neutral onesies, muslin swaddles/blankets, or even just a diaper. I will bring a handful of muslin swaddle blankets to utilize if desired. I love to see those tiny bare fingers and toes!

  • Lifestyle newborn sessions are generally 60-90 minutes, but the time is flexible based on baby’s needs and number of siblings.

  • Please don’t stress about your newborn! Newborns are unpredictable! They cry, they need to eat, and they need diaper changes. All normal and exactly why these sessions are often a bit longer than a typical family session.

    I encourage you to feed your baby right before the session so they’re more likely to be sleepy and content, but again, newborns are unpredictable and don’t follow the rules! I do not need baby to be asleep during the session, but I do want baby to be content.

    We will take breaks as needed throughout the session to take care of the baby’s needs. Feeding breaks can also make for great photo opportunities (if desired) as well! No matter what baby is doing, try to relax and just enjoy the moments. This is your life and it’s real and raw.

PRICING

Session Fee | $200

This payment is due at the time of booking to reserve your session date, along with a signed contract.
This fee is separate from the package costs below.

Essential | $450

- 20 hand edited digital images in private online gallery for download and print.

- Full styling for the family

- Access to Client Wardrobe

- $200 retainer due upon booking with remaining $450 due at time of session.

- Option to upgrade to the Complete Collection below at any time for just $150.

Complete | $600

- Full gallery (50+ images) of hand edited digital images in private online gallery for download and print.

- $50 Print Credit to use towards prints & products of your choosing from my professional print lab for top quality results.

- Full styling for the family

- Access to Client Wardrobe

- Download access to Gallery Slideshow

- Can be used as an add-on to the Essential Collection for $150 at any time

Maternity + Newborn

Pregnant? Wanting both maternity and newborn photos? Book them together and get $200 off your newborn session!

First Year Plan

Get a combination of 3 sessions during your baby’s first year.
Choose 3: Maternity, fresh 48 (if able based on COVID restrictions), newborn, 6 month, 1 year

Each session is a standard full-length family session. All first year sessions include the whole family, with primary focus being on the child for milestone sessions.

Pay just one $200 session fee to book for the year, with remaining balance split between the three sessions (or other payment options available upon request).

Includes the full gallery from each of the 3 sessions - no picking and choosing your favorites!

Total cost for the year’s worth of packages: $1800 - that’s $600 in savings!
Flexible payment plans available.