Session Guide
Newborn and Infant
Newborn/ Infant
Session Guide
I'm thrilled that you've chosen me to capture this precious time in your family's life. My goal is to create a relaxed and enjoyable experience, allowing your family's true essence to shine through in every photo.
This guide will provide you with all the information you need to prepare for your newborn session. From what to expect to tips on making the most of our time together, I've got you covered. Let's create beautiful memories that you'll cherish forever.
Welcome
I'm thrilled that you've chosen me to capture this precious time in your family's life. My goal is to create a relaxed and enjoyable experience, allowing your family's true essence to shine through in every photo.
This guide will provide you with all the information you need to prepare for your newborn session. From what to expect to tips on making the most of our time together, I've got you covered. Let's create beautiful memories that you'll cherish forever.
Welcome
Keep reading for more details on how to prepare for your newborn/ infant session, what to wear, including siblings, pets, and more.
My newborn and infant sessions are all about connection! The smile on your face while you look at your baby, your partner's finger wrapped about your baby's hand, the love, the details and all the moments in between. I will gently guide your family every step of the way to achieve not only beautiful photos but beautiful moments for you to cherish forever. In this guide you will find helpful tips on how to prepare your family. I promise it's easy. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask I'm here to help and I want to make sure you (and I) have all of the information needed for a fun and relaxed session. After your session I will cull and edit your photos. Your gallery is typically ready within 4 weeks of your session.
Preparation
preparing for your Newborn/Infant session
"A new baby is like the beginning of all things: wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities."
- Eda Leshan
We’ll plan to spend about two hours together with you primarily interacting with, loving and caring for, and snuggling your new baby. Sometimes sessions run longer and that’s ok. It all depends on your baby.
I use a combination of lifestyle and documentary style for in-home newborn sessions. What does this mean exactly? It means I may move you a bit for optimal light or composition, but also will just shoot natural moments as you care for and love your new baby. Feeding, changing diapers, comforting, etc. are all perfect opportunities for photos! I really want you to focus on your little one (or little ones!) and growing family. I might provide some gentle prompts, but mostly will just go with the flow. I love to capture connected moments, natural portrait shots, and of course the details. Those are so fleeting and I want you to savor every moment because babies change so quickly.
Some babies love to sleep, some want to be held the entire time, etc. and all are unique. I will take cues from your baby and let them lead the way for our session. I promise to get lots of beautiful shots along the way.
In advance (the questionnaire and our pre-session phone consultation), you'll let me know some ideal shots you’d love for me to capture and the little things you want to remember and we will try to capture some of those details as well. The magic is sometimes in the details and the in-between moments.
Plan to spend most of the session interacting with each other rather than looking at me. We will try for a shot with everyone looking at the camera (aside from your brand new baby, of course) if it works naturally, but we will also capture so much more.
You’ll receive an individualized plan prior to your session. This will keep us organized and ensure beautiful and varied shots, but I’m also flexible so we will follow the lead of your baby and family. Gentle suggestions, prompts and changes to the environment may be provided to foster connections and ensure the best lighting and composition. Most importantly, relax and enjoy your new baby, so we can capture truly authentic photos of your growing family.
What to Expect
Savor the Details and in-between moments
We’ll plan to spend about two hours together with you primarily interacting with, loving and caring for, and snuggling your new baby. Sometimes sessions run longer and that’s ok. It all depends on your baby.
I use a combination of lifestyle and documentary style for in-home newborn sessions. What does this mean exactly? It means I may move you a bit for optimal light or composition, but also will just shoot natural moments as you care for and love your new baby. Feeding, changing diapers, comforting, etc. are all perfect opportunities for photos! I really want you to focus on your little one (or little ones!) and growing family. I might provide some gentle prompts, but mostly will just go with the flow. I love to capture connected moments, natural portrait shots, and of course the details. Those are so fleeting and I want you to savor every moment because babies change so quickly.
Some babies love to sleep, some want to be held the entire time, etc. and all are unique. I will take cues from your baby and let them lead the way for our session. I promise to get lots of beautiful shots along the way.
In advance (the questionnaire and our pre-session phone consultation), you'll let me know some ideal shots you’d love for me to capture and the little things you want to remember and we will try to capture some of those details as well. The magic is sometimes in the details and the in-between moments.
Plan to spend most of the session interacting with each other rather than looking at me. We will try for a shot with everyone looking at the camera (aside from your brand new baby, of course) if it works naturally, but we will also capture so much more.
You’ll receive an individualized plan prior to your session. This will keep us organized and ensure beautiful and varied shots, but I’m also flexible so we will follow the lead of your baby and family.
Gentle suggestions, prompts and changes to the environment may be provided to foster connections and ensure the best lighting and composition.
Most importantly, relax and enjoy your new baby, so we can capture truly authentic photos of your growing family.
What to Expect
Savor the details and in-between moments
“For all the things my hands have held the best by far is you."
- Andrew McMahon
“For all the things my hands have held the best by far is you."
Mornings are typically the best time for in-home sessions in terms of light and moods. Babies are generally at their best in the mornings before the day wears on.
It's hard to predict how your baby and/or older siblings will nap, therefore little ones tend to be at their best and most rested in the mornings. You know your baby best and we'll discuss any changes to your baby's schedule during our pre-session phone call.
Timing and Lighting
the best time to take photos
Light and connection turns the ordinary into the magical.
I will do my best to make sure you're looking just fine at all times. But really the most important thing is to just enjoy this time together and be yourselves.
If you're worried about not knowing what to do with your hands or how to pose—don't be! I'll gently guide you so you feel comfortable and natural.
Think Natural,
Not Posed
- You want your home to be tidy for your session, but you still want it to look like your home! Tidy up the main areas we will be in and I'll move anything that is distracting or ask you, if ok.
- We'll mostly be in your living room, your bedroom, the nursery/kids' rooms, but I go where light is best. We'll discuss this in more detail during our pre-session phone call. We may need to move things a bit, such as cribs closer to windows but all easy changes.
- I recommend a comforter or bedspread that is neutral in color and not too busy. If it is, we can can always remove the cover - white looks great and acts as a natural reflector for better light.
Preparing Home
a checklist of things to remember
- Make sure you have special blankets, hats, etc. on hand as well as burp cloths and a change of clothes (for everyone) in case of accidents.
- Remember to leave all lights off because I use only natural light and don’t forget to think about cords on bedside tables along walls, etc. You can just unplug for our session and tuck the cords away. It will look better in photos
- I also have techniques of shooting from above and coming in for closer shots to reduce clutter in backgrounds or may ask to move anything that might be distracting in a photo.
- Don’t forget your backyard and front porch. Tidying it up a little helps and will look better in photos. And we will likely try for at least one family photo on your front porch. You will want to remember the home you brought your baby home too, especially if you move down the road.
Don't worry about prepping them too much. I know it's tempting to tell your children that when we have the session, they should look into the camera, smile, and do exactly as the photographer asks them to, but this is not my goal. I want the session to be full of moments of laughter and joy and not pushing them to follow what I ask. Adding a new sibling is a big transition for a child, so we will go at their pace and follow their lead.
To take your photos, I will play with your children. I will make funny sounds, do ugly dances, play peek-a-boo, and everything in between. I want you to tell your children that you are going to have fun.
I know all children are different. Some are shy, some are very enthusiastic, and some don’t want their photos taken at all. Some children need more time to warm up, while others don’t. You know your children the best, and please let me know before our session if there is anything you feel I need to know about your children. My aim is to make sure they feel special too. Please don't worry at all about behavior - I have an early childhood special education background and nothing phases me. I know children and promise to get some great photos for you.
Feel free to use bribes (a great gift to all mothers). Often, smaller rewards throughout the session work better than a big reward at the end. Like a little treat after a few clicks of the camera, this helps little ones maintain focus. Also, participating in favorite activities and playing with favorite toys also helps kids feel more comfortable.
If older siblings are up for it, I like to include them as helpers in the session and sometime spend a little 1:1 time in their rooms where they can show me all of their favorite things. This will helps your older child/ children feel special too and to also provides a great opportunity to capture some portraits and moments specific to them.
As I said, you know your children the best and if you feel that a reward after the session can work on them, go for it. But most important is that you try to excite the children as much as possible before the session and not give any exhortations.
How to Prep Older Siblings
Keep the Tone Positive
- Just be yourselves.
- All you have to do is just enjoy your time together. Look at, snuggle, love, and care for your baby and let me do the rest.
- This session is about capturing this special moment in time as your family grows and to document your baby during this fleeting time.
Focus on Each Other
Tips for a Fun and Relaxed Session
Let your children be themselves. Don’t worry if they get a little over-excited or don’t always follow along with my suggestions. It’s ok and to be expected.
While we will have some structure to the session, I also will spend time following your child/children’s lead and ideas. They'll really enjoy this and these moments can lead to beautiful and authentic photos.
Don’t worry about being too silly! Your children will LOVE this and if you are having fun, so will they.
- Let your children be themselves. Don’t worry if they get a little over-excited or don’t always follow along with my suggestions. It’s ok and to be expected.
- While we will have some structure to the session, I also will spend time following your child/children’s lead and ideas. They'll really enjoy this and these moments can lead to beautiful and authentic photos.
- Don’t worry about being too silly! Your children will LOVE this and if you are having fun, so will they.
Tips for a Fun and Relaxed Session
Avoid telling your children how to behave. The most important thing is that the children have a good and fun time. The smiles will then come naturally.
Forcing the Children
Easier said and done. But stressing over details or time will not put you in a good mood before your session.
Don't Stress
Your family is lovely, and your session is going to be great. Let those thoughts about perfection go. Instead, be present with your family and enjoy the moment you have with them. Leave all the worries about little ones not cooperating to me.
Place High Expectations on Yourself
preparing dont's
I know this isn't easy because babies never sleep when we want them to. But try to come to the session with siblings that have eaten and are rested if you can.
Babies are prone to accidents and spitting up. Be sure to have burp cloths on head and plan a change of clothes for everyone just in case.
Feed and Sleep the Babies
Plan for Change of Clothes
Plan your clothes in advance. Make sure that you all are comfortable with what you will wear. If you have any questions please feel free to reach out.
Plan the Outfits
Forget all your worries and focus on the memorable moment you will have with your family and new baby.
Be Excited!
preparing do's
Avoid telling your children how to behave. The most important thing is that the children have a good and fun time. The smiles will then come naturally.
Forcing the Children
Easier said and done. But stressing over details or time will not put you in a good mood before your session.
Don't Stress
Your family is lovely, and your session is going to be great. Let those thoughts about perfection go. Instead, be present with your family and enjoy the moment you have with them. Leave all the worries about little ones not cooperating to me.
Place High Expectations on Yourself
preparing dont's
I know this isn't easy because babies never sleep when we want them to. But try to come to the session with siblings that have eaten and are rested if you can.
Babies are prone to accidents and spitting up. Be sure to have burp cloths on head and plan a change of clothes for everyone just in case.
Feed and Sleep the Babies
Plan a Change of Clothes
Plan your clothes in advance. Make sure that you all are comfortable with what you will wear. If you have any questions please feel free to reach out.
Plan the Outfits
Forget all your worries and focus on the memorable moment you will have with your family and new baby.
Be Excited!
preparing do's
Guide your children towards outfits without logos and characters to keep photos timeless. That said, I also believe it’s important to honor who your child is. We can always include some photos of a costume or favorite shirt.
Minimize Prints and Cartoon Characters
what to wear
Using softer colors removes distractions, and the feelings between you and your family members will be the central part of the photos. Strong colors can also lead to color casting, where the color reflects back onto skin.
Avoid bright or neon colors
Just like the reason choosing softer colors, it's a good idea to avoid very eye-catching patterns since they will steal attention. Adding in a pattern here and there is fine, but I always recommend keeping it simple.
Patterns
Layers can add dimension to photos. The Bay Area can get cool throughout the year, so don't be afraid to throw on a cozy sweater for added texture.
Fabrics and Layers
You can never go wrong with neutrals. They are easy to coordinate, photography beautifully, and work well indoors and out.
Neutrals work great
Cellphones, keys, and other items are things you likely won't want to see in photos and they will show up.
Empty Your Pockets
Avoid both of you having the same color at the top and bottom. It's better to have colors that are working together than to use the same ones.
Just another friendly reminder. They will show up and you want to minimize distractions anyway and keep this time focused on each other.
Matching
Keep Phones Out of Pockets
Mainly because it steals all attention but also because it creates color casts. If you wear bright green, there is a chance that your skin will look green.
Bright Colors
Tiny flowers on a cute dress are great. I'm talking about patterns that are all over the place which can be distracting. Also, be sure to find clothes that fit your children well and are not oversized.
Crazy Patterns and Cartoon Characters
STYLING dont's
Wear something that feels comfortable. You're also welcome to change for feedings if that feels better to you.
For Breastfeeding Moms
This is because it's less distracting. The only thing that you want to see in your pictures is your love. It's also most flattering as it won't bring any color casts on you. And it will make your photos last a lifetime.
Choose Soft Colors
If you feel uncomfortable, you will look uncomfortable; that is nothing that can be fixed afterward.
Wear Clothes that Make you Feel Comfortable
Styling Do's
Avoid both of you having the same color at the top and bottom. It's better to have colors that are working together than to use the same ones.
Just another friendly reminder. They will show up and you want to minimize distractions anyway and keep this time focused on each other.
Matching
Keep Phones Out of Pockets
Mainly because it steals all attention but also because it creates color casts. If you wear bright green, there is a chance that your skin will look green.
Bright Colors
Tiny flowers on a cute dress are great. I'm talking about patterns that are all over the place which can be distracting. Also, be sure to find clothes that fit your children well and are not oversized.
Crazy Patterns and Cartoon Characters
Styling Don'ts
Wear something that feels comfortable. You're also welcome to change for feedings if that feels better to you.
For Breastfeeding Moms
This is because it's less distracting. The only thing that you want to see in your pictures is your love. It's also most flattering as it won't bring any color casts on you. And it will make your photos last a lifetime.
Choose Soft Colors
If you feel uncomfortable, you will look uncomfortable; that is nothing that can be fixed afterward.
Wear Clothes that Make you Feel Comfortable
Styling Do's
- Babies are perfect just as they are. White, neutral, or simple onesies work beautifully and you can always throw on some little pants, because they’re easy to remove for detail shots. I’d recommend avoiding outfits with feet so we can capture those little feet and toes!
- We most likely will capture some shots of your baby swaddled and unsaddled, depending on your baby’s age.
- If your baby is up for it (and warm enough), I also love trying to get some photos just in the diaper too. This way we can capture little rolls, belly button, hands, feet, etc.
- I also recommend avoiding bows or headbands which I find can be distracting in shots. We want to keep the focus on that sweet little face!
Dressing Your Baby
Keep it simple
Zara
Mango
Mabo Kids
Marlow + Mae
H&M
Janie and Jack
The most important thing is that you are all comfortable and feel yourselves. That said, here are some ideas you may find helpful if you are looking for something other than what you already own. If not, that's totally fine!
Shopping Guide
places to shop for the family
"When we have each other, we have everything."
Make your session your own
Incorporate Special Hobbies
I want your session to be meaningful for you. I'm flexible and I'm more than happy to incorporate a special hobby or interest. Maybe you love playing a musical instrument or gardening or perhaps you love having family dance parties. Think about what would be most meaningful to capture.
I love when families want to include their pets in their session. After many pet-friendly sessions, I have a few tips and tricks to share.
Since your pet likely won't be in every photo, it's best to begin or end begin the session with your pet. Some pets need time to adjust to a new face in the house, so I'll let you determine what you think is best. I'm flexible and we'll make it work.
The remainder of the session you may want to designate a space for your pet if you feel this would work for your family.
I'm sure you'll have on hand your pets favorite treats and sometimes plenty of exercise prior to our session can be helpful.
Happy to include your furry family members.
Pets
I love when families want to include their pets in their session. After many pet-friendly sessions, I have a few tips and tricks to share.
Since your pet likely won't be in every photo, it's best to begin or end begin the session with your pet. Some pets need time to adjust to a new face in the house, so I'll let you determine what you think is best. I'm flexible and we'll make it work.
The remainder of the session you may want to designate a space for your pet if you feel this would work for your family.
I'm sure you'll have on hand your pets favorite treats and sometimes plenty of exercise prior to our session can be helpful.
Happy to include your furry family members
Pets
"Not only did she take stunning photos to capture precious moments with our new baby, but she was so knowledgeable and thoughtful when it came to our baby girl. I'm so grateful for the photos Sara took and already can't wait to have her back for our 1st birthday photos!"
"Sara was absolutely wonderful to work with."
kind words from families
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a Newborn and Fresh 48 session?
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When is the best time to schedule an in-home newborn session?
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How long do newborn sessions last?
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What if my baby is fussy or needs to be fed during the session?
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What should I prepare for the session?
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How do I prepare for a session at home?
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What should we wear?
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What type of direction do you provide?
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How do I prepare older siblings?
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Can I include my pet in the session?
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What happens if we need to reschedule or cancel?
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How soon will I receive my photos after the session?
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How much do you edit the photos?
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Do you share RAW images?
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Can I purchase additional images or prints?
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How do I book a newborn or Fresh 48 session? Can I book both?
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What is the difference between a Newborn and Fresh 48 session?
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Newborn sessions take place in your home anytime within the first 3 months, focusing on capturing the baby’s details and moments together. Fresh 48 sessions are done within the first 48 hours after birth or before you’re discharged, capturing those raw, early moments in the hospital.
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Timing for newborn sessions is flexible based on my style. Some families want to capture the earliest moments and some prefer to feel more settled at home first.
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When is the best time to schedule an in-home newborn session?
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Newborn sessions at home typically last about 2 hours to allow plenty of time for feeding, soothing, and to capture a variety of images. I’m flexible and don’t place timeframes on these sessions because I want to be sure we capture all of the important moments. I do try to keep Fresh 48s shorter since you will have just had your baby and want to provide plenty of time for you to rest.
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How long do newborn sessions last?
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Newborn sessions are baby-led, so we take breaks as needed for feeding, soothing, and diaper changes to ensure your baby is comfortable.
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What if my baby is fussy or needs to be fed during the session?
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Keep your baby comfortable with a warm room and have extra diapers, wipes, and blankets on hand. For Fresh 48, just have a few simple outfits ready; the focus is on capturing natural moments.
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What should I prepare for the session?
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Don’t avoid an indoor session just because you are worried your home is not picture perfect. I promise it doesn't matter. I have techniques to minimize background clutter by changing angles and moving in closer. What is important is documenting this special time. Of course, it looks best to tidy up before the shoot, but you still want it to look like your home. I’ll provide more specifics in the Newborn/Infant Session Guide and during our pre-session phone consult, but this part is easy and not something I want you to worry about at all.
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How do I prepare for a session at home?
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Keep it simple. Choose outfits that make you feel comfortable and most like yourself. If you are breastfeeding, it might be best to find something that makes feeding easier or changing is also an option. Partners should also dress comfortably, but avoid shirts with logos or that are too busy to keep photos timeless. For babies, I recommend a neutral onesie and we can add color and warmth with swaddles. We’ll discuss this more and you’ll also receive more information about this in your Session Guide.
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What should we wear?
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I frequently hear from folks that they feel uncomfortable in front of the camera. My goal is to make everyone feel relaxed and to enjoy the session because I believe sessions should be easy and relaxed. I provide gentle guidance to support connection and enhance lighting and composition. Primarily, I want you to be yourselves so we capture this moment in time.
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What type of direction do you provide?
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It is a big transition having a new baby around, so I like to keep it very easy for older siblings. I’m a parent and early childhood special educator, so I happily will play and engage your older children. I share more details in your Session Guide after booking and we’ll work together during pre-planning to make sure everyone feels comfortable on the day of the session.
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How do I prepare older siblings?
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Absolutely! Your pet is part of your family, too, so I’m happy to include any pets during in-home sessions.
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Can I include my pet in the session?
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You may reschedule once if you notify me at least 48 hours in advance. We can transfer the session payment to a new date as long as it is within 6 weeks of the original booked date. This does not include rescheduling due to weather (rain, extreme cold) or a conflict out of my control. If I'm sick, I will also reschedule because I would never want to expose your family. In the event of session cancellation for any reason (other than weather), the retainer will not be refunded. If you cancel, all retainers paid are not refundable.
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What happens if we need to reschedule or cancel?
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You’ll receive your edited high-resolution digital images within 4 weeks. A private online gallery will be provided for you to view and download your photos.
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How soon will I receive my photos after the session?
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I provide light edits that may include adjustments in lighting, color, tones, and cropping. While I take pride in my craft and want to create beautiful and meaningful images for you, I don’t make extensive changes since my goal is to create natural and authentic photos. I'll remove little blemishes and polish things up, but I want your photos to represent reality. Please let me know in advance of your session if there's something specific you're sensitive about and I’ll do my best to accommodate.
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How much do you edit the photos?
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I do not share RAW images. The photos I take with my camera are not the final product and are considered unfinished works of art. I spend a great deal of time in post-processing and it’s the combination of capturing and processing the photos that allows me to artistically create the final images included in your gallery.
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Do you share RAW images?
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Yes, additional digital images and prints can be purchased. I offer various collections and print options to accommodate a range of needs.
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Can I purchase additional images or prints?
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Booking is easy! Contact me via my website to schedule an initial call. A retainer is required to secure your booking. If you decide you’d like to book both, you’ll receive a discount on your second session.
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How do I book a newborn or Fresh 48 session? Can I book both?
A work of art, printed with archival ink on museum-grade canvas.
Canvas Prints
Modern box-style frames with a thick mat, ready to hang and display in any setting.
Matted Frames
A classic and beautiful way to capture your big and small moments.
Everyday Albums
From prints that become keepsakes and albums that become heirlooms, bring your images to life with the magic of prints. Ordering details will be provided with your gallery.
Heirloom Prints and Albums
Transform your images into timeless treasures
A work of art, printed with archival ink on museum-grade canvas.
Canvas Prints
Modern box-style frames with a thick mat, ready to hang and display in any setting.
Matted Frames
A classic and beautiful way to capture your big and small moments.
Everyday Albums
From prints that become keepsakes and albums that become heirlooms, bring your images to life with the magic of prints. Ordering details will be provided with your gallery.
Heirloom Prints and Albums
Transform your images into timeless treasures
When to expect your photos
You’ll receive access via a private email link within 4 weeks of your session date. You can can view, download, share, and favorite these images directly from your gallery based on the collection you’ve selected. Be sure to use your print credit and save your photos in a secure location. I recommend saving in multiple places.
Online Gallery Delivered
To Select Photos & Use Print Credit
Four Weeks
30 Days
Sneak Peeks
72 Hours
when to expect your photos
You’ll receive access via a private email link within 4 weeks of your session date. You can can view, download, share, and favorite these images directly from your gallery based on the collection you’ve selected. Be sure to use your print credit and save your photos in a secure location. I recommend saving in multiple places.
You will have access to your gallery for 30 days from the date the link is sent. Your print credit must be used during this time and once it expires it cannot be reissued.
It’s nice to have everything saved to your computer, but it’s also really nice to have high quality prints you can enjoy daily.
You will have the option to purchase additional a la carte items as well as albums through the gallery store which includes access to a professional lab.
Print Credit and Options
I’m a big believer that your photos shouldn’t just live on a hard drive. Your photos are timeless keepsakes to hold onto literally and figuratively and to pass down through generations. The pace in which technology advances means photos we used to store on things like floppy disks are difficult to access now.
Printing your photos not only preserves special memories, but it also transforms them into pieces of art that you can enjoy daily.
Bring Your Images to Life with Prints
Explore, learn, and enjoy
The Journal
Sara
I’m honored and grateful to capture this window into your world and document moments and connections as your family grows. Whenever you are unsure or have a question, let me know.
No question is too small. See you soon!
I'm here for you!
i can't wait To capture these memories for you and your family!
— Sara
I’m honored and grateful to capture this window into your world and document moments and connections as your family grows. Whenever you are unsure or have a question, let me know. No question is too small.
I'm here for you
i can't wait for your session
I’m honored and grateful to capture this window into your world and document moments and connections as your family grows. Whenever you are unsure or have a question, let me know. No question is too small.
I can't wait TO capture These Memories for your family!
Sara