Welcome, Parents!
Whether I just saw you for your maternity session or we’re meeting for the first time at your newborn session, I’m truly honored to be a part of this season in your life.
Bringing a new baby into the world is such a big moment, and my goal is to make this experience as smooth, relaxed, and meaningful as possible for you and your family.
This guide will help walk you through what to expect from your in-home newborn session. We’ll go over how it works, how to prepare, and how we’ll create beautiful, heartfelt images together.
What to Expect
A Lifestyle Approach
My photography style is lifestyle-focused, which simply means your baby leads the way. I won’t bring big studio lights or ask you to pose stiffly. Instead, I’ll meet you in the comfort of your home and gently guide the session while following your baby’s natural rhythm.
If they’re sleepy, we’ll lean into that and capture all the cozy snuggles. If they’re wide awake and alert, we’ll celebrate those bright-eyed moments. If they’re hungry, they’ll eat. I recommend feeding your baby about 15 minutes before the session begins, but it’s not required. The goal is to keep them comfortable, not overfed.
When I Arrive
I’ll start by introducing myself and chatting with you and your family for a bit. Then I’ll take a quick look around to find the best light. Usually, we end up in the nursery, on the couch, or in the primary bedroom.
Please don’t feel pressured to clean.
Truly. I know what those first few weeks feel like. I’ve been there. I personally experienced postpartum depression, and I understand that sometimes getting through the day is the biggest victory. If something needs to be moved for a cleaner photo, I’ll gently take care of it. Most of the images I take are close and intimate, so clutter usually isn’t a concern.
How Long Will It Take?
Sessions typically last between 2 to 3 hours. I built in extra time for feeding breaks, diaper changes, and those moments when the baby just needs to be held. I’ll have my camera out the whole time, quietly capturing the little in-between moments that often become favorites.
Your Baby
I fully believe we are all perfectly and wonderfully made, and that includes your baby just as they are.
Here’s what works best for the session:
Dress your baby in a simple, snug onesie (solid color, no graphics or words)
Have a few of your favorite swaddles or blankets nearby so we can use those to wrap them gently
At some point, I may capture a few sweet, natural shots of your baby without clothing, always keeping them safe and warm
The Flow of the Session
Your session will be relaxed and baby-led, but I do have a gentle flow I typically follow to help keep things moving while giving everyone space to breathe.
We usually start with family photos, so everyone is involved from the beginning
Then I’ll focus on siblings if they’re part of the session
After that, we’ll move into photos with both parents, followed by portraits of the baby with each parent individually
I typically end the session with the baby alone, swaddled and comfortable, either in their space or cradled gently in your arms or hands
Swaddling helps babies feel safe and cozy, so I’ll keep things simple when wrapping your baby for their solo portraits.
Throughout the session, I’ll have you step in to soothe your baby as needed. Bonding during this time is so important, and I always want the baby to feel safe and supported in your arms.
Including Parents
Yes, this session is all about your new little love, but you’re part of the story too. Don’t be surprised if I gently encourage you to hold your baby for a few portraits. These quiet, connection-filled moments are often some of the most meaningful.
Not sure what to wear?
Here are a few tips:
Stick with neutral colors (creams, whites, grays, soft earth tones)
Avoid bold prints or logos
Comfort over everything else. You’re recovering and adjusting, so dress in whatever feels like you
Final Thoughts
This season of life is full. Full of love, full of change, full of emotion. It’s okay if things don’t go perfectly. My job is to show up with calm energy, a kind heart, and my camera so you can just focus on being present with your baby.
I can’t wait to help you remember this fleeting time exactly as it is.
“I really enjoyed my newborn session. pictures came out beautiful. love how this moment was captured and i can look back and enjoy the pictures i have of my family”
— Newborn/Connie Stephens
“VANESSA CAPTURED EVERY IMAGE I COULD HAVE DREAMT OF IN OUR NEWBORN SESSION AND THEN SOME. I WILL CHERISH EACH PICTURE FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE. SHE WAS SNAPPING PICTURES WHEN I HAD NO IDEA SHE WAS. EVERY DETAIL IMAGINED WAS CAPTURED IN THE MOST BEAUTIFUL WAY. THANK YOU!”
— Newborn session/Morgan Adams
