Congratulations, mama! You’re about to have a baby, or maybe your little one has already arrived. Someone (maybe you, maybe a well-meaning family member) has suggested booking a newborn session, and you might be wondering what that actually looks like. You’ve come to the right place!
As a specialist in newborn photography in Lafayette, Indiana, I’m here to walk you through exactly what to expect. My goal is to help you feel relaxed, prepared, and ready to simply soak in those tiny, precious newborn moments.
When Should You Book?
The sweet spot for newborn sessions is within the first two to three weeks of life. My ideal age is between 12-20 days old. At this age, babies are still beautifully sleepy, curly, and easier to settle. I recommend booking during your second or third trimester so your spot is secured before baby arrives.
If your baby is already here and you’re worried you missed the ideal booking window, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Whenever my schedule allows, I’m always happy to accommodate last-minute newborn sessions.
Where Does the Session Take Place?
Your newborn session will take place in my cozy lifestyle studio here in the Lafayette, Indiana area. A warm, peaceful space thoughtfully designed to feel like a natural extension of home. With beautiful soft light, comfortable furnishings, and a relaxed pace that always follows your baby’s lead. The studio creates the perfect setting for a calm and enjoyable experience.
For those sweet, timeless images of your baby nestled in my collection of props, the studio’s dedicated posing area is fully stocked with everything we need, including professional lighting, a variety of backdrops, wraps, and carefully chosen supplies.
During the session, you’re invited to settle into the family seating area, take a breath, and simply relax while I create all the magic for you.
How Long Does It Take?
Newborn sessions are typically 2-4 hours in length. That might sound like a long time, but newborns run the show! We make sure at each session to allow plenty of time for feeding, soothing, diaper changes, and all the in-between moments that make these sessions so real and beautiful.
What Should You Wear?
I always advise to start with mom first. Choose something you feel soft, comfortable, and confident in. Neutral or muted tones, soft fabrics, and simple styles photograph beautifully. Think creams, soft browns, muted blues or sage, and dusty blush colors. Avoid bold patterns or large logos that pull attention away. I have a full client closet available with curated options for moms and young children, so you don’t need to stress about finding the perfect outfit. I love working with each of my clients to style the perfect look for your session!
What Happens During the Session?
Many moms choose to have their makeup professionally done the morning of their session. I work with several incredibly talented artists who can meet us right at the studio. You can sit back and enjoy a little pampering while I gently follow your baby’s lead.
I like to begin by settling and comforting your baby so we can ease into a beautiful mix of softly posed images. From there, we’ll move into family and sibling portraits, capturing a variety of natural, connected moments together.
No two sessions are ever the same—because no two babies or families are the same—and that’s exactly what makes each gallery so meaningful.
What About Siblings?
Absolutely—siblings are always welcome, and they often help create some of my very favorite images from your session.
I usually suggest that siblings join us after I finish your baby’s solo portraits. That way, I can wrap, soothe, and settle your little one first, making sure they’re completely comfortable. Starting this way helps the family and sibling portion flow naturally and keeps the session relaxed for everyone.
Once we’ve finished your family images, dad or another adult is welcome to take the siblings home—or out for a special little treat—while we continue wrapping up the rest of baby’s session.
When Will You Get Your Images?
I love to invite my clients back to the studio 1-2 weeks after their session. It’s so lovely to connect and view all of the best images together! At this appointment, you’ll choose your favorite images, decide if you’d like to purchase additional digitals, and make any decisions about wall art or keepsake heirloom albums. I’ll deliver your fully edited gallery online so you can view, download, and order prints directly.
One Last Thing…
I want you to know that there’s absolutely no need to stress about the details—I’ve got it all covered. From guiding you through poses and lighting to keeping your baby comfortable and capturing every sweet moment, my goal is to make this experience calm, joyful, and completely stress-free for you. All you need to do is relax, enjoy these first precious moments, and trust that I’ll take care of the rest.
If you’re expecting or have a newborn and you’re ready to book your Lafayette or West Lafayette newborn session, I’d love to hear from you. Reach out through the contact form on my website. I cannot wait to meet your family!
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