Hello!
After starting my own family in 2010, I realized how quickly the newborn stage of life passes by. Before you know it, middle of the night feedings turn into learning how to walk to field trips at school.
When you look back on your own childhood photos, which are your favorites? If they are the ones where you are snuggled into your mom or dad’s lap reading a book, or playing with your favorite toy, lifestyle photography is the perfect choice for your baby’s first photo session.
It’s about telling the story of your new family. All of the details in the nursery you’ve worked so hard on; the details of life with your incredible baby.
What To Expect
Newborn sessions are scheduled on week day mornings approximately 2 weeks after your due date to ensure availability and flexibility for when Baby arrives.
I usually arrive with my camera and a (very large) coffee in hand, kick my shoes off and ask for a tour of your home. We will chat, I’ll fawn over your sweet new baby, become BFF’s with your other kiddos, and I’ll get familiar with your space.
Each baby and newborn session is different. Because my newborn sessions are baby-led, we are going to have a relaxing photo shoot chatting about parenthood (and, if we’re being real, poop) while I’m snapping away and you are loving on your precious new baby. There is no set schedule or plan; as a parent myself, I’ve learned to be adaptable.
If you have a toddler, they are boss for the day. I will encourage siblings to participate in a way that gives them flexibility and control. This is all new for them, too, and it may take some time to warm up. The same goes for your fur-babies.
Although this is a lifestyle session, I do offer gentle guidance for posing to get the ball rolling and help you settle in. I will also be sure to get one where everyone is looking at the camera, in addition to beautiful candid moments.
The average in-home newborn session or Fresh 48 will last around 2 hours. If you’re opting for an outdoor “golden hour” vibe, those are booked 75mins before sunset.
In-home or Fresh 48 newborn session fee: $1500
Session retainers are due with a contract at booking to secure your spot and include:
- 15 digital images
- behind-the-scenes keepsake film, uploaded to youTube for easy sharing
- your pre-session planning and consultation
- all the magic that happens on my end before, during, and after your session
Your images will be ready and uploaded to a private online gallery within 2 weeks of our session for viewing and ordering. I highly recommend the heirloom album to remember your newborn session.
Additional digitals will be available in sets of 5 for $300, or upgrade to your entire digital gallery so you can choose what works best for you.
Click here to view product samples and pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
“What if my house is a mess?” When I arrive I will look around for the rooms with the best light. Please have blinds/curtains opened and artificial lights off, but do not feel that you need to have a perfectly clean home for me.
In particular, I like to focus on the nursery, and use the living room/den or a bedroom for snuggly family photos. But it all comes down to needing one good window and we can build from there. I recommend having a solid cover on your bed, as a strong pattern can be distracting or clash with clothes. Other than that, I can take care of the details when I arrive.
“Will you pose my baby?” I think babies are beautiful as they are. Their natural unfolding when they stretch, the way they curl up when placed on their side, the way they yawn when comfortably swaddled. All of that is so simple and beautiful and my goal for you is to always be able to relive the feeling you get when you see them like that.
“What should my baby wear?” A new baby can get lost in a big outfit, so I always suggest using a light muslin wrap and a simple onesie (not one that’s too big!) Solids and subtle patterns work best, perhaps one that complements their nursery theme. Check out SpearmintLOVE for unique muslin swaddles.
“What should I wear?” I’m documenting one of the most exciting times in your life, so keep it real by wearing what you’re most comfortable in and by being yourself. I encourage neutral colors, staying away from big logos or bold patterns. Personally, I love dresses for my mamas because they add movement and are very flattering for that postpartum stage. And don’t forget about your nails!
“What if we just started cluster feeding?” Please always feed your baby as needed. I am more than happy to document your breastfeeding journey (if you’re comfortable with that!) or give you space and hang with your other kiddos or your dog. Also, don’t worry about making sure baby eats before I arrive because I do not need a sleepy baby for lifestyle photography; during my sessions, babies spend most of their time secure in their parents arms.
“Photography is a way of feeling, of touching, of loving. What you have caught on film is captured forever… It remembers little things, long after you have forgotten everything.” — Aaron Siskind
2023 Newborn New Client Welcome Guide from internationally published Northern Virginia photographer Blaire Ring, Second Ave Photography. Prices and collections subject to change at any time without notice. All prices are subject to 6% Virginia state sales tax as applicable by law. Location/permit fees mare not included in the session retainer. Travel fees may apply to areas outside of Northern Virginia and Washington DC.
Please review my illness policy here: https://www.secondavephotography.com/illness-policy/
Every portrait session and school booked allows me to support local animal rescues, The March of Dimes, Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep, and offer free portraits for parents riding the NICU roller coaster. In 2019 I donated over $3500.
