Thinking of booking a newborn or family session with me? Here’s my most frequently asked questions and everything you need to know.
Looking to book a session with a family photographer in the Somerset, Wisconsin area? You’re in the right place! I know there’s a lot to think about when planning your session, from what to wear, to when to schedule, to what happens if baby decides to make their debut early (spoiler: we roll with it!). I’ve gathered all my most frequently asked questions in one spot to make things super easy for you. Whether you’re dreaming up a cozy in-home newborn session, golden-hour maternity photos, or a fun cake smash to celebrate your little one’s first birthday, here’s everything you need to know before your session. Plus what to expect during and after your session too!
Booking & Timing for Your Session
1. When should I book my maternity session?
My schedule is always filling up fast, so I recommend reaching out during your first trimester to book your session. The sweet spot for scheduling your maternity session is between 28–34 weeks, when you’re showing beautifully but still comfortable enough to move around. Don’t wait until the very last month…trust me, chasing golden light at 38 weeks pregnant is no one’s idea of fun AND who knows when that babe with decide to arrive.
2. When should I book a newborn session?
I recommend reaching out during your second trimester so we can look at your due date and get a tentative session date on my calendar. Once baby arrives we’ll finalize the exact session date. I always recommend scheduling newborn sessions within the first 2 weeks of life, when those squishy, sleepy poses are easiest to capture.
3. What if my baby comes early or late?
It’s like babies don’t even care about our plans. Annoying right? If baby is early or late, don’t worry! I build flexibility into my weekly calendar for this reason. We’ll adjust as needed once your little one makes their grand entrance.
The Session Experience
1. How long does a newborn session last?
Plan on 1–2 hours. Babies need breaks for feeding, diaper changes, and sometimes just a little cuddle time. I keep the pace calm, slow, and baby-led so you never feel rushed.
2. What should I wear for maternity photos?
Stick to neutrals and soft tones. Basically anything you feel amazing in is great! Flowing dresses always photograph beautifully, but jeans and a button-up or even a cozy sweats-and-sweater look can be equally stunning. You deserve to feel like yourself.
3. Do you provide props, wraps, and outfits for newborn sessions?
Yes! My studio is fully stocked with wraps, blankets, cute newborn outfits, tons of bows, and minimal props so you don’t have to buy a thing. Just bring baby, diapers, and milk, I’ve got the rest covered!
4. What if my baby won’t stop crying?
Spoiler: they will cry. That’s normal. And don’t worry mama, I’ve seen it all. Cluster feeding, blowouts, spit-ups, you name it. We’ll take plenty of breaks to soothe baby, and keep rolling. No stress here. And I promise you we will still get plenty of perfectly adorable photos.
5. What is a client closet?
Have no clue what to wear for your family photos? All of my clients get access to my client closet for their session. It’s filled with so many cute and neutral outfit options for the whole fam. I keep it stocked with cute teeny baby sweaters and toddler outfits, plenty of flattering dress options for mom, and classic white tees in sizes for everyone. Check out a preview of my client closet here.
Milestone (Sitting & One Year) Sessions
1. What is a “sitting session”?
It’s a milestone session for when your baby can sit up unassisted, usually between 6–9 months. I love offering these sessions because it allows us to capture your baby while they are still a baby (because their personality changes SO much in those first 12 months)! All of my full newborn session packages come with a complimentary milestone sitting session!
2. When should I book a one-year session?
Reach out a few months prior and plan to schedule it for about a month before their first birthday. That way you’ll have photos in time to use for party invites and decorations!
3. Do you provide cakes for cake smash sessions?
Yes! All of my one year cake smash sessions include a cake from St. Croix Baking Company. They’re simple, beautiful and designed to photograph (and smash!) perfectly. Plus they taste amazing!
4. What if my child wants nothing to do with the cake at their session?
Totally normal! Some babies faceplant into frosting, others act like it’s poison. Whether your baby is all about it or completely cautious at first, we will roll with whatever happens and still get plenty of priceless photos!
Family & Add-Ons
1. Can parents and siblings be in the photos too?
Of course! Many of my sessions already include family photos, and it’s always an option to add them to any session. Whether it’s just you and baby or the whole crew, we’ll capture what matters most to you.
2. Do you travel for in-home newborn sessions?
Yes! If you’d prefer cozy, lifestyle images at home instead of the studio, I’ll come to you. Bonus: you don’t have to pack a diaper bag or put on shoes.
3. Can I bring my dog?
Abso-freakin-lutely! It makes my entire day when my clients bring the furry members of their family along for their session too. I just recommend bringing a friend or family member along with and assigning them to dog duty when their moment in the spotlight is over.
After the Session
1. How long will it take to get our photos back?
I guarantee delivery for your final gallery within 3–4 weeks. But I try to get your gallery to you sooner whenever possible, because I know you’re dying to see all the cute photos! And I usually send a handful of sneak peeks within a few days after your session too.
2. Do you offer albums or prints?
Yes! My clients all get access to my print shop, which is conveniently located right along with your digital gallery. I highly recommend taking a look (because your photos deserve more than just living on your phone). There are tons of options for framed prints, albums, holiday cards, and other cute photo gifts!
Ready to Make Some Magic Together?
I hope this list of FAQs helps take the guesswork out of planning your session and makes you feel even more excited for what’s to come! My goal is always to create a fun and relaxed experience where you can truly be present, whether you’re snuggling your brand-new baby, soaking in your growing bump and the last few weeks before your little one arrives, or watching your toddler dive face first into their birthday cake. These moments go by so quickly, but the photos we create together will let you hold onto them forever. If you’re ready to book a session (or just want to chat through ideas!), reach out here. I can’t wait to help capture your family’s story!
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