I'm overwhelmed -- where do I start ?
Hi! I'm Shalee and I'm hoping to make capturing your newborn photos easy and relaxing. The ideal time to hold a newborn session is in the first 10 days or gestationally adjusted to that time frame if baby is early. Please put your due date for newborn bookings and the date and time can be adjusted once you notify me that baby has arrived.
I often like to hold newborn sessions in the morning starting between 9-10 am. I've found I have the best luck with sleepier happy babies during that time, however I am flexible if this doesn't fit your schedule. As a general rule I don't tend to book any newborns after 3pm.
How do I choose a location ?
Being that we live in a place that tends to be on the cooler side, I prefer to photograph newborns indoors. If the weather is above 70 degrees I am open to stepping outdoors for some photos at your request. I do have an in-home studio with a separate entrance and driveway. I hold most sessions here since all of my equipment and props are readily available. I'm also willing to come to you for a more candid lifestyle newborn experience (booked above as Sugar Rush In Home) with limited props and lighting gear.
How and When do I pay?
Payment is due at the time of the session. I do not require a deposit, however multiple cancellations or a no show do incur a fee.
I accept Cash, Check, Venmo or Credit Card via an email invoice sent after the session is held. If you would like to pay in advance please reach out to me.
What should we wear?
I get asked this a lot. I do have a Pinterest board that has some great color combos I love, look me up - Rolling Fields Photography. Honestly, when I'm planning our family photos that's where I start. I also like to dress the most difficult family member first and build around their outfit. Umm... that person is me, so the boys wear something that goes along with my outfit. Once I get started I lay clothes out together to be sure I'm not off base, then I keep building on details until I'm happy. Or if you're more low key - just show up in what's comfortable and fits your style. Most poses for parents with newborns are waist up, so don't worry about fitting back into those jeans! Be comfortable.
Baby can wear an outfit you bring, borrow some swaddles/hats/headbands that I have, or be in a onesie. I tend to go with your preference, after all these are your photos! We can work together to coordinate what you like.
What happens at the session? And what should I bring?
Yay, it's session day! I'm so excited to meet you and your sweet new babe! I know it's hard to get out of the house with a little one - I've been there. If you're running late don't stress, just drop me a text message or call and give me a heads up. Once you are here, we make quick introductions or catch up on what's new. If you have specific ideas, props/special items you'd like to include in your newborn session please let me know upon arrival. Newborn sessions allow for fussy baby time, feedings and diaper changes - hence the longer session times. I'll guide you through certain ways to hold baby, and positioning to capture all those snuggles and little details. Sibling poses vary based on participation and age range of siblings. Those little ones under 3 sometimes take some coaxing to interact with their new baby. Newborns posed alone are often on a fur blanket, prop, or newborn positioner - during that time I require a parent be present and at my side for any soothing, and assist with baby that might be needed. If you are struggling with recovery and would appreciate another set of hands, please let me know before your session. I'm happy to accommodate with one of my studio assistants.
Supplies and What to Expect
I generally say plan for 5 diapers and two feedings during our time together. The studio is kept warm since babies don't like to be cold. I encourage parents/family to wear light layers and bring something to stay hydrated. Often families with young siblings will drive separate or make plans for the other littles to be entertained/snack during their wait time (I have books but no screens in the studio - it's too distracting while shooting, however you are welcome to bring devices and use them in the waiting area). All children must be supervised by a parent/guardian while in the studio. Please bring your normal diaper bag of supplies - I do have items on hand but realize some babies are sensitive to different products.
Newborn sessions tend to be just under 2 hours when including family and siblings, but can be as long as 3 with fussier or unsettled babies. I do my best to be efficient and read the room, as well as communicate with you throughout the session to be sure we get the images we want and keep everyone as happy as possible.
What happens NOW? Where are my photos?
You did it! Now I go home, back up your files, review my favorites and select what I'm going to edit. I almost always have a running list, sometimes it's only 10-12 families long and other times it's 25-40 families long (fall/holidays). I do my absolute best to get all sessions back within 2 weeks, however some sessions take longer than others. I'm working on that and have an 'awesome helper' behind the scenes to keep things moving as quickly as possible. Once the photos are edited, I tend to deliver galleries via email or text message. Everything is downloadable via the gallery website. If you get stuck and don't know where the buttons are, I'll help walk you through it!