Relaxed Saint Cloud Lifestyle Newborn Photography
in-home lifestyle newborn photographer
I love those first few weeks of the newborn stage, it is one of the few times in life that I feel like I actually slow down.
When I enter your home to photograph your little family together, I am not there to rush you or make your baby act in any way out of the ordinary. I want to capture you cuddled on your master bed, soaking in your newborn, the siblings dancing around while you love on your tiny baby, and the proud gaze of your husband as he embraces you while you cradle your baby.
"She came to our home and made us feel comfortable..."
Susannah was incredible to work with! We exchanged several emails before our maternity session, taking the time to get to know me and my husband and what we would be comfortable with during the photoshoot. She was very accommodating when I had to reschedule our session last minute due to falling ill the day before- she even reached out to see how I was doing! She was again flexible with dates for our newborn session when our daughter arrived four weeks early. She came to our home and made us feel comfortable- despite the chaos of our cluttered house, protective dogs, and crying newborn. I always feel incredibly awkward in pictures and was worried that awkwardness would show through the camera, but she managed to get countless images that I adore and cherish. I am so grateful for Susannah and to have these pictures to look back on!
Emily P.
Where do newborn photo sessions take place?
Newborn lifestyle photography sessions take place in client's homes around the Saint Cloud, MN area or at an outdoor location at sunset.
Outdoor newborn sessions are only offered June through September here in Minnesota, however, and the session will be carefully scheduled dependent upon the weather so that it is not too hot or cold for your tiny baby.
When should we schedule our lifestyle newborn session ?
Typically, newborn pictures are taken when baby is between 1-4 weeks old. They can be later if you want too though, since newborn sessions with me are relaxed and not filled with heavy posing for baby, it is not a problem if your baby is a little older. The older that babies are, the more they will engage with their family during the session! This gives mom a chance to heal as well.
What if my baby is upset during the session?
Let me reassure you, I will not be impatient or upset if your little one is upset. Your sweet baby has experienced such a huge change entering into the world from their cozy place inside your womb, it is okay if they are struggling and need extra nursing and snuggles. I block off two hours in my calendar so that we have plenty of time together to not rush your little one.
Because I take a baby led approach to posing, this is a built in mechanism to help your photo session to be peaceful and natural for your little one. I am not in a rush, we have plenty of time in your session to take care of your baby's needs and capture precious memories.
As a mom and newborn photographer, I bring a peaceful and relaxed attitude to your session. I am well experienced with babies and I am equipped to help come alongside you and work with you and your family to make beautiful images in a way that doesn't stress baby out.
Check out this blog post for some of my favorite ways that I prepare moms and dads for their baby's newborn lifestyle session.
How do I prepare my home for our in-home session?
You do NOT need to clean for me - You just had a baby!
If your hubby has time, a quick tidying of clutter (including phone chargers and tissue boxes, etc.,) and trash from surfaces and making sure that there is a clean, neutral bedspread on the master bed is great to have done.
When I arrive, I take a peek around and I don't mind moving things around so that they aren't in your photos.
Having your baby's photos taken in an in-home newborn session is about capturing the intimacy and love of newborn days and the environment in which your sweet baby experiences the world on a day to day basis - Don't stress about trying to make things immaculate!
What should we wear for a lifestyle newborn session?
The biggest thing is to choose something that you are comfortable in. Some moms love wearing a beautiful dress, but others want to stick with the simplicity of jeans and a cozy sweater, or a plain t-shirt with a pretty lacy duster. These are all great options!
Choosing light neutral colors is the best way to go when choosing outfits for an indoor setting - Make sure to avoid very dark colors ( a newborn's photo shoot should not feel oppressive and dark.)
If you're struggling with ideas, don't worry! I help with styling and am available for questions at every point along the way.
What should newborn wear for newborn pictures?
Baby might be the easiest to dress - think SIMPLE - Choose a plain onesie or simple sleeper, maybe with texture (but keep it one solid color!) and a few simple muslin swaddles for some loose wrapping and diaper photos.
If you want to add a bit more texture and styling, you could choose something like a neutral knit romper for your cute little one.
Are siblings included in newborn pictures?
Absolutely! Having your newborn's session at home allows for siblings to easily participate in baby's first photo shoot in a non-intimidating and natural way. They will be more comfortable and have more fun, and so will you!
I am a mom and have worked with children for many years, I totally get that kids have rough days and adjusting to a new baby can be a challenging time. If your little ones are struggling or having a hard time, it doesn't bother me - I am happy to go with the flow and engage them as they are willing, I won't force them to do anything they aren't feeling up to.
How do I book my baby's newborn session?
I am thrilled that you've chosen me to be your photographer! You can fill out this form on my contact page to inquire, use the link below, or learn more about pricing.
*If you’d like to book your maternity session and newborn session together, you save $120 so long as they are booked at the same time.
