Newborn Welcome Guide

Are you ready to celebrate this beautiful season of your life with a relaxed and heartfelt session? So am I!


To create something truly special, we need to work together. There are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a meaningful and stress-free session, so take a moment to read through this guide with your partner.


During our time together, I’ll guide you into natural poses and movements that highlight your connection and love. I’ll encourage you to embrace the quiet moments—the way your hands instinctively cradle your belly, the way your partner’s eyes soften when they look at you, the laughter you share in between. These are the moments that make your story uniquely yours.


If you’re bringing older siblings, I’ll incorporate them in a way that feels natural and fun, allowing them to love on you and the baby in their own way. There’s no need to force anything—just show up as you are, and I’ll take care of the rest.






Connection is the secret to meaningful photos

Try to always be touching—your growing belly, your partner, your little ones if they are joining. A gentle hand on your bump, fingers intertwined, a forehead pressed against your partner’s—it’s the small gestures that make your photos feel like you.


For couples, think of this session as a quiet moment to soak everything in before life changes in the most beautiful way. Whisper to each other, laugh, reminisce about when you first met, or dream out loud about your baby’s future.


If you have little ones, I want them to feel included and excited! Let them feel your belly, talk to the baby, or cuddle in close. These organic moments will bring so much warmth and authenticity to your photos.


Dresses hanging in window

Choosing the Perfect Style


Take a peek at my client closet and see if there are some options you love. If you’d like to try them on beforehand, we can schedule a time to meet up, or I can bring a few options to your session for you to decide day-of. You’re also welcome to choose two outfits and do a quick change mid-session!


When selecting your outfit, consider:


Colors you love wearing—a dress can be beautiful, but if you don’t feel good in the color, you may not love the final photos.


A flattering silhouette—look for dresses with:

  • A fitted bodice that defines right above your belly.
  • A skirt that flares out starting above your bump, not below.
  • Floor-length designs for a soft, romantic, and flowing feel.


If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t worry—I’m here to help! Feel free to reach out with any questions.


If you don't see anything you like in my client closet, feel free to reach out and I am happy to give some guidance to help you find something from an online retailer that fits your vision.


What to Wear for Your Maternity Session


The clothing you choose can elevate your photos from good to truly stunning, and I’m here to help you select outfits that will complement both your style and my photography.


Start with One Outfit

Begin by choosing one person’s outfit—usually the hardest person to dress—and build from there. For maternity sessions, I recommend starting with your dress first and coordinating the rest of the family around it.


Textures & Patterns

Textures photograph beautifully, adding depth and dimension to your images. Look for fabrics with detail—lace, knits, embroidery, or subtle ruffles—to create interest. If you prefer solid colors, focus on rich textures to avoid a flat look.

When incorporating patterns:

  • Stick to one pattern for a three-person family.
  • Add one or two more for larger families, but keep balance in mind.
  • Florals and soft, organic prints are lovely, while thin, close-together stripes can create a distortion effect in photos.


Dresses & Outfits for Moms

For maternity sessions, I love long, flowy dresses because they create stunning movement and flatter your bump beautifully. Options with a defined waistline, empire cuts, or wrap styles work especially well. If dresses aren’t your thing, a fitted top with a long duster or cardigan can add the same sense of movement.


Dressing the Rest of the Family

  • For little girls: If they’ll be held most of the session, rompers or fitted outfits work best (skirts and dresses tend to bunch up).
  • For little boys: Overalls, rompers, and suspenders are adorable and add charm.
  • For men & older boys: Henleys, casual button-ups, sweaters, and textured layers work great. Avoid hoodies, stiff dress shirts, or polos that feel too structured.


Color Palette

My editing style pairs beautifully with warm, earthy tones, so I recommend incorporating hues like rust, mustard, brown, mauve, and soft blush. You can balance warmth with touches of cool colors like teal, turquoise, or deep green, but use them sparingly. Neutrals—cream, taupe, gray, and tan—help keep the color palette balanced.


Avoid:

❌ Bright white (it often photographs with a blue tint).

❌ Neon or highly saturated colors.

❌ Large amounts of black.

❌ Colors that blend too much with your session’s location (e.g., wearing green in a grassy field).


Final Tips

  • Choose clothing that complements your home decor if you plan to display your photos.
  • Avoid logos, characters, and trendy patterns that might date your images.
  • Ditch the athletic shoes—casual sneakers like Converse work better.
  • Matching outfits aren’t necessary; instead, aim for coordinated colors and textures.


Hair + Nails

Hair + Makeup

Shoes

Accessories

Hair + Nails

Hair + Makeup

Shoes

Accessories

FAQ

I love when moms wear their hair down—it adds beautiful movement and texture to your photos! Don’t worry about little flyaways; they’re part of your story.


For nails, stick to clean, natural looks or a classic French manicure. Bold colors and chipped polish can be distracting, especially in black and white photos. A simple, timeless style always photographs best!


Hair + Nails

Hair + Makeup

Shoes

Accessories

FAQ

Professional hair and makeup aren’t required, but you’ll never regret getting them done! If you do, opt for a natural look—long, flowy hair (rather than formal updos) adds beautiful movement and texture to your photos.


When booking, schedule your appointment early enough to give yourself time to change, eat, and relax before your session. That way, you’re not rushing and can fully enjoy your glam look!


Hair + Nails

Hair + Makeup

Shoes

Accessories

FAQ

Comfort is key, especially during pregnancy! I recommend skipping high heels and choosing stylish flats, sandals, or boots that match the season.


Your shoes may not be visible under your dress, but if they are, you’ll want them to complement your outfit. If you're unsure, bring an extra pair to swap out if needed! As we style your outfit, we'll touch on this. Generally, I recommend brown or caramel colored shoes.


Hair + Nails

Hair + Makeup

Shoes

Accessories

FAQ

When it comes to accessories, less is more! A delicate necklace or simple earrings can add a beautiful touch, but avoid bold statement jewelry—we want the focus on you and your baby bump.


Depending on the season, a shawl, scarf, or even a hat can be a lovely addition. Just be sure to leave behind:


❌ Hair ties on your wrist

❌ FitBit or Apple Watch

❌ Distracting statement pieces



Photo Day Tips

Prep your Outfits


Try on outfits ahead of time to make sure they feel comfortable. (If you want to try your dress on ahead of time, let me know and we can coordinate a time.)

Hydrate and Pamper yourself


Pregnancy can be tiring, so drink plenty of water and take some time for self-care before your session. Try and take a nap, and make sure any littles are well rested before arriving to your session.

Eat Beforehand


No one is happy with a grumbling stomach. Make sure to feed yourself and your family before the session (even if it is just a light snack) - Don't forget to brush teeth afterwards!

Arrive Early


Give yourself extra time so you don’t feel rushed. This is your time to slow down, breathe, and enjoy.

 

Come Ready to be Present


This may be your last photoshoot together before life changes in the most beautiful way. Let’s take this time to slow down, focus on each other, and soak in the little life growing inside you.


In the midst of preparing for your baby, have you paused to just be in your husband's embrace? During your session, I’ll guide you into flattering light and natural poses, then give you prompts to help you connect in a way that feels right for you.


For example, I might say, “[Dad], why don’t you rub her arms to warm her up or wrap her in a big hug to keep her cozy?” That way, he can choose what feels most natural.


After capturing moments with both of you, Dad can relax while we take some beautiful solo images of you and your bump.


I can’t wait to see you at your session—it’s going to be incredible!