Newborn Frequently Asked Questions
When should my newborn be photographed?
The best time to photograph newborns is within 2 weeks of birth or 2 weeks of coming home from the hospital for premature babies. Newborns are the sleepiest and most flexible at this time. Often it is also before baby acne and colic becomes an issue. I will photograph newborns up to 3 ½ - 4 weeks if necessary. After this time I offer sitter sessions for babies as they learn to sit up.
When should I book my newborn session?
I recommend booking a session in your second trimester. I book a limited number of newborn sessions a month. Booking a session and paying a deposit insures a place on my calendar around your due date. An exact date is scheduled once your baby is born. Sometimes I have last minute openings, but it is rare. Priority is given to baby’s who book their session in advance. I keep my sessions limited to accommodate for late and early arrivals.
How do I book a newborn session?
A signed contract and paid deposit books your session and holds a place on my calendar.
Are deposits refundable?
Unfortunately no. Deposit/retainer fees are used to reserve a place on my calendar. Once your session is reserved, I limit other newborns with a close due date. I also start preparing for your session as soon as you’re on my calendar. At times purchasing items relating to your preferences.
Where does my newborn session take place?
Newborn sessions are done in the safety and comfort of your own home. No need to worry about being late or taking your precious baby out while they are so new. I bring the entire studio experience to you.
My home doesn’t have good natural light. Will that be a problem?
No problem. I use a studio light for my sessions.
What do I need to provide for my session?
I bring everything needed for your newborn including hats, wraps, outfits, props, blankets, and a backdrop. Provide me with colors you like and I will style the session. While I can not guarantee every color, I do have an extensive selection of colors and custom high end newborn outfits and accessories. You just need outfits for siblings and/or parents if including family members in the session.
If you have something special (an outfit or blanket) from home, I will do my best to incorporate your items into the session. Just remember the baby is the boss. Awake babies are difficult to pose in a flattering way in outfits. Awake/unsettled babies are wrapped for sessions.
What should I wear for my newborn session?
Wear something you are comfortable in that doesn’t need adjusting when you move. I recommend avoiding loud or distracting patterns and words. Parents and siblings should match or coordinate. Don’t worry about shoes. Portraits are taken for the waist up for adults. A neutral background is used (beige/bone). Siblings can show their cute little feet. Timeless colors include white, creams, neutrals, black, and pastels. Your newborn will be swaddled for family/sibling images. Remove hair ties and watches from wrists. Watch for chipped nail polish.
How do I prepare for my newborn session?
The day before your session I will email you instructions on how to prepare for the day. Basically, a sleepy baby and warm house.
How long does a newborn session take?
On average a full or deluxe session takes about 2 ½ hours. This includes set-up and clean up at your home. There’s also downtime for feedings, diaper changes, and soothing. A simply baby session is about 1 hour. Some sessions are a little shorter or longer depending on the baby’s sleepiness and comfort. I try not to go over 3 hours. I find over three hours is just too long for babies and tired parents.
When will I receive my images?
Typically, you will receive a link to your edited gallery within 10-14 days of your session. Under rare circumstances a gallery can take up to 3 weeks.
Is it best to have a studio or in-home newborn session?
There are benefits to each kind of session. At this time I provide in-home newborn sessions only. I bring a studio experience to you with the benefits of not having to take your baby (and young siblings out of the home).
Is every image you shoot included in my gallery?
No. A lot of time is spent culling your session to pick the best images from each set up to edit and include in your proof gallery. Eliminated images include, but are not limited to, duplicates, test shots, images with missed focus or missed flash, wardrobe malfunctions, and unflattering expressions.
Can I include my pet in the newborn session?
No, I do not include pets in the session for various safety reasons.
How many images do you deliver?
The number of proofs provided in your gallery will vary depending on the session type you choose, the cooperation of participants, and the comfort/sleepiness of your newborn.
Do you have liability insurance?
Yes, Danielle Marti Photography is a legal and insured business.
When are newborn sessions scheduled?
The majority of my sessions are scheduled on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings.
I’m nervous about COVID-19. Is it safe to have a newborn session?
While there is always a risk, I do my best to provide a safe session. My sessions take place in your home. There’s at least 24 hours between scheduled sessions. All my props, equipment, and outfits are cleaned prior to your session. I wear a mask and wash/sanitize my hands throughout your session. I have been vaccinated for COVID-19 as well as whooping cough (pertussis).