When is the best time to book a newborn session?
As soon as you get that positive pregnancy stick! OK, maybe not that quick…but the sooner you book the better. I would suggest around your second trimester. I only book a limited number of newborn sessions per month and would really hate to have to turn down your session due to being fully booked.
How do I book a date if I am not sure when the baby will actually be born?
When you are ready to book your session we will pencil in a date for your due date. This way I know more or less a time frame for your session. I know babies make their entrance at their own time, so we would set the final date after the baby is born. I do require to be notified within 48hrs of the baby being born so we have enough time for scheduling purposes. Adding me to your “we had the baby!” text or email should be perfect that way you don’t forget.
When is the best time to do the session?
The best time for newborn sessions is when the baby is 6-14 days new. During this time, the baby is still very sleepy and curled up just like in the womb, making it much easier for posing.
Where do newborn sessions take place?
Sessions are held at my Long Valley, NJ in-home studio.
Do you also travel to client’s homes?
No, I feel like being able to have a dedicated studio space makes it ideal to have the perfect environment for newborn sessions. I am able to control the lighting, room temperature and have tons of props and options available at an arm’s reach. Parents are able to relax in the living room area, catch up on emails and even take a much needed nap! It will be a relaxing experience. Believe it or not, having a photographer come to your home could be more stressful. You will probably feel the need to tidy up (and who wants to do that after having a baby!), make sure there is a specific space that will fit the photographer’s items (and possibly have to move furniture around), set a specific temperature of the room, etc… Leaving the house, getting some fresh air, and just handing me your newborn and you having a nice relaxing time, sounds much better!
How long does the session last?
Newborn sessions range from 2-3 hour sessions depending on the collection you choose. Why so long? Well, I like to have enough time in case the baby needs extra feeding time, soothing, and posing a newborn all takes time and patience. This way, everyone is nice and relaxed and the session goes smoothly.
Can I bring a special item to include in my session?
Yes! I do ask that this be limited to one item.
Are sibling and parents shots included in the session?
Parents and sibling shots are included in full session collections, not in mini sessions. When siblings are included, we normally do those shots first, and a parent will take the child home or to the park since the session can last long and siblings tend to not have as much patience.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for our session?
I will be sending you very easy and simple to follow prep instructions for the day of the session. The basics are… keep baby awake for 1-2hrs prior to the session, and give baby a good feeding before leaving home. However, if you are traveling close to an hour let me know so we can schedule in some extra time prior to the session to feed the baby when you arrive.
Do I need to bring anything for my newborn session?
Nope! Just the baby, diapers and milk. I have everything here ready for you to use.
If you are looking for a photographer in the Morris County, NJ area and have any questions feel free to contact me!
Elizabeth Hollman Photography specializes in newborn, family, maternity and child photography in Long Valley, New Jersey and surrounding areas.