Information for your Newborn Family Photography Session

newborn photography posing ideas, newborn photographer, family photographer

FAQ

  • When should I schedule my newborn photoshoot?

    For best availability, please contact the studio at the end of your second trimester to have your name placed on our "expecting mommies list”. A $50 deposit is required to hold a place for your around your due date. Once your baby is born, you will contact the studio and schedule the actual date of your session - usually about days 9-15 after birth. Please note we tend to book out several months in advance so please contact us before your newborn arrives!

  • Do I receive the digital files with my session?

    Yes! All photo sessions include the edited digital files with a print release! In 2-3 weeks after your session you will receive an email with a link to your private online gallery where you can download your hi-res images. You will also have access to our on-line store where you can purchase beautifully crafted albums, birth announcements, canvases, prints and other items. Images delivered to the client will be chosen by the photographer and the exact number is variable depending on your session experience and type of session that is booked.

  • Do you edit/retouch images?

    Yes! Images will be retouched for acne, blemishes, and minor imperfections. Color changes, head swaps, etc. may incur an additional fee. Newborn skin is lightly retouched so as to preserve those precious details - downy skin, flakey toes, and wisps of hair just a little out of place.

  • What is my baby doesn't cooperate?

    This is a common fear of new parents - that their baby will not pose a certain way, or will be fussy or a sibling will not cooperate. DON”T STRESS! We are professionals and the sessions are baby-led, meaning we are flexible and can make accommodations so that baby is relaxed and comfortable. It is natural for siblings to be shy or wary, after all, their whole world has just been turned upside down! Just be prepared as parents to maybe jump in the shot to help them feel at ease.

  • Do you provide newborn props?

    Yes! We are stocked with plenty of newborn props to include baskets, blankets, hats, headbands and swaddles. Prior to your session we will discuss setups and colors you would like. If you have a particular item you would like to bring please let us know prior to your session. Please note not every baby is a best fit for a particular setup and baby safety and comfort will guide what is used.

  • What to wear for newborn photography session?

    You have scheduled your newborn session - now what should you wear? Here are a few tips:

    Choose colors like pale blue/chambray, blush, tans, oatmeal or taupe. These hues complement light backdrops beautifully. If you prefer a darker brown/pecan backdrop, we recommend that parents wear black. This creates a striking contrast and ensures a balanced, elegant look.

    Dad: Opt for a button-down shirt, a sweater, or a long-sleeve shirt for a polished appearance.

    Mom: A flowy dress is ideal, and consider incorporating lace details, which add a delicate, feminine touch perfect for soft, elegant photos.

    For more details, check out our blog post here: https://snipsandsnailsphotography.wordpress.com/2023/12/31/what-to-wear-for-a-newborn-photography-session/

  • What should I know as a new parent about newborn photography?

    I am so glad you asked! In fact, I have dedicated an entire blog post to this subject! Please check it out here! Additionally, download my detailed step-by-step prep guide!

  • My newborn is older than 2 weeks - can I still schedule a session?

    It is not uncommon for newborns to arrive early and have a bit of a NICU stay or other health concerns. Or, maybe you were preoccupied and didn’t even think to schedule a newborn session! No problem, we will try out best to schedule you and will suggest the style that will be fit with your newborn’s age and abilities. Please note, the newborns you see on my website and social media pages are usually 14 days and under. Babies older than this may have different posing requirements or need to be swaddled/incorporate parent assistance for the best portraits and gallery variety. Given our expertise is in newborns and sitter sessions, we may recommend postponing scheduling with our studio until the sitter stage which is usually the 6-8 month timeframe.

  • Do you offer gift certificates?

    Yes, gift certificates are offered in any amount for use on a studio session or products that are available for purchase once your gallery is published. Gift certificates make a great baby shower gift! Contact the studio through our site or call 703-855-5979 to order your gift certificate. They may be mailed or picked up at the studio.

  • Where are you located?

    Our studio is located at 1157 Webling Circle Greencastle, PA. We are equidistant from Chambersburg, Pennsylvania and Hagerstown, Maryland with easy access to I-81. Newborn fresh-48 sessions also occur at Hagerstown Meritus and Chambersburg WellSpan hospitals. Limited in-home family lifestyle newborn sessions are also available in the local tri-state area.

  • How do you prioritize my baby's safety?

    Your baby’s safety and comfort mean everything to us. Every session is truly baby-led, which means we follow your newborn’s cues and never rush the process. We use gentle posing techniques and, when needed, a spotter to keep your baby safe during certain setups. Any supporting hands are carefully removed through professional composite editing so the final image looks natural and seamless. Our studio, props, and blankets are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized between sessions to provide a fresh, safe, and welcoming space for your family. We have years of specialized training for working with newborns and extensive methods to soothe them should they need some extra TLC!