Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to book your Maternity and Newborn sessions?
Best way is to book them together and early during your pregnancy, so you can guarantee yourself a spot. Easiest way is to contact me via my website and I will forward you all the information on session, packages and payment options. It is never too early to book a session and of course you can get in touch at anytime if you have any questions.
The actual date of your newborn session will not be known until your baby arrives, but I would expect you to contact me within 48 hours of giving a birth, so we can confirm a date of your photoshoot.
If you decided to do Newborn session shortly after giving birth, then all is not lost and I will do my best to fit you in, but you need to contact me ASAP.
General timing:
Maternity Sessions, third trimester, between 29-36 weeks
Newborn Sessions, best time to have it between 5-12 days after birth
What is the best age to photograph my newborn?
Sessions are done in my natural light home studio, newborn sessions are typically 3-4 hours.
Please note the perfect age for a newborn shoot is when your baby is BETWEEN 5 – 12 DAYS OLD. Under 2 weeks newborns still have that magical womb like behaviour that allows their fresh miraculous newborn look to be captured undisturbed. With only a window of a few days you have only one chance to capture that moment before it passes you by.
If you miss the newborn stage, it will be still possible to photograph your baby, however, the images might not look similar to the pictures on my portfolio. After 14 days old, newborns are not as sleepy and they do not curl up easily. For older babies I plan for more swaddle set ups and I take more awake shots.
What to expect at the newborn session?
Prior to every session, I go over all the details with my clients, thier session theme, flow and set ups. I ask about their favorite colors and style preferences they want me to use for their photoshoot. Please send me inspiration images from my portfolio, so I can get a better sense of what you are looking for. On the day of your photoshoot, all set ups will be ready prior to your arrival to make the process as smooth as possible.
Baby’s comfort and safety is my number one priority during session. My studio is heated for baby’s comfort (it gets very warm), so please dress accordingly. I usually do 3-5 setups per session (depends on the package), please find newborn packages details here. Also I pay special attention to cleanliness and sanitation; all props, toys, wraps and outfits are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized.
If session includes family and sibling photographs, I will start by posing the baby with the sibling and then move on to parents’ shots. Once we finish family part, it is a good idea for one of the parents to take sibling home or for a walk, so we could focus on the newborn. Newborn sessions require a very quiet and calm atmosphere. I will be using baby shusher (white noise) during session, as it helps baby to stay relaxed and sleepy.
Please feel yourself at home, relax while I pose and photograph your little model. There is water, tea and coffee available and you are welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks.
Can you do a newborn session at my home?
Currently, I do not offer any out of studio newborn sessions. All newborn sessions are held at my studio in Scottsdale Downtown, as it is perfectly set up to accommodate your baby and has all needed props, tools and light.
How can I book a photo session with you?
The best way to contact me is by sending me an email via the contact page. Complete the short contact form so I can better understand of what you are looking for and get back to you with all the answers within 24 hours.
In order to book your session, you would need to pay 50% retainer. Once deposit is made, I will send you booking confirmation and session details.
For newborn sessions, please contact me within 48 hours of giving a birth, and we will decide on the day of your actual session. Once we confirm the day of the photoshoot, we will go over your session, timing and how to best prepare for it.
Do you provide props?
YES, I have everything available in my studio. When booking a session, you get access to my high-end prop gallery, outfits, wraps, headbands, wreaths, backdrops, floors etc. You do not have to worry about any of that.
When am I going to receive my photos?
You will receive your digital color corrected gallery in about a week. Then, you can choose your favorites for artistic editing. Once, you select your favorites, please allow 2 weeks to receive your edited digital gallery.
Rescheduling and Cancellation Policy
I put baby’s comfort and safety first, In the event of an illness, please call as soon as possible to reschedule. If I get sick, during the week of your session, I will notify you and we will have to reschedule. Please note, your deposit in not refundable, but in case of cancelation, you can use it towards different session within 6 months of the original scheduled date.
What can I do to help session go smoothly?
The BEST thing you can do is to let go and enjoy! I know it’s hard not to be stressed before your session, but babies pick up on anxiety really easily. We’ll have the best chance at getting gorgeous images if we let them happen naturally (with a little guidance from me, of course) I want your pictures to be amazing and will do all the hard work for you! Your only job is to relax and have fun.
What should we wear?
We will discuss your colors, theme, and style before the session; will also go over clothes, hair/makeup, and other useful tips to help eliminate stress from your experience.
Generally, I recommend that parents keep their clothing simple in order to keep the focus on baby. Think neutrals (grey/ivory/beige), or soft colors like pastel pink/blue. Textures like lace and soft knits add interest without competing for attention.
What do you do about COVID – 19 / Cleaning and Sanitation protocol?
I pay special attention to cleanliness and sanitation of the studio surfaces, props, and outfits in order to provide clean, germ free and safe environment for your family. All the props and outfits are carefully cleaned and washed after every session, and sanitized again before the next one.
In addition, I check everyone’s temperature upon arrival, use mask and gloves during session as well as provide hand sanitizer to my clients.
Is parking available at your location?
Yes, my Studio Boutique is located at Plaza Codorniz in Scottsdale Downtown; there is always plenty of parking available at the plaza. You can park near building B, and look for Suite 243 where my studio is located.