Preparing Your Home for an In-Home Family Photography Session

As a Seattle-based photographer, I love capturing the beauty of families in the comfort of their own homes. An in-home session is a great way to showcase your family's personality and style, but it does require a bit of prep work. Don't worry, I'm here to guide you through it!

Simple Steps to Get Your Home Ready

1. Make the beds: A made bed is a happy bed! Take a few minutes to tidy up the bedrooms and make the beds. This will help create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

2. Put away clutter: Quickly put away any clutter, toys, or items you don't want photographed. This will help declutter the space and make it easier for me to capture the beauty of your home.

3. Straighten artwork: Take a few minutes to straighten any artwork, photos, or decorations. This will help create a polished and put-together look.

4. Focus on 2-3 spaces: We'll focus on 2-3 spaces in your home that have good natural light. This could be a living room, kitchen, or bedroom. Let's make these spaces shine!

5. Open up shades: Open up those shades and let the natural light in! This will help create a bright and airy atmosphere.

6. Turn off artificial lights: Please turn off any artificial lights, including overhead lights and lamps. Natural light is always best, and it will help create a warm and cozy glow.

7. Add some greenery: If you have some fresh flowers or greenery, consider adding them to the space. This will add a pop of color and texture to the photos.

Tips and Tricks

Don't worry too much about perfection – I want to capture the real you!

If you have pets that you don’t want photographed, you could have someone take them for a walk during the session. However, pets are family and they are always welcome.

- If you have a special item or heirloom, please let me know ahead of time so we can incorporate it into the session.

Why Choose an In-Home Session?

An in-home session is a great way to capture the beauty of your family and home. It's relaxed, comfortable, and allows us to capture the little moments that make your family unique.

As a Seattle-based photographer, I'm passionate about delivering personalized and stress-free family photography sessions that capture the love and connection of each family.

Contact me today to schedule your in-home family session and capture the beauty of your home.

Timing is Everything: When to Schedule Your Newborn Session

As a Seattle-based newborn photographer, I often get asked, "How soon after birth should we do a newborn session?" The answer is, it depends on what you're looking for.

If you're dreaming of sleepy newborn pictures, I recommend scheduling your session in the first couple of weeks after birth. During this time, babies tend to sleep more, making it easier to capture those adorable curled-up poses. You'll also get to preserve all the tiny newborn details, like the umbilical cord stump, flaky skin, and sweet baby fuzz.

Benefits of a Session in the First Few Days:

- Baby is more likely to be sleeping

- Preserves the tiny newborn details

- Captures the newborn smell and feel

- Mom and baby are still adjusting to the new routine, so it's a great way to capture the early bonding moments

However, if you're looking for a more alert and interactive baby, waiting until closer to the one-month mark might be the way to go. At this stage, babies are more awake and curious, making for some adorable and playful photos.

Benefits of Waiting Until Closer to One Month:

- Baby is more alert and interactive

- Mom has had more recovery time, especially if she had a rough labor

- Baby's skin has cleared up, making for a smoother complexion

- You can capture the baby's personality starting to shine through

As a lifestyle photographer, I believe any time in the first month is ideal for capturing the magic of your newborn. We'll work together to create beautiful, natural, and authentic photos that you'll treasure for years to come.

Why Choose a Seattle Newborn Photographer?

As a Seattle-based photographer, I'm passionate about delivering personalized and stress-free newborn sessions that capture the unique beauty of each family. With an in-home lifestyle session, I'll work with you to create stunning photos that you'll cherish forever.

Contact me today to schedule your newborn session and capture the magic of your baby's first month.

Why an In-Home Family Session is a Great Option for Fall Photos

As the leaves change colors and the crisp autumn air sets in, many families are looking for ways to capture the beauty of the season with their loved ones.

While outdoor photo sessions can be stunning, they often come with challenges like unpredictable weather and crowded parks. That's why an in-home family session is a great option for fall photos this year.

No Weather Worries

With an in-home session, you don't have to worry about the weather ruining your photos. No more scrambling to find a backup location or dealing with rain delays. We can take our time and capture beautiful moments in the comfort of your own home.

No Need to Wait for Golden Hour

Golden hour can be a popular time for outdoor photo sessions, but it can also be stressful trying to get everyone ready and in position at the perfect time. With an in-home session, we can work around your family's schedule and capture beautiful photos at a time that works for you.

Cozy and Intimate

Your home is where the heart is, and it's the perfect place to capture the warmth and love of your family. An in-home session allows us to create a cozy and intimate atmosphere that's perfect for fall photos. We'll capture the unique character of your home and the special bond between family members.

Kids are Happiest at Home

Let's face it, kids can be unpredictable and often struggle in new environments. By having the session at home, your kids will feel more comfortable and relaxed, resulting in more natural and authentic photos.

Bare Feet are Best

One of the best things about an in-home session is that we can ditch the shoes and capture those sweet barefoot moments. No need to worry about matching shoes to outfits or dealing with sand and dirt – we can focus on capturing the beauty of your family just as they are.

Why Choose an In-Home Session in Seattle?

If you're looking for a Seattle area family photographer who can capture the unique beauty of your family in the comfort of your own home, I'm here to help. As a Seattle-based photographer, I'm passionate about delivering personalized and stress-free family photography sessions that showcase the love and connection of each family.

Get in Touch

Contact me today to schedule your in-home family session and capture the beauty of your family this fall.

Top Tips for a Seattle Area Fall Family Photography Session

As the leaves change colors and the crisp autumn air sets in, the Seattle area transforms into a picturesque paradise perfect for family photography sessions.

If you're looking to capture the beauty of fall with your loved ones, here are some top tips to make your session a success.

Choosing the Perfect Location

The Seattle area offers a variety of stunning locations for fall family photography sessions. Some of our favorites include:

- Discovery Park: With its lush greenery, scenic overlooks, and stunning views of the Olympic Mountains, Discovery Park is a popular choice for fall family photos.

- Mukilteo Beach: The combination of beachy textures, driftwood, and fall colors makes Mukilteo Beach a beautiful spot for capturing family memories.

- Your own home: Sometimes the best location is right in your own backyard! Consider using your home as the backdrop for your family photos if you want your images to feel warm and cozy.

Outfit Suggestions

When it comes to outfits, we recommend choosing warm, earthy tones that complement the fall colors. Some great options include:

- Earthy tones like olive green, terracotta, and golden brown

- Rich jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and burgundy

- Cozy sweaters, scarves, and boots to add texture and depth to your photos

Tips for a Stress-Free Session

To ensure that your session goes smoothly, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

- Plan ahead: Check the weather forecast and plan your session accordingly. If it's going to be a rainy day, consider moving the session to an indoor location.

- Bring snacks and drinks: Keeping everyone fueled and energized will help keep the mood light and fun.

- Be prepared for changing weather: Bring extra clothes and layers to ensure everyone stays warm and comfortable.

- Relax and have fun: The most important thing is to enjoy the experience and have fun with your family!

Why Choose Fall for Your Family Photos? Fall is a beautiful time of year to capture family photos, with the changing leaves, crisp air, and cozy atmosphere. The fall season offers a unique opportunity to capture the beauty of nature and the love and connection of your family.

As a Seattle-based photographer, I'm passionate about delivering personalized and stress-free family photography sessions that capture the unique spirit of each family. If you're looking to schedule a fall family photography session, I'd love to chat with you about how we can create some beautiful memories together.

Contact me today to schedule your fall family photography session and capture the beauty of the season.

Tips for a Smooth and Stress-Free Maternity Session

As an expectant mother, your maternity session is a special opportunity to celebrate the beauty of your pregnancy and capture the love and excitement of this momentous time. To ensure that your session goes as smoothly as possible, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Tip #1: Eat Before the Session

Make sure to eat a nutritious meal or snack before your session to keep your energy levels up. You'll want to feel comfortable and relaxed during the photoshoot, and having a full stomach can help. Don't forget to bring some snacks for your partner and any older siblings who may be joining in on the fun!

Tip #2: Try On Outfits Ahead of Time

Try on your outfits ahead of time to ensure they fit well and are comfortable. You want to feel confident and beautiful in front of the camera, so take some time to find the perfect outfits that make you feel like the best version of yourself.

Tip #3: Prep Your Older Siblings

If you have older siblings joining in on the session, take some time to prepare them for what to expect. Explain that you'll be taking pictures and that they'll get to be part of the fun. You can even show them some examples of poses or activities they can do during the session to help them feel more comfortable.

Tip #4: Get Your Nails Done

A fresh manicure can make a big difference in your photos. Consider getting your nails done a day or two before your session to ensure they look their best. You can also coordinate your nail color with your outfits for a polished look.

Tip #5: Bring a Hair Tie or Bobby Pins

If you have long hair, consider bringing a hair tie or bobby pins to keep your hair out of your face during the session. This can help create a more polished look and prevent any stray hairs from getting in the way.

Tip #6: Plan for the Unexpected

Things don't always go as planned, especially with kids involved. Be prepared for unexpected moments and don't stress if things don't go exactly as planned. Your photographer will work with you to capture beautiful moments, even if they're unplanned.

Tip #7: Relax and Have Fun

The most important thing to remember is to relax and have fun. Your maternity session is a celebration of your pregnancy and the love that you share with your family. Enjoy the experience and let your photographer capture the joy and beauty of this special time.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your maternity session is a smooth and stress-free experience. You'll be able to relax, have fun, and capture beautiful memories that you'll treasure for years to come.

As a Seattle-based photographer, I'm passionate about delivering personalized and stress-free maternity sessions that capture the unique beauty of each family. If you're expecting a baby and would like to schedule a maternity session, I'd love to chat with you about how we can create some beautiful memories together.

Top Tips for an In-Home Lifestyle Newborn Session

As a Seattle-based lifestyle photographer specializing in newborn photography, I've had the privilege of capturing the precious early days of countless families in the comfort of their own homes.

In-home lifestyle newborn sessions are a beautiful way to preserve the magic of this special time, and with a few simple tips, you can ensure that your session is relaxed, enjoyable, and stress-free.

Tip #1:

Prepare a Cozy Space

Before our session, take some time to tidy up your living room or main bedroom. A clutter-free space will help us focus on the beautiful moments we're capturing, and ensure that your home looks its best in photos. Don't worry too much about perfection – a little bit of character and personality in your home is what makes it unique!

Tip #2:

Keep Things Simple

When it comes to outfits for your newborn, simplicity is key. Choose a few simple, neutral-colored onesies or sleepers that will complement your home and family. Avoid bold patterns or bright colors that might distract from the natural beauty of your baby.

Tip #3:

Be Prepared for Anything

Newborns can be unpredictable, so it's essential to be prepared for anything. Make sure you have plenty of diapers, wipes, and pacifiers on hand, and don't worry if your baby gets fussy or needs a feeding during the session. We'll work around your baby's schedule and needs to ensure that everyone is comfortable and relaxed.

Tip #4:

Snacks and Refreshments

Having some snacks and drinks on hand can be a lifesaver during our session. New mamas often need to eat frequently, and having some nourishment nearby can help keep everyone energized and focused.

Tip #5:

Relax and Enjoy the Moment

The most important thing to remember is to relax and enjoy the moment. Our session is all about capturing the beauty of your family, so take a deep breath, be yourself, and let me do the rest. I'll guide you through the process, and we'll create some beautiful, timeless images that you'll treasure for years to come.

Why Choose In-Home Lifestyle Newborn Sessions? In-home lifestyle newborn sessions are a beautiful way to capture the magic of your baby's early days in the comfort of your own home. By choosing an in-home session, you'll avoid the stress of traveling to a studio, and we'll be able to capture the unique personality and character of your home and family.

As a Seattle-based lifestyle photographer, I'm passionate about delivering personalized, stress-free sessions that cater to your family's unique needs. If you're expecting a baby or have recently welcomed a new addition to your family, I'd love to chat with you about capturing your newborn's special moments.

Contact me today to schedule your in-home lifestyle newborn session and preserve the magic of your baby's early days.

Navigating Newborn Photography Sessions with Toddlers: What to Expect

As a Seattle-based newborn photographer, I've had the privilege of capturing the precious early days of countless families. When there's a toddler in the mix, sessions can be a bit more unpredictable, but with a gentle and flexible approach, we can still create beautiful, timeless images that your family will treasure for years to come.

Understanding the Dynamic

When there's a toddler present, our session will naturally unfold a bit differently. Toddlers, especially those under the age of three, can be unpredictable and may not always want to participate in photos. That's completely okay! Our goal is to create a relaxed and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

How We'll Structure Our Session

To ensure that we capture a variety of beautiful images, we'll follow a gentle and flexible structure:

1. Family Pictures

We'll start by capturing some family photos, including everyone together. This helps set the tone for the session and allows us to get some lovely shots of your family bonding.

2. Sibling Photos (If Toddler is Willing)

Next, we'll try to capture some sweet sibling photos. If your toddler is feeling cooperative, we'll take advantage of the opportunity. However, if they're not in the mood, we'll simply move on to the next part of the session.

3. Toddler Break

After we've finished the sibling photos, one parent will take the toddler out for a break. This allows your little one to rest, snack, or engage in an activity that brings them joy.

4. One Parent and Baby

While the toddler is on break, we'll capture some beautiful photos of one parent with the baby. This is a wonderful opportunity to focus on the special bond between parent and child.

5. Parent Swap

Once we've finished photographing one parent with the baby, we'll swap parents and repeat the process. This ensures that both parents have the opportunity to be photographed with their new baby.

6. Both Parents and Baby (If Possible)

If time allows and everyone is feeling relaxed, we'll try to capture some photos of both parents with the baby. These are often some of the most treasured images from our session.

7. Final Family Photos (If Toddler is Willing)

If your toddler has returned from their break and is feeling cooperative, we'll try to capture some final family photos. This is a wonderful way to end our session and create some lasting memories.

Tips for a Successful Session

To ensure that our session runs smoothly, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

- Be patient and flexible. Toddlers can be unpredictable, so it's essential to roll with the punches.

- Have snacks and toys handy to keep your toddler occupied during the session.

- Consider having another adult present to help manage the toddler and provide an extra set of hands.

Conclusion

Newborn photography sessions with toddlers require a gentle and flexible approach. By understanding the dynamic and structuring our session in a way that accommodates your toddler's needs, we can create beautiful, timeless images that your family will treasure for years to come.

As a Seattle-based newborn photographer, I'm passionate about delivering personalized, stress-free sessions that cater to your family's unique needs. If you're expecting a baby or have recently welcomed a new addition to your family, I'd love to chat with you about capturing your newborn's special moments.

Get in Touch

Contact me today to schedule your session and preserve the magic of your baby's early days.

Preserving the Magic of New Beginnings: Why Hire a Professional Newborn Photographer?

As a new parent, the arrival of your baby is a momentous occasion filled with joy, love, and endless wonder. The first few weeks of your baby's life are a whirlwind of emotions, sleepless nights, and precious moments that you'll treasure forever. As a Seattle lifestyle photographer specializing in newborn photography, I've had the privilege of capturing these fleeting moments for countless families.

Why Hire a Professional Newborn Photographer?

In today's digital age, it's tempting to try to capture your baby's early days yourself. However, there are several reasons why hiring a professional newborn photographer is a worthwhile investment:

1. Expertise and Experience

A professional newborn photographer has the training, experience, and expertise to safely and gently pose your baby, ensuring that they're comfortable and secure throughout the session. We understand how to work with newborns, anticipating and capturing their unique personalities and quirks.

2. Quality of Images

While smartphone cameras have improved significantly, they still can't replace the quality and depth of images captured by a professional camera and lens. A professional newborn photographer will deliver high-resolution, beautifully edited images that you'll treasure for years to come.

3. Timeless and Authentic Images

Lifestyle newborn photography focuses on capturing the authentic, everyday moments of your family's life. By hiring a professional photographer, you'll receive timeless, natural images that reflect your family's unique love and connection.

4. Preserving Memories

The early days of parenthood can be overwhelming, and it's easy to forget the tiny details that make this time so special. By hiring a professional newborn photographer, you'll preserve these memories for years to come, creating a beautiful legacy for your family.

5. Relaxation and Enjoyment

Finally, hiring a professional newborn photographer allows you to relax and enjoy this special time with your baby. We'll take care of capturing the moments, so you can focus on soaking up every snuggle, cuddle, and coo.

Investing in Your Family's Legacy

As a Seattle newborn photographer, I've seen firsthand the joy and gratitude that families experience when they receive their beautiful, professional photos. By investing in a professional newborn photography session, you're not only preserving the magic of your baby's early days but also creating a lasting legacy for your family.

Get in Touch

If you're expecting a baby or have recently welcomed a new addition to your family, I'd love to chat with you about capturing your newborn's special moments. As a Seattle lifestyle photographer specializing in newborn photography, I'm passionate about delivering beautiful, timeless images that you'll treasure for years to come. Contact me today to schedule your session and preserve the magic of your baby's early days.

A Peek into Our Time Together: What to Expect at a Lifestyle Newborn Session

The arrival of your newborn is a momentous occasion, filled with joy, love, and endless wonder. As a Seattle-based lifestyle newborn photographer, I'm honored to be a part of preserving these precious early days for you and your family. If you're expecting a baby or have recently welcomed a new addition to your family, you might be wondering what to expect during a lifestyle newborn session. Below, I'll walk you through what our time together will look like, so you can feel relaxed, prepared, and excited for our session.

A Relaxed and Intimate Approach

Lifestyle newborn sessions are all about capturing the authentic, unscripted moments of your family's life. That's why we'll be spending our time together in the comfort of your own home. This relaxed environment allows your baby to feel safe and secure, and enables us to capture the genuine love and connection that fills your family.

A Typical Session

When I arrive at your home, we'll start with a casual chat about your family, your baby, and what you're looking forward to capturing during our session. This is a great opportunity for us to get to know each other, and for me to understand what makes your family unique. Next, we'll take some time to get comfortable and settle in. I might ask you to feed, cuddle, or simply be with your baby while I capture some photos. These quiet moments are often the most precious, and they provide a beautiful backdrop for our session. As we move through our time together, I'll gently guide you through some simple, natural poses and interactions. These might include snuggling on the couch, reading a book together, or simply enjoying some quiet time as a family.

Embracing the Imperfections

One of the things I love most about lifestyle newborn sessions is the way they celebrate the imperfections and unpredictability of life with a new baby. Your home might be a little messy, your baby might be a little fussy, and that's perfectly okay. In fact, it's often these imperfect moments that lead to the most beautiful, authentic photos. So, don't worry too much about creating a perfect environment or achieving a specific look. Instead, simply relax, be yourselves, and let me take care of the rest.

After the Session

Once our session comes to a close, I'll get to work editing and perfecting your photos. This usually takes around 2-3 weeks, after which I'll share a beautiful gallery of images with you. From there, you can choose your favorite photos, order prints or digital files, and start sharing your stunning newborn photos with friends and family.

Conclusion

A lifestyle newborn session is a beautiful way to preserve the magic of your baby's early days. By keeping things relaxed, intimate, and authentic, we'll create a collection of photos that you'll treasure for years to come.

If you're looking for a Seattle newborn photographer who specializes in lifestyle sessions, I'd love to chat with you more about your needs and preferences. Simply get in touch, and we'll start planning a session that's tailored to your unique family and style.

What to Dress Your Newborn in for Their Photo Session

As a Seattle newborn photographer, I've had the privilege of capturing the precious early days of countless little ones. When it comes to dressing your newborn for their photo session, simplicity and comfort are key. In this post, we'll explore the best options for keeping your baby cozy and stylish during their session.

Plain and Simple: The Power of Neutral Tones

When it comes to dressing your newborn for their photo session, it's best to stick with plain, neutral-colored onesies or sleepers. These timeless choices allow your baby's sweet face to take center stage, while avoiding any distracting patterns or bright colors. Neutral tones like white, cream, gray, or beige are always a winner, as they complement your baby's delicate skin and don't compete with their adorable features.

Special Touches: Blankets and Wraps

In addition to a plain onesie or sleeper, it's lovely to have a special blanket or muslin wrap on hand to add some texture and visual interest to your photos. These soft, cozy layers can also help keep your baby snug and comfortable during the session. Choose a blanket or wrap in a neutral color that complements your baby's outfit, and we'll work together to incorporate it into your photos.

Why Timeless Matters:

When choosing what to dress your newborn in for their photo session, it's essential to consider the timeless factor. Trends come and go, but classic, simple styles will always be in vogue. By opting for neutral tones and avoiding bold patterns or bright colors, you'll ensure that your photos remain beautiful and relevant for years to come.

Conclusion:

Your newborn photo session is a special time to capture the magic of those early days. By dressing your baby in a plain, neutral-colored onesie or sleeper, and incorporating a special blanket or wrap, you'll help create timeless, beautiful photos that you'll treasure forever.

As a Seattle newborn photographer, I'm here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring that your session is relaxed, enjoyable, and results in stunning photos that you'll love for years to come.

Contact Me

If you're expecting a baby or looking for a newborn photographer in Seattle, I'd love to chat with you about your session. Please don't hesitate to reach out and let's work together to capture the beauty and wonder of your little one's early days.