Posts tagged featured newborn post

LUCKY FRIDAY STUDIOS DENVER NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHER

After more than a decade of creating beautiful heirlooms for busy families, I’ve established my process to ensure I am able to create authentic images that are a true representation of your family and the love you have for each other. My goal has always been to give my clients a fun, relaxed experience that results in gorgeous artwork you’ll be proud to pass down to your children. I only accept a limited number of maternity, newborn, baby and family sessions each month so that I am able to properly invest the necessary amount of time on each one. I’m honored to be on this journey with you!

Walking you through each step of my process helps me deliver the exceptional experience I’m known for and knowing what to expect during your newborn session can help ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience. From selecting the right photographer to having a plan for how you are going to enjoy your final images, this guide will walk you through every step of my process.

MAKE SURE YOU ARE CHOOSING THE RIGHT PHOTOGRAPHER

Selecting a newborn photographer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. It is so important to have someone who specializes in newborn photography, has experience handling infants, and follows safety protocols. It is also incredibly important that my style aligns with your vision! I truly believe that this is the most important way to begin your process. 20 or 30 years from now you probably won’t remember many details from your session, but the artwork from this special time in your lives will last for generations to come.

RESERVE YOUR SESSION

Once you inquire, I’ll send you my full pricing information. I’m always happy to get on a call so we can begin to get to know each other and ensure we are a good fit as well. Your spot with me is reserved once you submit your session or membership fee. If you are booking a newborn session, I ask that you put me on your VIP list and let me know as soon as baby arrives. You will choose the actual date for your session based on how you are feeling at that time.

SESSION & WARDROBE PLANNING

It’s important to me that your session is a beautiful representation of your family. I’ll send over my Portrait Planning & Style Guide right away so you could dive right into the fun stuff, like what you want to wear. You are welcome to use items from my Client Wardrobe if you'd like along with items from your own wardrobe. We’ll chat after you start to get an idea of what you are interested in to make sure we're both on the same page with the creative direction for your session!

WHEN TO SCHEDULE YOUR SESSION

Newborn sessions are typically scheduled within the first two weeks of life. During this period, babies are still very sleepy and flexible, making it easier to work with them. However, if your baby is older, don’t worry—we will still capture beautiful images!

FINAL CHECK IN

I’ll touch base a day or 2 before your session to make sure everyone is good to go (that includes Mother Nature). If there is any need to reschedule because of weather, bad roads, illness or anything else, no need to worry! I only accept around 8 clients a month so that I am able to give my clients as much flexibility as possible! I’m a parent too and I’ve got you!

PREPARE FOR YOUR SESSION

To help your session run smoothly, follow these preparation tips:

Don’t Stress Too Much! I’ve been doing this for over 15 years and I give us plenty of time to make sure we can get all of the images you are dreaming of even if baby needs extra time to feed and settle. Your session will be fun!
Keep Baby Well-Fed: A well-fed baby is a happy baby. Try to feed your baby right before the session to ensure they are sleepy and content. If that doesn’t work out schedule wise though, no worries. There is plenty of time to feed your baby during your session.
Dress Baby in Easy-to-Remove Clothing: A simple onesie or outfit that doesn’t go over baby’s head makes it easier to transition them without disturbing their sleep.
Bring Essentials: Have snacks, extra diapers, wipes, and pacifiers on hand. If you aren’t nursing, bring more bottles than you think you’ll need.
Be Ready to Be in the Photos: Even though the focus is on your baby, I love to include parents and siblings in many shots!

If you’ve chosen my studio for your session, it is private and cozy so come prepared to settle in and make yourself at home! I have a private dressing and nursing room, a bathroom inside the studio, a kitchen and plenty of room for little ones to safely run around. You can relax and enjoy drinks and snacks while having fun creating gorgeous images together. A newborn session can last anywhere from 2 to 3 hours, allowing time for feeding, soothing, and changing. Here’s a general breakdown of what to expect

PURCHASE IMAGES & ARTWORK

Within 3 weeks of your session, your fully edited images will be ready for viewing through your private online gallery so you only need to purchase what you love. Instant digital downloads will be available for purchase at this time. Once you purchase the images of your choice, your gallery will remain live so that you can download your favorite images, order any additional products and gifts that you’d like and of course share your gallery with friends and family.

RINSE AND REPEAT!

It’s crazy how fast these little ones grow (especially during a baby’s first year)! If you have a membership with me, the spot for your next milestone session will automatically be reserved for you on my calendar when you are ready to schedule! I’m always available to offer support after your session at any time and am honored that many of my families come back and trust me with annual portraits year after year!

For some awesome tips on what to expect for a newborn + toddler sibling photo session check out this wonderful post from my friend Mary Beth - she is the most amazing Pittsburgh photographer!

Kami VanousMarch 11, 2025featured newborn post Comments

The Best Time To Do Newborn Photos

The Best Time to Do Newborn Photos: A Guide for NEW Parents

Welcoming a new baby into the world is one of the most magical experiences in life. Those tiny fingers, delicate features, and sweet newborn expressions change so quickly, making a newborn session one of the most amazing and important way to preserve these precious early days. If you’re considering scheduling a newborn photo session, you may be wondering: when is the best time to capture these beautiful memories?

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the ideal timeframe for newborn portraits, what to expect at different stages, and tips for ensuring a successful session.

The Ideal Time for Newborn Photography: Days 1 to 14

The best time to photograph a newborn is typically within the first 14 days after birth. Here’s why:

Sleepy and Curled Up – In the first two weeks, newborns sleep deeply and naturally curl up in fetal positions, making it easier to get through a session and document how tiny they are.
Minimal Skin Issues – Newborns are born with soft, smooth skin. Around the two-week mark, some babies develop baby acne, peeling skin, or other minor blemishes, which can make editing more challenging.
Fewer Startle Reflexes – Younger babies tend to be less fidgety, with fewer sudden movements, making it easier to capture calm, peaceful images.

Because of these factors, I recommend booking your session well before birth and scheduling it within the first two weeks of life.

What If You Miss the Two-Week Window?

While the first two weeks are ideal, that doesn’t mean you can’t get beautiful photos if your baby is a little older! Here’s what to expect at different stages:

2 to 6 Weeks Old

Babies become more alert and start to stretch out, so your session might last a bit longer.
You’ll likely get more awake shots with cute expressions and eye contact.
Some newborn characteristics, such as the tiny curled-up look, may start to fade.
This stage is great for a mix of awake and sleeping portraits.

6 Weeks to 3 Months Old

Babies are more interactive, smiling, and beginning to show personality.
Classic newborn poses are usually not possible, but you can capture sweet expressions and interactions with parents.
Tummy time shots and family lifestyle sessions work beautifully at this stage.

3+ Months Old

Babies start to push up during tummy time, hold their heads up, and develop chubby cheeks and expressive eyes.
You’ll capture plenty of giggles and cute reactions!
While it’s no longer a “newborn” session, this is a wonderful milestone to document.

Tips for a Successful Newborn Photo Session

To make the most of your newborn photography experience, follow these simple tips:

1. Schedule Early

I sometimes book up months in advance, so it’s best to schedule your session during your pregnancy—ideally in your second or third trimester. Once your baby arrives, we can finalize the exact session date based on how you are feeling at that time.

2. Choose the Right Time of Day

Morning sessions often work best since babies tend to be sleepier and more settled. A well-rested baby is easier to work with and more likely to stay calm throughout the session. I like to aim for around 10 a.m.

3. Keep the Room Warm

Newborns are used to the warmth of the womb, so keeping the room at a comfortable temperature (around 75-80°F) can help them stay cozy and relaxed.

4. Feed Your Baby Before the Session

A full baby is a happy baby! Try to feed your little one right before the session to ensure they are calm and sleepy. Be prepared for feeding breaks if needed. I always reserve the studio for you with ample time in case your baby needs a bit of extra time for feeding and settling.

5. Dress Baby in Loose Clothing

Avoid tight clothing or anything that needs to be pulled over the head before your session, as it can leave marks on the baby’s skin. Instead, opt for a loose-fitting onesie that can be easily removed.

6. Be Patient and Relaxed

Newborn sessions can take time—typically 2 to 3 hours—to allow for feeding, soothing, and settling. Babies can be unpredictable, and that’s okay! A relaxed atmosphere helps ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.

Final Thoughts

The best time to do newborn photos is within the first two weeks after birth when babies are sleepiest, easiest to pose, and still have that fresh, newborn look. However, if you miss this window, don’t stress! Every stage of your baby’s development is beautiful and worth capturing.

Whether you choose a single newborn session or join my milestones membership to document your baby’s first year, what matters most is preserving these precious moments. They grow so fast—don’t miss the chance to document this incredible time in your baby’s life!

Be sure to check out my friend, Julie’s, awesome blog post about debunking 4 common myths about newborn photography! She is the best in Louisville newborn photography and always gives new parents the most wonderful information!

Kami VanousFebruary 27, 2025featured newborn post Comments

June | Centennial Newborn Session

Kami VanousJanuary 16, 2025featured newborn post Comments

Morrison | Centennial Newborn Session

Kami VanousJanuary 8, 2025featured newborn post Comments

The Best Time To Schedule Your Newborn Session

AND OTHER IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BOOK

Having a baby is one of the most exciting times in a person’s life but it can also be one of the most overwhelming. So today I’m going to answer the most often asked questions that I get. Hopefully this will help you feel like you can relax and check one of your most exciting to-do’s off of your list by booking your newborn session!

1. WHAT IS THE BEST AGE FOR A NEWBORN SESSION?

The most often asked question I get is “how old should my baby be for our session?”. Because I specialize in timeless, baby-led, lifestyle based images, I’ll tell you that it doesn’t matter to me how old your newborn is! I can create a beautiful gallery for you as soon as you are able to come into the studio! I love when babies are as young as possible because they are still tiny, sleepy and curled up. Sessions tend to be a bit easier because this. But that timeframe isn’t always possible for every family and that is never a problem. Slightly older newborns are growing adorable bellies and chunky legs and might even be able to make a bit of eye contact. The truth is that the perfect age for a newborn session is however old your baby is when you are able to make it in for your session!

2. HOW DO WE SCHEDULE THE ACTUAL SESSION WHEN BABIES AREN’T ALWAYS BORN ON TIME?

I love how easy I am able to make it for my clients to schedule sessions! I only book around 8 clients a month and I reserve time for you on my calendar as soon as you complete your booking with me. After that, all you need to do is put me on your VIP list and let me know as soon as your baby is born so you can pick the exact day and time for your session based on how you are feeling at that time. If your baby is born early or late - that’s okay! If things change and you need to reschedule, that is okay too. While many other photographers are renting busy, publicly shared studios to meet you at for your session, I have my own private studio so I am able to offer as much flexibility for my clients as possible. No reason to stress - I got you!

3. WHO SHOULD BE A PART OF OUR SESSION?

Your entire family is not only welcome, but encouraged to be a part of every session with me. That includes grandparents, special family members in town for the new baby and even well-behaved fur-babies! Think of how much it will mean for your baby to grow up with these gorgeous images of themselves with all of the special people who love them so much while they were so little! We are documenting some amazing moments in your life and having the whole family be a part of your session not only gives you a gallery with more variety, but those images will be a true gift for your family for generations to come.

4. ARE SESSIONS STRESSFUL?

SO stressful. Just kidding - they certainly don’t need to be! I’m in my 15th year in business and I pride myself on making my clients feel relaxed, calm and comfortable. Sessions are usually even fun! Even if you have a stubborn toddler who wants nothing to do with their sibling (or maybe a spouse who would prefer to have nothing to do with having photos of themselves taken) you can relax knowing that you are in good hands. I have tons of tricks for getting all of the special images you are dreaming of and endless patience!

5. ARE YOUR NEWBORN SESSIONS CONSIDERED LIFESTYLE OR POSED?

My newborn sessions are lifestyle based with very light posing. I love creating emotive images of babies being snuggled and loved on by their family. When it comes time for portraits of just your baby, I practice what is considered “baby-led” posing. “Baby-led” posing is a way to position your little one that is both comfortable and natural to them. It results in beautiful images that are timeless, classic and organic. I don’t spend hours getting your baby to sleep or posing them in any way that is forced and I avoid using props that might make your images feel dated or cluttered. This means that your session will be relaxed and laid-back. My goal is to create beautiful, clean images that keep the focus on your precious newborn and will stand the test of time.

6. HOW LONG DOES A NEWBORN SESSION LAST?

Newborn sessions are scheduled for 2-3 hours in the studio to ensure that we are not rushed if baby needs extra time to feed or settle. It also gives us time for outfit changes while making sure I get images of your baby alone, with siblings, parents and also the family all together. I recommend scheduling your session for a day where you do not have other commitments or appointments so that you can relax and enjoy this special experience. And although it sounds like a long time, clients always tell me how much fun they had and how quickly the session went by!

7. WHAT SHOULD WE WEAR?

You’ll have access to my Client Wardrobe filled with designer pieces for moms and babies through their 1st birthday session. For newborns I have perfect neutral colored organic onesies, chunky knit sweaters, wraps and more. You are also welcome to bring outfits and items from your own wardrobe. Together, we’ll make sure that your final images are a unique representation of your entire family. Those looking for an even more luxurious experience can add-on the services of my preferred wardrobe stylists and personal shoppers.

8. DO YOU RECOMMEND PROFESSIONAL HAIR & MAKE UP?

Having professional hair and make-up done before your session is a fabulous way to make sure you look and feel your best before your session. A fresh blow out, a relaxed, natural style and professional make up will photograph beautifully and can give your images an even more polished, high-end feel. I work with an amazing team of preferred stylists for clients who’d like to be pampered before their session.

9. HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR US TO RECEIVE OUR IMAGES AFTER OUR SESSION?

About 3 weeks after your session takes place, your art will be ready for viewing & ordering through your private online gallery. Instant digital downloads will be available for purchase at this time. You will be able to view all of your finished images along with custom curated artwork. Once you purchase the digital collection of your choice, your gallery will remain open so that you can download your images, spend your gift credit that comes with every digital collection and order any additional products and gifts that you’d like.

10. DO YOU OFFER A BABY PLAN?

Absolutely! I have a Milestones Membership program designed to make sure you are able to document all the important stages that you would like from maternity through baby’s first year - it’s truly one of my favorite things ever! Spots are limited based on my availability so please contact me for full information.