NEWBORN SESSION PREP GUIDE
You will never regret capturing these moments - the ones before you become a mama, and the ones when baby has arrived. It's fleeting, but it's so special. It's your first chapter of motherhood.
This page is a hub for all of the details, styling and prep for your experience with Next Chapter Studio.
Thank you for letting me be a small part in this beautiful time for you.
THIS CHAPTER, DOCUMENTED.
Booking your session
I recommend booking your session early and reaching out to me in the first trimester. Your newborn session will tentatively be scheduled for around 1-2 weeks after your baby's due date. Once you give birth, you will reach out to me and we will adjust that date if needed! I recommend doing your photos as close to birth as possible for that newborn sleepiness. However, I know birth can be unpredictable and how you are feeling is most important!
Styling
1. Coordinate, don't match
Choose a coordinating palette and dress everyone in shades of the palette.
2. Neutral & muted colors
Whites, creams, tans, browns and pastels photograph beautifully. Say no to neon and logos!
3. Babies: 2-3 outfits
Based on how babies are doing, we can do 2-3 outfits during the session. Swaddles, sets, gowns and linen pieces are all great options.
4. Moms: Flowy and flattering
Choose outfits that flow with movement.. Dresses are ideal for this because they’re comfortable and create that soft, feminine look. Sets are a great option as well.
5. Dads: Simple and coordinated
Dads just need to be clean, comfortable and coordinated. For dads, I recommend neutral button-downs, henleys and knit sweaters. Pair tops like these with jeans or khakis!.
What you wear truly matters when it comes to your newborn session. The right outfit can make you feel comfortable, confident and completely yourself - which always shows in photos. The goal is for everyone to feel comfortable and look cohesive. We’ll talk ahead of time to make sure you feel confident and relaxed.
Client Closet
Tips
If children are joining the session, choose soft fabrics in complementary tones. Try linen rompers, textured knits or neutral basics.
Click here to see a Pinterest board with outfit inspo.
Tips for Siblings
color palette
EASY TO COORDINATE
Think about it: You are trying to color coordinate outfits for you and your family. It is so much trickier to match color hues than it is to match neutrals and one pop of color.
TIMELESS & FLATTERING
Even when trends change, neutrals will always be in style. You want to look at your photographs and see the connections, not the distracting clothing.
DISPLAYING THE PHOTOGRAPHS
No matter what your home decor is or what color the nursery is, neutral tones in your photographs will always be perfect to display - they will go with everything!
Why neutrals?
Find styling and outfit inspiration on Next Chapter's Pinterest board here:
Find pieces hand picked by Ty on Next Chapter's Amazon storefront here:
Recommended places to shop: Caden Lane, Target, Old Navy for the babies
Worth Collective, Baltic Born, Amazon, Pink Blush for the mamas
Day of your session
- Your outfits
- Shoes (If it's a studio session, please pack the shoes for the session in a separate bag to change into)
- Diaper bag with baby essentials
- Any sentimental items you’d like included - baby shoes, monogrammed outfits/blankets, heirlooms
If older siblings are joining, you can bring a crumb-free & stain-free snack + water and a few small toys or books for breaks.
Studio session? What to bring:
Feed baby 30 minutes before the session begins to ensure they have a nice, full belly. Be prepared to also feed a time or two during your session. If your session is at home, make sure the rooms you'd like photos in are picked up and ready.
How to prep:
We’ll begin your session with full family portraits and build from there. If it's an at home session, I will also get details of the nursery in the beginning. Next, we’ll photograph sibling and dad combinations so they’re not left waiting. After that, we’ll focus on mom and baby together, saving baby’s individual portraits for the very end. By this point, your little one will be extra cozy and sleepy from all the snuggles - making it the perfect time for those sweet solo images.
The flow of the day:
Find newborn session inspiration on Next Chapter's Pinterest board here:
frequently
asked
QUESTIONS
WHAT DOES A SESSION INCLUDE?
Each session includes a questionnaire, full access to the Client Closet + this prep guide with styling tips and a professional online gallery of your digital images.
WHERE IS YOUR STUDIO?
It is located in Hudson Falls, NY. The studios are over 1,500 square feet - with multiple rooms, furniture and setup options, 12 foot ceilings and backdrops.
WHEN WILL I RECEIVE MY IMAGES?
Your entire gallery will be delivered to you within 7-10 days of your session through an online gallery. There, you can favorite, download and share any images.
CAN YOU HELP ME WITH STYLING?
Absolutely! I would love to. During the planning process, we can chat about outfits, look at some inspiration for ideas and take a look at the Client Closet.
Instagrammin'
Head on over and follow me on Instagram for a look at sessions, styling & everything in between.
