Tips for timing, choosing your outfits, preparing your home, and more!
MATERNITY +
LIFESTYLE NEWBORN SessionS
PLANNING YOUR
to THE MAIN WEBSITE
Hello friend!
Congratulations! I am so honored by the opportunity to capture this very special time in your lives. Booking a maternity and newborn package ensures that we capture the sweet moments before and after your little one joins the world.
Lifestyle newborn sessions are a wonderful, natural way to document this exciting and magical time. I will visit your home and capture you all in your natural element. My style emphasizes authentic moments with minimal “props” and without complicated posing. I invite you to relax, enjoy the time together as a family, and I will capture beautiful photos that you will treasure.
This guide has information to read as you prepare for your maternity session, and prior to your little one’s arrival. This will answer your questions and allow us to make the most of our time together. I aim to answer all of your questions upfront so you can relax and focus on making memories together with your newest addition. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask.
- Michelle
maternity
Maternity sessions can be scheduled at any time during your pregnancy. The "sweet spot" for when your belly is prominent but you are still feeling comfortable is generally between 28- 34 weeks. You may wish to schedule a bit later for a first pregnancy, or earlier if this is a subsequent pregnancy or you're expecting more than one, as your belly tends to be prominent earlier.
what to expect
for your maternity session
Scheduling
Before your session, I will send you an email to confirm our session location, where we will meet, and the session start-time. You’ll also receive a reminder to make your final payment (if applicable). If you have any questions leading up to your session, feel free to reach out. I'm available as a resource to you for questions big or small!
Before
On the day of your session, show up on-time and I'll take care of the rest. I'll offer prompting and guidance to have you all looking your best (and will even help you know what to do with your hands)! You can expect a fun and playful approach to your photos. I take LOTS of photos to make sure I get the great shots we need, so you may hear my shutter snapping rapidly. Together we'll capture the authentic memories you'll cherish for a lifetime, with a perfect blend of posed and candid photographs.
During
Sessions include a digital gallery with print release so you can download, share, and print your high-resolution images. I am to deliver your gallery within three weeks after your session, but timeline may vary depending on the type of session you booked. I offer online ordering of a variety of printed products, and would love to customize heirloom quality print products, so you can enjoy your memories for years to come.
After
session preparation
My goal is to keep you comfortable and feeling natural during your session.
Pregnancy is a magical time, but also comes with many changes and
sometimes discomforts. If you have any pain, insecurities, or other concerns,
feel free to share them with me. If at any time a pose feels uncomfortable or
you'd like to take some time to rest, do not be shy! I want you to have fun, feel
good, and love your photos!
I also recommend that you arrive rested and well-fed, and bring water and
snacks. Just let me know when you need a break!
on to the next
Choosing an Outfit
Long dresses (midi or maxi) are highly flattering for a pregnant mama. I tend to recommend dresses that are a little flowy over "body con" as the movement looks so beautiful on camera.
Sleeves or "off the shoulder" options are also a great choice, and very flattering!
Textured fabrics (think linen, crochet, or lace) look beautiful on camera.
In the cooler months, consider a chunky knit cardigan or cropped jacket for an additional layer.
on to the next
Choosing an Outfit
Lighter to medium colors generally photograph best for maternity and for my style of photography. I recommend neutrals wherever possible. Soft patterns (like a floral print) are also lovely.
In general, I recommend you avoid very dark colors (like solid black or navy) for your maternity outfit. First, the darker colors may hide your belly (which is what we want to feature) and dark colors have a way of showing every piece of lint or hair stuck to the fabric.
You are welcome to bring a change of clothes if you'd like more than one look for your session. Just be sure we discuss beforehand, so we can build in time to change - and identify a location - in our session plan.
on to the next
Colors
Wondering what I mean when I say "neutrals"? Here are examples of my favorite colors to select from when choosing your outfits. You can mix and match across these palettes to create a look that's uniquely you!
Neutrals
Pastels
Earth Tones
on to the next
Colors to avoid
There are a few colors that I would recommend you avoid: black (it can easily show hair/dust and can highlight dark shadows), bright red/orange (which cast onto your skin in unflattering ways), and neon colors which take away all the attention from you! There could be exceptions, so if you're thinking about one of these, please ask.
Baltic Born
ASOS Maternity
Red Dress Boutique
Petal and Pup
Free People
Morning Lavender
Seraphine Maternity
Anthropologie
Bohme
One Loved Babe
Ingrid & Isabel
Lulus
Piper and Scoot
Madewell
Favorite Shops
Pink Blush Maternity
Nothing Fits But
BHLDN
Doen
Christy Dawn
Vici
JessaKae
Zara
Ivy City Co.
H&M
Knotted Fern
Banana Republic
Gap
Fehrnvi
on to the next
Professional hair and makeup might be a splurge, but you won't regret it! What better excuse to pamper yourself than your photo session?
Professionals do a fantastic job with making sure your hair and makeup are camera-ready, and long lasting. The more confident you feel with the way you look, the more relaxed you will be in your photos. It's also SO nice to not have to worry about those things on the day-of. You already have enough to manage!
Here is a list of Hair and Makeup Artists in the Washington, DC area who you might consider for your session.
Even if you do not opt for a little professional pampering, do check to make sure fingernails are clean and trimmed. And if you're applying your own makeup, you might consider going a little heavier than you normally would to be sure it's visible on camera. Make sure you blend foundation well - especially around your jawline!
Hair & Makeup
on to the next
newborn
Sessions can be scheduled at any time after birth. Some parents want to
capture their little one as soon as possible after coming home, others may want the baby to be more alert and prefer to wait until three weeks or older. I encourage you to consider how you are feeling postpartum as well.
The most common period requested is 7-14 days after birth. During this time your newborn sleeps deeply, and baby acne is less likely to have appeared.
Prior to your little one’s arrival, I recommend paying attention to when the natural light in your home is even and bright. Typically this is in the morning, between 9am-1pm, but given the direction of your windows may also be in the afternoon. Since I am a natural light photographer, it is important that we select a time that will give us the most beautiful light to work with. I do bring flashes with me in case we need them, though!
scheduling
After your baby enters the world, please email or text me to let me know (hello@michellejonesphoto.com or 571-721-1444). We’ll discuss my availability and get your session on my calendar. I usually schedule newborn sessions during weekdays, but may have weekend availability depending on the dates. If you are scheduling delivery, you are welcome to choose a date for your session beforehand.
We let your baby run the session so there is no set schedule for the session. If your baby is asleep, we can start with some sleeping shots, and later capture feeding and awake time. Plan to feed your baby on your normal schedule or when needed, even if that means interrupting the shoot. We want your baby to be happy, above all else!
During the session I will offer suggestions for basic posing (for example, everyone snuggle on the bed or couch) and occasionally ask you all to look at the camera, but largely seek to capture candid moments of you interacting together. So feel free to chat, tickle, tell jokes, etc. and keep it fun! When in doubt, just look at or snuggle your baby!
Typically the session will last about 90 minutes. Your baby will likely get fussy during the session, which is to be expected (I’m a mom,
too, and this does not phase me in the least!). During one session, the baby cried for the majority of the time, but with a little creativity we still captured beautiful images!
I won’t be in a rush, so we can always pause and address baby's (and your!) needs and then resume again. Feeding, diaper changes, snacks
- all good. If you’d like me to capture these moments I would be happy to, and if you prefer privacy, that is fine, too!
If baby likes white noise, feel free to bring out a noise machine or play music during our session. Anything to keep your little one happy!
If you have a preference on newborn skin editing, please let me know. My standard approach is to gently edit newborn skin by
smoothing and reducing any major discoloration, only as needed. I will only remove things like baby acne and stork bites if you ask
me to.
On the day of your session, please make sure your home is warm enough for your baby to be photographed in a diaper, onesie, or swaddle (the rest of the family may need to plan outfits accordingly so you aren’t too hot!). It is also helpful if you open all of your blinds/curtains before I arrive so we have plenty of light to work with. I will ask you to turn off any lamps or overhead light during the session (these can cast strange shadows and change skin tones).
What to
expect
It’s okay to feel nervous or even vulnerable, as you welcome me into your home. Please feel relaxed, and know that you do not need to impress me or host me. I am completely familiar with the newborn period, and do not expect to walk into a perfectly tidy house! I am there to capture you all in your element together. Just focus on the baby and each other, and the result will be beautiful!
Preparing Your Home
for Your newborn session
First off, let me put your mind at ease: you do not need to clean your house top to bottom! I’m a mom, and completely understand that mess is inevitable, especially just after bringing home a baby! I'm serious on this one - do not stress out cleaning!!
It CAN be helpful for you to spend 5 minutes clearing any major clutter in the areas we’re likely to photograph in. These areas include your bedroom (bed or window area), baby’s nursery (if you have one), and living room (couch or seating area). I do recommend making your bed, and gently tidying up the nursery if you have one. Pay attention to the tops of nightstands or dressers, putting things like cleaning wipes in drawers. If needed, I’ll ask you if I can move or adjust things to reduce distractions.
Some families worry their home isn't "picture perfect". Don't stress! We are not photographing your home, we are photographing your family. So that's what matters most.
When selecting areas to photograph in, I am looking for good light, neutral colors, and a comfortable area for you to relax and love on each other. We do not need a lot of space to make magic! Sometimes we'll use just one wall with great light, and I'll locate the best locations in your home. If you have other questions about how you can prepare your home, just ask!
If you have pets and they are not camera shy, they are more than welcome to be part of the session. I have no pet allergies, and love four-legged friends.
"picture perfect"
Lifestyle Newborn sessions emphasize the simple details and capture the memorable connection between your family during this magical time.
It works great to have baby wearing a swaddle when I arrive. You can keep the baby in a diaper underneath or a neutral colored onesie (like white/ivory, or a pastel color, or subdued earth tones). It's also a good idea to have one or two swaddle blankets on hand in a similar color scheme.
Brightly colored clothing can create unflattering casts on the delicate newborn skin, so a neutral palette is always best. If your little one is wearing a special outfit, I recommend waiting to change into it until after I arrive to avoid spit-up or blow-outs!
Preparing
the baby
Patterns, especially on swaddles or newborn sacks, can also bring a fun visual interest to your session. and reflect the personality of your family or compliment your nursery decor. If you plan on patterns for baby, be sure to read my notes below on family clothing, too!
I have a minimal style, but if you have any special items you’d like
photographed with or on baby, please be sure to organize them before the session. Items like a special stuffed animal, blanket, diaper cover, headband or hat, or personalized blocks can be fun additions to your shoot. Props are not required; my favorite newborn images are simple and classic. If you have questions about this, feel free to ask!
Newborn baby skin can be dry and flaky. It can be helpful to give your baby a massage with some gentle lotion (be sure you've used it before to test for sensitivity!) the morning of your session.
If you have older children that will be joining in the session, it is a good idea to explain to them what is going to happen in advance. Frame this as a fun activity for the family and get them excited about participating as much as possible.
In line with the adjustment of a new sibling, older children can feel stressed or jealous that the spotlight is on the baby. I recognize this and will work to help the older siblings feel special too. If there is anything I should know that might be
helpful before the session, feel free to share!
Preparing Siblings
on to the next
Be sure they are well-fed before we start, and be sure to have snacks available. No one will cooperate when they're feeling hangry!
As much as possible, let me try to manage behavior. They generally respond better to my games and playful suggestions than threats.
Do your best to relax and have fun. Kids follow your lead, and respond best to calm, laughter, and a fun vibe. You are encouraged to tell jokes, tickle each other, tell funny stories, or sing your favorite songs.
Preparing Siblings
on to the next
We'll aim to use bribes sparingly (and only if everything else is failing). We're after genuine expressions and connection, which is best obtained through having fun together and showering each other with love.
Embrace whatever happens! Part of the magic of childhood is the unpredictability. Even if your older child refuses to smile the whole time, I will capture memories that will pull at your heartstrings, long after the days of a cluttered house and messy faces have passed.
Preparing Siblings
on to the next
I LOVE dogs, and I always get so excited when people want to incorporate them into their newborn session. It may require some planning, so be sure to let me know in advance, and follow these tips:
Managing
furry ones
Prepare your pet
It's important to exercise your dog prior to the session, so they will be more calm and relaxed during the time together.
Bring Help
Since your dog won’t be in every photo, you may need some backup during your session depending on your dog, and whether they are comfortable being tucked away in another room for some time.
Have treats available
Have some treats on hand, and even their favorite toy, so we can get their attention as needed.
on to the next
Outfits are an important part of preparing for your portrait session, and understandably can be very stressful! As someone who selects outfits for my own family's portraits, and advises clients on putting together their outfits, here are my tried and true tips for beautiful family outfits!
Choosing Outfits
for everyone
Neutrals are BEST! They are timeless, flattering, and keep the focus on you rather than your clothing. You can mix neutrals (e.g. ivory, gray, beige) with soft colors (light blue, blush, sage green) for a beautiful palette.
Pick the clothes for the person hardest to dress first. In my family, that's usually me, and then I focus on choosing items for my family around my outfit in colors that are complementary.
Outfits
OUTFITS
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE Kids
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE gENTS
HAIR & MAKEUP
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE LADIES
colors
FOR everyone
on to the next
Choosing Outfits
for everyone
Be considerate of trends that might date your photos in a few years. Try to aim for classic options that will always be in style. Avoid logos, clashing or busy patterns, and baseball caps.
Choose clothes that you are comfortable in, and that fit well. It will show if you're uncomfortable and constantly adjusting your outfit.
Feel free to add accessories! You don't need to go overboard, but adding stacked bracelets, statement earrings or necklace, watch, pocket square, etc. can instantly add visual interest to your photos and make your outfits look more cohesive. For kids, accessories like suspenders, bows, vests are all great! I suggest leaving exercise trackers off.
Outfits
OUTFITS
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE Kids
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE gENTS
HAIR & MAKEUP
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE LADIES
colors
FOR everyone
on to the next
Choosing Outfits
for everyone
For in-home sessions, bare feet or socks are great. For an outdoor session, try to avoid athletic sneakers and opt for a dressier option. It's completely fine to bring flats/sandals for any extended walking. For kids, be sure their shoes fit and are comfortable so they can play!
Think about how each person will look standing next to one other person (i.e. Dad with son, dad with daughter) and try to make sure each outfit is complementary and not too similar in color. Even better, try on the clothes together to see how it all looks.
Think about what your photos will look like printed and hung-up in your home - by selecting a color palette you love, you'll be happy to hang your memories to enjoy!
Outfits
OUTFITS
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE Kids
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE gENTS
HAIR & MAKEUP
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE LADIES
colors
FOR everyone
on to the next
Choosing Outfits
for everyone
Don't be afraid of patterns! If used correctly they can be a beautiful addition to your photos. I suggest choosing one patterned item of clothing (I especially love florals), and letting that decide your color palette. You can dress family members in clothing that complements those colors.
Consider the overall balance of outfits. If everyone wears denim bottoms, it looks very heavy on the bottom and your eye goes there instead of your faces. Avoid a "color blob" where your clothing merges together. Alternate colors and fabrics. For example, bottoms could include a mix of denim, white jeans, khaki, corduroy, skirts/dresses, or colored chinos.
Outfits
OUTFITS
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE Kids
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE gENTS
HAIR & MAKEUP
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE LADIES
colors
FOR everyone
on to the next
Colors
for everyone
Wondering what I mean when I say "neutrals"? Here are examples of my favorite colors to select from when choosing your outfits. You can mix and match across these palettes to create a look that's uniquely you!
Neutrals
Pastels
Earth Tones
Outfits
OUTFITS
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE Kids
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE gENTS
HAIR & MAKEUP
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE LADIES
colors
FOR everyone
on to the next
Colors to avoid
for everyone
There are a few colors that I would recommend you avoid: black (it can easily show hair/dust and can highlight dark shadows), bright red/orange (which cast onto your skin in unflattering ways), and neon colors which take away all the attention from you! There could be exceptions, so if you're thinking about one of these, please ask.
Outfits
OUTFITS
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE Kids
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE gENTS
HAIR & MAKEUP
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE LADIES
colors
FOR everyone
Try a flowy midi or maxi dress that shows beautiful movement rather than a form-fitting option.
Incorporate texture (e.g. lace, linen, knits, ruffles) and layers for a beautiful effect.
If your session is in a park or other grassy area, be careful about choosing your heels. Wedges or chunky heels are the best option to prevent you from sinking into the ground.
Wardrobe Tips
for the ladies
on to the next
Outfits
OUTFITS
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE Kids
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE gENTS
HAIR & MAKEUP
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE LADIES
colors
FOR everyone
Baltic Born
ASOS Maternity
Red Dress Boutique
Petal and Pup
Free People
Morning Lavender
Seraphine Maternity
Anthropologie
Bohme
One Loved Babe
Ingrid & Isabel
Lulus
Piper and Scoot
Madewell
Favorite Shops
Pink Blush Maternity
Nothing Fits But
BHLDN
Doen
Christy Dawn
Vici
JessaKae
Zara
Ivy City Co.
H&M
Knotted Fern
Banana Republic
Gap
Fehrnvi
for the ladies
on to the next
Outfits
OUTFITS
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE Kids
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE gENTS
HAIR & MAKEUP
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE LADIES
colors
FOR everyone
Professional hair and makeup might be a splurge, but you won't regret it! What better excuse to pamper yourself than your photo session?
Professionals do a fantastic job with making sure your hair and makeup are camera-ready, and long lasting. The more confident you feel with the way you look, the more relaxed you will be in your photos. It's also SO nice to not have to worry about those things on the day-of. You already have enough to manage!
Here is a list of Hair and Makeup Artists in the Washington, DC area who you might consider for your session.
Even if you do not opt for a little professional pampering, do check to make sure fingernails are clean and trimmed. And if you're applying your own makeup, you might consider going a little heavier than you normally would to be sure it's visible on camera. Make sure you blend foundation well - especially around your jawline!
Hair & Makeup
for the ladies
on to the next
Outfits
OUTFITS
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE Kids
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE gENTS
HAIR & MAKEUP
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE LADIES
colors
FOR everyone
You can’t go wrong with crisp button up. During the summer, roll up the sleeves instead of opting for a polo. In the cooler months, consider layering a blazer or sweater with jeans with this look.
Be careful not to choose a pattern that is too small - it may accidentally make your photo look a little too busy.
Softer, pastel colors tend to photograph better than bright colors - especially since bright colors could reflect on your skin.
Wardrobe
for the gents
on to the next
Outfits
OUTFITS
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE Kids
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE gENTS
HAIR & MAKEUP
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE LADIES
colors
FOR everyone
Wardrobe
for the gents
on to the next
ASOS
J. Crew
Zara
Leather & Cotton
Jack Threads
Frank & Oak
Nordstrom
H&M
Urban Outfitters
Madewell
Everlane
Banana Republic
Mango
Reiss
Alex Mill
Untuckit
Bonobos
Abercrombie
Rag & Bone
Outfits
OUTFITS
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE Kids
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE gENTS
HAIR & MAKEUP
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE LADIES
colors
FOR everyone
Luna + Luca
Lou Lou & Company
Axel & Rose
Jamie Kay
Janie and Jack
Zara
H&M
Gap
Indie Blue
Favorite Shops
Rylee and Cru
Knotted Fern
Carter's Little Planet Organics
Hope and Henry
Noralee
Quincy Mae
Seviin Children's Apparel
A Vintage Childhood Boutique
Modern Raised
for the kids
on to the next
Outfits
OUTFITS
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE Kids
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE gENTS
HAIR & MAKEUP
WHERE TO SHOP
FOR THE LADIES
colors
FOR everyone
Depending on the season of your session, you may opt for an outdoor newborn session, or you may wish to take some photos outside of your home. These are a few tips to consider if you're interested in planning an outdoor newborn session.
outdoor sessions
for newborns
I will be glad to offer suggestions for locations. To keep baby and family comfortable, we will look for a location that offers "open shade" which will ensure that no one is squinting, and we have nice even light.
locations
I normally advise outdoor sessions to be scheduled within the few hours after sunrise or two hours before sunset, as these times give the dreamiest light. In the summer months, this may not work well with the schedules for littles, so we will discuss this during our planning to see if an outdoor session is a good fit, and which locations will be best for the time
of day you choose.
time of day
I recommend brining a large, neutral colored blanket that can fit the whole family (I also can provide one!). I also bring a Moses basket, which photographs beautifully outside. Bring a few swaddles, change(s) of clothes, and any items your baby or family will need during the session.
items to bring
Planning ahead
In my personal experience, and in the experience of several other families I've photographed, bringing home a new baby can be overwhelming and feel incredibly busy. Given this, I have a few recommendations to help you effectively prepare for your newborn session before delivery. I find that taking these steps will go a long way to helping you feel relaxed and ready for your
session!
Choose Your Outfits
I know it can be challenging to know what your postpartum size will be. However, I know it can be very difficult to go shopping after baby arrives and you often do not feel up to trying on new clothes. I strongly recommend purchasing 1- 2 dresses that are designed for maternity or newborn bodies before baby arrives to have available. Wrap dresses are a good choice, as well as dresses with an elastic waist. If it fits you before delivery, you should be all-set for postpartum!
Choose Baby's Outfits
Same rule goes for baby! Baby's size is notoriously hard to predict, but having a Newborn sized option and 0-3 month option is a safe bet.
Your baby doesn't NEED a special outfit. This is optional! I bring with me to all sessions a simple ivory diaper cover, white swaddle, and white blanket that can be used. But if you want something special like an outfit or patterned swaddle, now is the time to choose it.
Also think about what you want the rest of your family to wear. If you set-aside these items in advance, you will have much less to worry about day-of!
Your session includes a curated digital gallery with print release so you can download, share, and print your high-resolution images. I am to deliver your gallery within three weeks after your session, but timeline may vary depending on the type of session you booked.
Your Images
When to Expect
I'm a big believer that images aren’t meant to solely exist in a digital space. One day, most likely, Instagram will be gone, your phone will be replaced and images that you can physically hold in your hand will be the best way to remember those precious moments we captured.
I offer everything from prints to custom heirloom quality lay-flat albums, so you can preserve your family's treasured memories for years to come.
Bring Your Images to Life with
prints
Your Client Portal includes everything related to your session experience with Michelle, including your invoices & receipts, pre-session questionnaires, your gallery, and the opportunity to purchase print products.
If you have trouble logging in, contact Michelle.
CLIENT PORTAL
ACCESSING YOUR
ACCESS MY CLIENT PORTAL
I can’t wait for our sessions together! I thank you for trusting me with the deep honor of documenting these precious memories for you.
My goal is to serve you and your family the best that I can! So please reach out with any questions or
concerns ahead of your session. Relax and enjoy making these memories with your family that you’ll get to treasure.
hello@michellejonesphoto.com
571-721-1444