What Actually Happens During a Newborn Session? (Everything You're Wondering But Haven't Asked)

Here's what I want you to know before we even get to the logistics: I've got you.

I know the idea of a photo session with a brand new baby can feel like a lot. What if she cries the whole time? What if he won't settle? What if the house isn't clean enough? What if I don't look "put together" enough?

I hear these worries from almost every mama before her session. And my answer is always the same: none of that matters as much as you think it does. I have photographed a hundred sessions with crying babies, tired parents, unmade beds, and dogs underfoot — and I have loved every single one. Because that's real. And real is beautiful.

But I also know that knowing what to expect helps mamas relax. So here's a behind-the-scenes look at what our time together actually looks like.

Before We Even Begin

Once baby arrives and you're home and settled, you reach out and we pick a date within the first two weeks. I'll send over a few simple prep notes — things like feeding baby right before I arrive, keeping the house a little warmer than usual, and giving yourself permission to not clean for company. Seriously. A lived-in home tells a better story.

When I Knock on the Door

I arrive with a bag of wraps, swaddles, and everything we need for the session. First thing I do is a quick walk-through of your home to find the best natural light — usually a bedroom window or a bright nursery corner. Then we settle in and I take a few minutes just to meet your baby and let everyone breathe.

There's no clock running. I don't have somewhere to be after you. This session is yours, and it goes at your pace.

Baby's Solo Time

We usually start with just baby — swaddled, bare, or wrapped, depending on what's working. This is when I capture all the tiny details: the curled toes, the little fists, the way newborns tuck their chin just so. Baby will probably snooze through most of this, which is the absolute best-case scenario.

If baby needs to eat in the middle of it — we pause and you feed. If baby needs a diaper change — we pause and we change. There is no rushing. Not ever. I have nowhere to be more important than here.

Family Time

This is honestly my favorite part of every single session. The whole family together. Mama holding baby. Dad's hands. Everyone in bed. The older sibling leaning in just a little too close because they're obsessed. These images are the ones that go on the walls. The ones that make you tear up when you open the gallery.

I'll gently guide you — where to sit, how to hold baby, when to just look at each other and forget I'm there. But mostly I'm just watching. Waiting. Documenting the love that's already in the room.

The Details

Near the end of the session, I wander through the nursery on my own for a few minutes. The name letters on the wall. The tiny shoes lined up on the shelf. The first little stuffed animal. The bassinet. I photograph all of it. Because these are the things that will matter so much more than you expect them to.

How Long Does It Take?

Most sessions run 2 to 3 hours, sometimes a little longer, depending on how many breaks baby needs. Your gallery comes back to you within 2 to 3 weeks, beautifully edited and full of images that will take your breath away. I promise.

Still have questions? Please ask them. I love them. Reach out and I'll walk you through everything. Serving Greenville, Simpsonville, Piedmont, Laurens, Anderson, and all across the SC Upstate. 🤍

---

KEEP READING