SHUTTER UP by JESSICA GILMORE

This is such a special time for you and your family--the addition of a new, sweet baby. I want to help you savor those memories of your sweet little one.

 

When to Schedule:

Book your session in advance at least several months (around 20-25 weeks of pregnancy) to ensure that I have availability. Usually my parents book their newborn session at the same time the maternity session is booked (getting the bundle discount) or shortly after. Booking ahead of time will give you priority over anyone who books last minute and guarantees your session. I have had to turn last minute parents away on occasion but I will certainly try to get everyone in. Newborn sessions are best in the first two weeks of your baby’s birth. During this time, your baby still sleeps a lot and his or her complexion is clear. When you schedule your appointment (and retainer is paid), your session will be reserved for an approximate time frame. Notify me as soon as possible when your baby is born to set a firm date.

Please, make sure you’ve filled out the above form to include anything you want to or don’t want see during your session. I cannot guarantee your baby will hold any pose, but I will do my best. ALL newborn sessions take place at 9:30am on weekdays, and newborn sessions can take up to three hours to complete.

 

Before the Session:

Relax! I have children of my own, so I am very familiar with the stress, fatigue, and emotions those first days home with baby may bring. Please, don’t worry about having a perfect house. I just need a little space and am more than happy to move a few things around if needed (and move them back).

 

What to Expect at Your Baby’s Session:

I will arrive at your home approximately 30 minutes before the scheduled time of your session. This gives me time to set up equipment and props without taking time away from your session. I prefer to use natural light for newborn photos. Most homes have an un-obstructed window that provides the necessary light. If needed, I will bring studio lighting, but does require more space.

 

Baby’s session can include any combination of the following: baby only, siblings and baby, parents and baby, family and baby. Baby calls the shots! Babies are little people, individuals with their own likes, dislikes and personality. If baby wants to eat, we’ll take a break. If baby wants to swaddle, we’ll swaddle him/her. I’ll work with you and your baby to have a successful session.

Newborn sessions are taken place in a quiet, warm and delicate environment. The client shall maintain control of other subjects including siblings. It is the responsibility of the client to ensure the cooperation of additional subjects as not to intrude on the baby’s immediate area. The client shall provide all necessary controls over additional subjects including scheduling an arranged caregiver pickup/drop off should it be needed.

 

If possible, hold off on feeding the baby for one to two hours before the session and keep the baby as awake as possible. Upon arrival, you will relax and feed your newborn. The goal is to get them full, sleepy and happy. Be prepared with lots of extra bottles, diapers, wipes and pacifiers. I full support breastfeeding, so you're welcome to nurse your baby. But, during a session is not the time to be on a rigid schedule, so try to relax. This is a special day and event so you will need to be flexible so I can capture your images. I can also incorporate breastfeeding photos into your session if you'd like. I do not wear perfume, makeup or jewelry to newborn sessions due to delicate nature of their skin and unknown sensitivities or allergies.

 

Jessica Gilmore takes a high priority in your newborn's safety. Clients are understanding that Jessica Gilmore will not recreate "trendy" newborn shots that include but are not limited to; babies in glass jars/vases, babies hanging from tree branches/etc, any position in which baby does not naturally conform to. These poses do not represent Jessica Gilmore’s style and severely risk the safety of your newborn.

 

Reviewing your Photos:

After your session, we will set up a follow-up appointment approximately 2-3 weeks later to view and order your photos. Proofs may be ready sooner. I will notify you as soon as they’re ready.