Hi friends! This post is meant to be a super practical look at how maternity and newborn sessions work and what the booking process looks like!

How My Maternity + Newborn Sessions Work

If this is your first time planning maternity or newborn photos, you might be wondering what the process actually feels like—and I’m so glad you’re here.

So I wanted to walk you through it in a really simple, honest way—what you can expect from both your maternity and newborn sessions, and how everything flows from start to finish. My biggest piece of advice is to start the conversation early – it helps us prepare in advance so it’s one less thing to worry about when you have enough on your plate!

Your Maternity Session

Can I let you in on a little secret? Maternity sessions are truly some of my favorite things to photograph. I love everything about this season—pregnancy, anticipation, and the quiet shift into becoming a mother.

Your maternity session is typically scheduled between 32–35 weeks, when your bump is beautifully visible but you’re still (hopefully) feeling fairly comfortable.

These sessions are intentionally short and simple—about 30 minutes—so they don’t feel overwhelming. We usually choose a location that feels natural and easy for you, often outdoors if weather allows.

Before your session, I’ll help with wardrobe styling so everything feels cohesive and effortless. You don’t have to figure it out alone—I can suggest pieces, help you pull outfits together, or guide you toward colors and textures that photograph beautifully.

The goal is to keep things relaxed and natural, focusing on this in-between season before your baby arrives.

Your Newborn Session

Newborn sessions are photographed in your home, usually within the first three weeks after birth, though this is always flexible depending on how you’re feeling and how your recovery is going.

There is no rush and no pressure to “be ready.”

These sessions last about 90 minutes, and they are very baby-led. We move slowly and gently—pausing for feeding, soothing, diaper changes, or just taking breaks when needed. The rhythm of the session follows your baby completely.

I’ll photograph both the quiet, tender moments and the fuller story of your family in this new season—older siblings, nursery details, and those simple, in-between moments that often end up meaning the most.

Styling and Preparation

One of the biggest ways I try to make this feel easy for you is through wardrobe guidance. I offer styling help for both sessions so everything feels cohesive without you having to overthink it.

We’ll keep things simple, natural, and true to your family—nothing too harsh or bright. I lean heavily into suggesting timeless and classic looks that will outlast trends and serve as beautiful art of your family for years and years to come.

Booking + Timing

We will book your maternity session together, usually around 32-35 weeks.

I’ll stay in touch as your due date approaches so we can schedule your newborn session flexibly after baby arrives. I keep a block around your due date to make sure you are guaranteed a spot within your window, but we won’t nail down the exact date until after baby arrives.

A Final Note

These sessions aren’t about perfect timing or perfect conditions. They’re about documenting a season that passes quietly and quickly—before you’ve had time to fully take it in. You may not feel your best post-birth, but I guarantee you will want photos of both your little one and you as a new parent, whether it’s your first kid or your fourth, it’s always a new season.

From pregnancy to baby’s arrival, it’s one continuous story. And my goal is to help you remember it as honestly and beautifully as it felt.