Winter is right around the corner…I have several backdrops that will make a great setting for your babies milestone portraits. Little L. was such a great model at 6 months old. He was just learning to sit up ! He gave me so many smiles.
This sweet newborn baby boy was 7 days old for his session. He was the perfect mixture of alert and asleep for his session. I absolutely love all of the parent posing we did during his session. Big brother was so good with him. Capturing mom and dad with their brand new baby is a special moment during the session for me. I know not everyone is feeling their best after delivery and are sleep deprived but I promise you when your baby is grown you will be so very thankful you have these photos of you with them in the first few days of life.
Welcome to the world baby K! It was an honor to take photos for this beautiful growing family. Enjoy these shots of this precious newborn! He was a champ during his session. His session took place in the comfort of his own home. I bring the studio to you. Everything is sanitized before each session. I wash all the blankets and outfits i use during the session.
I truly love it when my clients come back for new family members. I photographed big Brothers when he was just a few weeks old. And I loved seeing this beautiful and sweet family again. They booked the Grow with me package which include three sessions as least. Little C. was 2 wks old and just the cutest little boy. He did so well during his session. Big Brother who is just 17 months old loved holding his little brother.
I look forward to documenting his first year.
Double the cuteness, double the fun! I always enjoy the chance to photograph twins when the awesome opportunity arises – what a blessing to have two little bundles of joy! I didn’t realize until I became a newborn photographer that there are actually more twins born than you might think. Over the years, I have adopted a different process to account for the needs of two newborns (or even multiples) as opposed to one. So if you are curious as to how a twin newborn session compares to a single newborn session, read on.
Pricing – You shouldn’t have to pay more for two little miracles, so twin sessions are priced at the same rate as a normal newborn session; however, I allow a little more time for twin sessions to account for the feeding and cuddling of two babies.
The Package – Just like single newborn sessions, twin newborn sessions include a variety of images for your collection. Single newborn sessions include photos of your baby alone as well as parent and sibling pictures, while twin newborn sessions include the following additional combinations:
· Babies together
· Babies together with each parent
· Babies alone with each parent
· Babies with siblings together
· Whole family portrait(s)
Your gallery will include up to 50 photographs, just like single newborn sessions do. You choose 20 digitals and each image after the 20 is $10 each.
My Process – It’s all about taking turns. When both babies are sleeping, I photograph them together. Then, when one needs to eat, I work with the one who is still sleeping (or at least content and awake). Once baby A finishes eating, we switch and feed baby B while I do baby A’s individual shots.
I work with an assistant for all twin sessions to make sure babies are safe and secure the entire session as well to give parents a break so they can spend time together resting on the couch during the session – it’s a win for everyone!
What a sweet, sleepy little man. It was a pleasure to meet D. who was less than two weeks old. This was a gift certificate a previous client gave to D. Mom. I love when clients give the gift of memories. Little D. was such the perfect model. He slept for his entire session. I love being able to give my clients the best baby photos possible. Did you know I’ve been a newborn photographer for more than 8 years? I’ve always had a love for photography, and i used to be a certified doula but have since honed my photography skills and now focus on perfecting my craft. I have spent countless hours reading, researching, watching videos, practicing, going to workshops … and shopping. All to bring you the best service and portraits possible. I just love all of the props and accessories I have compiled over the years, so every session has it’s own unique look, all while staying true to my style. I am so proud of everything my business has become and I can’t wait to share it with you!
Make sure to use that Contact button above so we can start chatting! I’d love to hear about your vision for your session.
It’s true. There is a preferred age when photographing a newborn. And there are some photographers that will only photograph a baby during those few weeks. But guess what? I know life can get in the way. And while pictures of your baby are certainly a priority for many, I completely understand why they get delayed … or forgotten. I am more than happy to photograph your new baby at any age. Older newborn photos can be just as beautiful as pictures you might have taken right after your new bundle arrived. I will tell any potential client that I prefer the baby to be under 3 weeks of age. And I do tend to find that these younger babies do best at their portrait sessions. However, there are always exceptions to the rule so if you’re questioning anything, please feel free to reach out and we can discuss your specific situation. As long as everyone has the right expectations, then photographing your baby at any age can result in photos you will cherish forever.
The perfect example of an older newborn is sweet C. below. Mom really wanted images of her sweet little one but due to covid she had to wait a few weeks. Baby C. was 8 weeks of age. Not an age I shoot a lot of since it’s right in between my two standard milestone sessions (newborn and 4 months). He was, for the most part, out of that curly, sleepy newborn stage. But wouldn’t you know it, he gave us that perfect mix of wrapped shots and wide-eyed awake shots. There are so many portraits that I love from his session! His mom loved the toilet paper image the best. How cute is it that she has his initial put on the toilet paper to remember the time when he was born during a pandemic.
So don’t hesitate to contact me if you’re considering older newborn photos of your baby … not matter the age. We can chat about your wishes and your baby’s current stage and figure out what would work best for you. I’d love to be a little part of this amazing adventure you’re on!
I get a ton of questions from parents leading up to their baby’s milestone session. What should they wear? When should I schedule? What if they can’t sit up yet? The list goes on. So I thought I would take a few minutes to go over the most commonly asked questions in hopes of putting your mind at ease. Below are my best tips for milestone sessions. Now these are mainly for babies around 3 months to one year of age, but many of them you can also follow for slightly older children as well.
I’ll start off by saying, you know your child best. While I may have some suggestions, you know what will work best for your family. So take my thoughts with a grain of salt.
How old should my baby be for a milestone session?
I offer all sorts of milestone sessions — any age really. Your baby will change so much in the first year and there are so many milestones to capture. My favorite is a sitter session, which can be anywhere from 6-9 months of age typically. Some parents also love to capture the tummy stage, around 3-4 months. And then there’s the obvious first birthday. In fact, Jacki G. Photography offers a Grow with me package — 3 portrait sessions through baby’s first year to document all those precious milestones. Contact me if you’d like more information.
I recommend scheduling your session 3-6 weeks before you’d like to have it. That way I can ensure a spot in my schedule. If you need a weekend spot, then definitely give me extra notice as those spots fill up quickly.
What time of day should I schedule my session?
Naps come first! They were a necessity in my household and we planned everything around them. I realize not every baby sticks to a schedule, but do keep in mind when baby typically rests and when baby is typically happy. Some babies love mornings, some love mid afternoons, etc. Take a minute to think about when your baby is happiest and let’s try to schedule your session at that time of day.
Should we do an outdoor session or studio session?
I tend to think little babies do best in the studio … so younger than one year is probably best inside. However, that’s not set in stone. If your baby is sitting well on his/her own, crawling and doesn’t mind grass (that’s definitely been an issue in the past!), then we can certainly do some photos outdoors.
Babies one year and older do great in both options. Being outdoors exploring is a great way to keep their interest peaked. But a studio session can offer a variety of backgrounds and setups. Obviously weather comes into play as well … I typically only shoot outdoors from May through October.
What if my baby isn’t sitting up yet? Or standing … or walking … you get the point.
Every baby progresses at a different pace. I have poses we can do at any age and will absolutely take baby’s age and abilities into account when setting up for your session. Some parents like to wait until baby hits a specific milestone, such as sitting on his/her own. This can happen anywhere between 6-9 months, or even after. So it’s up to you whether we wait until baby has hit that milestone or if you really want photos done at a specific age.
My baby has stranger anxiety – what should I do?
I’ve found that most baby’s around 10-12+ months have a bit of stranger anxiety. And even those who don’t … bring them into a new place (my studio) with a new face (me!) and they aren’t quite sure how to react. I am more than happy to take some time and let baby acclimate. Some just need a few minutes to check out their surroundings. Others need 15-20 minutes where we sit on the floor and play before they relax. And others are on the go from the moment they arrive, so we work fast! Whatever your baby needs, I am happy to oblige.
What should my baby wear?
This is one I hear a lot. And there are so many answers, that it might be easier to just list out some basic suggestions…
Avoid neon/bright colors near the face (ie. bright orange shirt, neon stripes, etc) as colors tend to reflect onto the face
Make sure baby’s clothes fit snug/well — clothes that are too big will look sloppy and will ride up over their face
Layers can be really cute, but can also overwhelm a small child (before they’re able to sit up/stand) so keep that in mind when adding thick sweaters or a puffy vest. Try everything on your child first before bringing them in for your session.
Feel free to show their (and your) style. Patterns and colors are great if you like them. If not, feel free to keep it simple. Baby’s under one year are also super cute naked or partially naked if you like showing off their skin.
My baby is turning one — should I bring a smash cake?
Cakes are usually a fun addition to a first birthday session. But sometimes they do not go as planned. Most of the babies I have in my studio do not “dive into” their cake as it might appear. Many are helped along by the parents. If your child HATES getting messy, a cake might not be the best option for their session. And I strongly suggest, if they’ve never had sweets before, to give them a practice round before coming in for their session (a few bites of ice cream or a cupcake). See how they react and that might help you decide if you want to bring one to their session. Some other alternative options I’ve seen are: spaghetti, pancake or watermelon smashes if you’d prefer to avoid cake/sweets.
I hope some of these tips for milestone sessions helped you! Don’t hesitate to ask if you have any other questions.
Wow, I haven’t blogged a newborn session in a while. Yikes! It’s finally picking up a little since the covid shutdown. But I have the perfect reason to get back to sharing my adorable little newborn sessions – I’ve have the opportunity to photograph M. 13 days new. I do clean and sanitized all equipment after each session . I can come to you or you could come to my home studio. Once you book a session we discuss props and colors. If you prefer to use your own props and wraps that would be fine.
I loved meeting Miss M. She didn’t like to be wrapped but she eventually fell asleep and posed for her session. They are so over the moon with their little girl! Congratulations to the proud parents on your birth of your precious little girl – it has been such an honor getting to know you and documenting your growing family.
Introducing this little peanut as this week’s cutie! Check out some favorites from her in-home newborn photography photoshoot! I She slept like a dream and had the best hair for a newborn baby girl.
I am a baby and newborn photographer in the Richmond, VA area. I am happy to provide boutique photography services to the Richmond, Midlothian, Short Pump, The fan, Mosley, Chesterfield, and surrounding counties. All sessions take place in the comfort of your own home or favorite location. This in-home photo session took place in Richmond, VA Interested in a newborn baby session? Please feel free to contact me @ Jacki@jackigphotography.com
Look who turned ONE! Little Miss was a little under the weather for her milestone session but she still had a great time with her cake. I love when I get to photograph babies their first year of life. They grow so much and to capture these moments for families is so special. The session took place at her home and we try to take some portraits first with the family then move on to the cake smash portion of the session. Most babies are not a big fan of cake so I suggest giving them a little before the actual session so they know what cake taste like. You will provide the decorations such as balloons or banners. I have the letters ONE & #1. You will also supply the cake due to allergy concerns. If you would like for me to supply the entire session the price can be adjusted to make that part of your session less stressful.
The cake smash session can take place in studio or outside at a location of your choice.
Here are a few from the cake smash that I thought were cute.
Look at adorable Noah from his in-home newborn session. He was such a good baby, he was up for most of his session and liked to cluster feed but at 8 days new he rocked his session. I know his parents will charish these images for years to come. I’m so happy to provides these newborn photographs for families in the comfort of their own home. I also have a home studio but for the most part clients feel more comfortable in their homes. I bring the whole studio to you. We discuss colors and props you would like to incorporate into your session to make them special to you.
it’s time for Spring Mini-Sessions and we couldn’t be more excited! I’m so glad to continue to offer our clients these awesome 15 minute sessions as they are such a great way to get everyone together for some updated photos! And I mean everyone. Mama’s, this year we had you specifically in mind. In our home, there’s one person that’s typically missing from our family photos…ME! This year, gift yourself (or drop some hints to your husband!) with the opportunity to get out from behind the camera and step into the frame with your family. You’ll be so glad you did!
We’re excited to announce our Spring 2020 Mini Session date!
Sat, April 25th, Sunday, May 3rd or Sat. May 23rd
$140 includes a 15 minute session with me, 5 high resolution images with the rights to print and the option to purchase additional images from the gallery . You’ll have a private online gallery for 2 weeks to review, select and download your 5 included images. All sessions are reserved on a first-come, first-serve basis. All mini sessions are NON-REFUNDABLE and NON-TRANSFERABLE due to the limited availability and high demand on our mini session dates. If it rains, the back up date will be Announced.
The location TBD. You will receive an email the Wednesday before your date with the location. There is a deposit to hold your spot then the balance is due at the time of your session.
I have attached a few images from last years Spring Minis.
How to Sign up:
1. Email Jacki ( Jacki@jackigphotography.com )
2. In your email, please include:
– Names & ages of the people in your session
– Will any pets be joining you?
– Reason for the shoot (family, anniversary, baby announcement, etc.)
– Preferred date & time slot: early morning or late afternoon
3. Jacki will correspond with you and give you a specific time slot
4. Sign our session contract & pay for your session deposit ($50)
We anticipate that they’ll start filling up immediately, so contact us to reserve your slot today!
Little S. was so good to me for his in-home newborn session at his Virginia Beach home. He slept through his entire newborn session and really made my job look so easy. I really love this sweet understated peacock set-up that we did during his session. So much cuteness in his newborn gallery and his is sampling from his newborn session. I also love when grandparents are included in a few shots. This little boy is so loved.
A rainbow baby is a baby born shortly after the loss of a previous baby due to miscarriage, stillbirth, or death in infancy. This term is given to these special rainbow babies because a rainbow typically follows a storm, giving us hope of what’s to come.”
This was such an emotional and special newborn photo session. Every part of these photos had a meaning and a deep connection with this loving family. I am very grateful to be part of these incredible moments. Thank you guys so much. I have worked with this family for a few years. I just love when clients become more like friends.
Little Z. was a great little model and Big sister was such a great helper during his session.
I photographed sweet R. 3 days after he was born. He was such a great sleeper and his Big brothers were so excited to show off their little brother. Baby R. was such a good newborn for his newborn pictures. After being awake for pictures with his family, he slept for the remainder of his session and gave us some amazing newborn photos. I’ve photographed R. brothers and I look forward to working with his family.
When to schedule your newborn session is one of the first and most important questions I get from expecting mamas. It’s a good one. The confusing part is you hear different answers from different photographers. The good news is there is no wrong answer, but you have to figure out what is the right answer for you and the type of newborn photography you are looking for.
Ask yourselves these key questions to help narrow down the style (and timeframe) that will work best for you:
1. What style of newborn photography are you drawn to?
Do you love posed newborn photos where your little bundle of joy is sleeping soundly all curled up on her tummy or in a beautiful swaddle? Posed newborn photos usually take place in a studio-type setting and have very clean and simple backgrounds.(my preference and style!),
Perhaps you prefer a lifestyle approach which basically means less posed images in a natural environment (whether it’s at home or outside) portraying a “slice of life” in an artistic way with some posing and direction from the photographer. In the case of a newborn session, this could mean mama cuddling with her newborn baby in the nursery, baby yawning in dad’s arms, etc., & being mindful of composition and cleanliness of the background while telling a story.
The last most common approach is documentary newborn photography. In documentary photography, the photographer is strictly observing and giving no directional input about posing to the subjects. The photographer is not manipulating anything, but is instead observing and recording this new phase in your life with your newborn.
2. If you prefer the posed newborn photos, most photographers love to work with babies that are 3-10 days old for several reasons. They sleep a LOT which makes for a smooth session. They are extremely flexible, which helps the photographer get the poses you see (although note that some poses are compositions of two separate photos taken then photoshopped together to always make sure baby is safe and secure). Last, they still have that newborn look which is highlighted in this type of photography.
3. If you prefer the latter two options, you have a little more leeway, regarding when to schedule your session. Some photographers will have a specific window in baby’s age where they are willing to book the session, and others will not. So I ask you this: if you prefer lifestyle or documentary photography, how important is it to you to capture your new little one in the sleepy, tiny, frail, no-chubby-cheeks-or-baby-rolls phase? Are you overwhelmed with starting your new normal at home while getting sleep, making it to doctor’s appointments, and more? How much time are you able to spend on your newborn session? When choosing a photographer think about these questions and what they recommend and consider what works best for you.
I love capturing the sweet little newborn phase, but when I work with my families I never push a specific window. I instead recommend we schedule the session within the first two weeks to give moms and dads time to adjust to their new normal and manage all the things that go along with it. I believe the style of newborn photography I create – is clean, organic, simple and shows connection with the siblings and parents.
4. The last important part you will want to consider is how often you are going to schedule a photography session during your baby’s first year of life. Are you interested in capturing him or her growing and reaching those important milestones? Perhaps you’ll leave your cell phone up to that but it’s important to you to invest in a similar high-quality artistic session once per year. There is no wrong answer, and many photographers typically have many options for you, including myself. I offer a Grow with me session which includes three sessions and you can book additional sessions for a discounted rate.
Every photographer has a different philosophy and will have a different recommendation on when to schedule your newborn session, I hope these tips and guidelines above will help you narrow down what you are truly looking for with your newborn session and choosing a photographer. Please email me if you have any questions!
It was such a pleasure photographing this beautiful family. I had the pleasure of photographing their little one as well and one of the awesome things we get to incorporate a special blanket we used during her maternity session with his newborn session.
A maternity session is booked with a newborn session as an add on. There are several newborn packages to choose from. There is a deposit to hold your spot and the balance is due at the time of your session.
One of the benefits of working with me as your photographer - I have gorgeous maternity dresses in my collection. If you choose to wear your own dresses and clothes that also works as well.
We photograph baby before 10 days so that the baby is still nice and sleepy and likes to be placed in squishy positions.
i had the opportunity to photograph a sweet little one a few months ago. His mother asked if we could use the Where the Wild Things Are theme for his newborn session. I thought it was a great idea and i had the perfect backdrop and outfit for him. Little G. did amazing during his session and slept most of his session. His older siblings were just so proud to show off their little brother.
We used a mixture of textures and props for his session. I bring the studio to you in the comfort of your own home.
My favorite subject to photography is newborns. Here are a few newborns I photographed in the last few weeks.
