Menu
Menu
The safety and comfort of your baby are top priorities for me in every newborn photo session. Unlike some newborn photography approaches that prioritize getting babies into specific poses, my focus is on capturing your baby as they naturally are and ensuring their comfort throughout the session.
I swaddle babies in almost all sessions, recognizing that each baby is unique in their preferences. The way I swaddle varies, taking into account how each baby likes their arms and legs positioned for maximum comfort. When it comes to unwrapped poses, the approach is even more personalized, as each baby may have different preferences for poses.
My guiding principle is to pay close attention to the baby’s cues, ensuring they are comfortable in every moment. Prioritizing safety is non-negotiable, and I always start with that as the foundation. However, comfort is equally crucial because a comfortable baby is a safe baby. If a baby shows any sign of discomfort, I immediately adjust and explore different poses or setups.
It’s important to understand that each baby is unique, and the session may not result in exact replicas of images you’ve seen before. Instead, the focus is on your baby’s comfort and natural expressions. Whether swaddled or in unwrapped poses, with eyes open or closed, the goal is to capture the authentic essence of your baby.
Throughout the session, my commitment is to create a safe and comfortable environment, allowing us to capture precious moments that showcase your baby’s individuality. Rest assured that your baby’s well-being is always at the forefront of my approach, and we’ll work together to create beautiful images that reflect their comfort and uniqueness.
The best time for newborn photos is often between 1 and 3 weeks after birth, but it’s important to note that there isn’t a strict cutoff age for newborn photography. While many clients choose this timeframe, it doesn’t mean your baby is too old for photos if they’re beyond that window. If your baby is 4 weeks or even a bit older, it’s absolutely fine.
I understand that parents may not always contact me until after their baby is born, and sometimes my schedule may be full. This is why I encourage planning ahead and booking a session while you’re still pregnant. However, if circumstances lead to a later booking or if you did book early but need more time for recovery, there’s no need to stress.
Contrary to the common belief that babies must be photographed within the first 10 days, I don’t adhere to such strict timelines in my photography approach. I’ve successfully captured newborns at various ages, from days old to weeks and even months. If your baby is 1 month old or older when you contact me, we can still create beautiful photos, albeit with some differences compared to younger newborns.
Older babies may be more awake, but the swaddling and curled-up poses I use in my photography style are often appreciated by babies even a few months old. Swaddling continues to help them relax and potentially fall asleep, creating images that retain the essence of newborn photography.
There isn’t a point where a baby is considered “too old” for photos. I also offer sessions for older babies, such as sitter sessions around 6 to 8 months or even year-old sessions with babies standing and walking. While these sessions differ from traditional newborn photography, any age is beautiful, and I’m here to guide you on what to expect based on your baby’s developmental stage.
Ultimately, your baby’s age doesn’t limit the possibility of capturing meaningful and precious moments. Whether your baby is a few weeks or a few months old, each stage has its unique charm, and I’ll work with you to create images that beautifully reflect your baby’s journey.
Having a unique idea for your newborn photo session is always exciting for me! I truly enjoy adding creativity and a burst of color to sessions, but rest assured, if you don’t have a specific concept in mind, I’ve got you covered with the basics and timeless images that I love creating.
However, if you do have a unique idea, I’d love to hear about it. Unique concepts often provide insight into who you are as a family, and I genuinely enjoy getting to know my clients on a personal level. Some memorable suggestions I’ve received in the past include themed setups like Star Wars, incorporating sports teams and equipment, or aligning the session with the nursery theme.
For instance, I’ve worked on setups featuring woodland creatures and other elements from the nursery design. The goal is to create images that seamlessly integrate with the nursery decor, making them not just standalone photos but a cohesive part of the nursery ambiance. Working with nursery colors can add a playful touch, even if it’s not a strict theme.
Sharing personal details about your family, your interests, and what you love allows me to tailor the session to reflect your uniqueness. It’s a lot of fun for me to incorporate these elements, making your session not just about capturing images but about showcasing your family’s personality and creating something truly special for you.
So, whether you have a specific idea in mind or not, we can work together to make your newborn photo session a unique and personalized experience that reflects your family’s individuality and creates lasting memories.
It’s entirely normal for parents to be concerned about their child’s cooperation during a family, newborn, or maternity photo session. The main question revolves around managing moments when kids may not be fully on board. It’s important for parents to understand that this behavior is typical and not exclusive to their child. If a child senses parental stress, it can impact the session, making it essential for parents not to be too hard on themselves.
In such situations, I assure parents that I have strategies to engage children and maintain their interest throughout the session. My approach is laid back, avoiding the imposition of strict rules like ‘sit here,’ ‘look at me,’ or ‘smile.’ I want children to feel comfortable and understand that it’s a safe space where breaks are allowed. For example, if a toddler is holding a newborn sibling and decides they’ve had enough, they can simply say ‘all done,’ and I’ll intervene, giving them a break.
Rather than forcing children into specific actions, I prefer making the session enjoyable. I build a rapport with the kids at the beginning, discussing their interests and creating a connection. This foundation allows me to ask them to do simple tasks during the session, and they usually cooperate well. Offering breaks, incorporating games, and allowing snacks further contribute to a positive and cooperative atmosphere.
Understanding that children may feel shy or uncooperative for various reasons, I provide flexibility in the session plan. I adapt to the child’s needs, creating a pleasant experience that ensures we capture the best possible photos. Communication, patience, and a genuine interest in the child’s world play crucial roles in making the session enjoyable for both the child and the parents.
Feeling self-conscious before a maternity photoshoot is completely normal, and it’s a sentiment shared by many clients. Even as a photographer, I understand that being in front of the camera can be a bit daunting. It’s a common aspect of human nature, and there’s nothing unusual about it.
If you’re experiencing self-consciousness, the first thing to remember is to be easy on yourself. Professional photoshoots might be a new experience for you, especially if it’s your first time having maternity photos taken. Considering that the focus is on you and your changing body, it’s natural to have a range of emotions. Instead of dwelling on self-consciousness, shift your focus to the excitement of welcoming your baby. Think of the session as a special moment shared with your baby, making you feel less alone during the shoot. Your changing and growing body is a testament to creating space for your child in your life, a truly unique and special journey.
During the session, my goal is to guide you through different poses, providing direction and coaching to make you feel more comfortable. We’ll create a relaxed atmosphere with music and other elements to ease any initial self-consciousness. While you might feel uneasy initially, we’ll make the experience enjoyable, resulting in beautiful photos that you’ll be genuinely glad you took.
Absolutely! Many parents inquire about including their family in maternity sessions, wondering if it’s possible to bring their kids or partner along. The primary question revolves around the inclusion of family members in maternity photo sessions.
The answer is a resounding yes. While the focus is often on the mom-to-be, I understand the significance of capturing the entire family during this special time. The session can feature both individual maternity shots and family photos, providing flexibility based on personal preferences. If someone opts for a solo session, that’s completely fine too. In such cases, we can explore various looks, gown changes, and creative elements like fabric wraps.
The studio setting offers a relaxed environment for family members when they are not actively participating in the photoshoot. Unlike outdoor sessions where kids might run around, the studio allows everyone to sit back and enjoy the process. We can seamlessly transition between solo images, photos with a partner and capturing the family as a whole. It’s about providing a variety of options to make the maternity session a comprehensive and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
I strongly encourage parents to be part of newborn sessions, actively participating in the photos. While it’s a relatively small portion of the session, it holds immense significance in capturing precious memories. I will provide guidance on posing and holding the baby, making it a simple and straightforward experience for you.
Including parents in newborn photos is not just about the present; it’s about creating lasting memories that become part of your child’s story and legacy. I believe it’s crucial to have pictures of you holding your baby in those early days, showcasing the way they fit in your arms at that moment. These photos serve as timeless keepsakes for both you and your child to cherish as the years go by.
I understand that parents might feel hesitant, especially considering the exhaustion that often accompanies the early weeks of parenthood. However, I assure you that it’s a manageable and worthwhile part of the session. I have a wardrobe for moms, offering the option to wear a gown or something from my studio, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience. The goal is to capture that first family photo or a special moment between parent and baby, complementing the other adorable photos of your little one.
Beyond parents, I also welcome grandparents into sessions because they play a significant role in the baby’s story. Family representation is essential, documenting who was present and part of the journey from the very beginning. As life evolves, these photos serve as cherished reminders of the people who were there during those early days.
I not only love when parents actively participate in photos, but I go so far as to say they are included in every session. I also appreciate it when grandparents can join in the session fun, adding another layer to the family narrative captured through the lens. It’s about creating a comprehensive visual story that encompasses the love and connection within your family during this special time.
I am passionate about photographing the unique love that defines every family. Regardless of whether you have a chosen family, a blended family, a non-traditional family, or a conventional family, I am excited to meet you and tell your story. My goal is to capture images that celebrate the uniqueness of your family and what makes it special.
In my studio, diversity is not just welcomed; it is celebrated. I believe that love is incredibly beautiful in all its forms. What sets my work apart is the opportunity to capture that love, witness its beauty, and present it to you in the form of a photograph for your home.
I am committed to gender and cultural inclusivity. Every individual deserves to have their story told authentically. My studio is a space where you can be your true self, and I am dedicated to capturing the essence of your identity. Whether you’re entering a new chapter in life, celebrating a milestone, or simply wanting to capture everyday moments, I invite you to book a session. I want to get to know you, and together, let’s create some magic in front of the camera.
Soothing babies during photo sessions is a skill that has become second nature to me after photographing well over 3,000 little ones. Most often, I begin sessions with a snug swaddle for the baby. Swaddling is a technique babies typically love. Occasionally, babies may seem resistant to swaddling, but it’s often due to reflexes like the startle reflex or pushing on the swaddle’s walls, which are natural behaviors in newborns.
Starting with a snug swaddle provides comfort and a reminder of the womb’s coziness, creating a positive atmosphere. However, I understand that some babies may need additional soothing techniques. In such cases, I employ simple methods like walking around the studio. The act of walking mimics the gentle movement babies experienced in the womb, offering a sense of familiarity. Swaying from side to side and incorporating a shusher for white noise are also effective techniques, promoting a calming environment.
Even for babies who initially seem resistant, combining these three techniques often works like magic. However, if there are other factors contributing to the baby’s discomfort, I always look for cues from the baby. It could be hunger or a need to release gas, and addressing these needs is crucial.
The key elements of my approach involve ensuring the baby’s comfort through a snug swaddle, introducing calming white noise, and incorporating gentle movement until they enter a deep, restful sleep. Once they are in this state, we can proceed with various poses and wraps comfortably. I prioritize essential tasks like diaper changes and feeding before diving into these soothing techniques. The goal is to create a relaxed and enjoyable experience, capturing different setups while ensuring your baby remains content throughout the session.
The question of what to wear for maternity photos is a common one, and the answer is entirely in your hands! I believe in empowering you to choose what makes you feel beautiful and comfortable. While I won’t dictate your wardrobe choices, I do provide a diverse range of gowns and looks in the studio for you to explore.
In the studio, you’ll find an array of options, from formal to more casual, with a wide variety of colors to suit your preferences. Many of my clients end up selecting something from this collection for their maternity session. Once your outfit is decided, we’ll move on to coordinating the looks for everyone else participating in the session. I’ll offer suggestions for their attire based on your chosen look, ensuring that everyone complements each other and presents a cohesive and unified appearance. The goal is to create a harmonious visual narrative that reflects the unique beauty and style of your maternity session.
Authenticity is at the core of my approach, both in life and in capturing meaningful moments. To me, authenticity is about aligning with your passions and staying true to yourself—a philosophy I aim to live and instill in my children, and it’s the driving force behind my photography business.
In the context of a photoshoot, authenticity means capturing images in a genuine and truthful manner, steering clear of contrived or unnatural setups. For newborn photography, it translates into capturing babies in womb-like poses, swaddled up in a way that reflects their natural comfort, replicating the cozy positions they experienced in the womb.
When photographing adults, authenticity extends to capturing individuals in flattering angles and lighting without resorting to excessive Photoshop alterations. I believe in celebrating the inherent beauty of each person without manipulating their bodies or appearances in ways that feel unnatural or untruthful. Your story is unique, and I want to capture it authentically—preserving the genuine essence that you bring to the table.
These real, truthful images are not only a personal keepsake but also something to pass down through generations. As your family grows, these authentic photographs become cherished memories for your children and relatives. The goal is to provide images that resonate with the genuine you, rather than presenting a heavily edited version that might resemble you but lacks the authenticity and depth that make your story truly special.
In essence, my approach to photography, whether capturing families, newborns, or maternity sessions, is rooted in authenticity. It’s about creating images that reflect the real and beautiful aspects of who you are, ensuring that your story is told in a genuine and meaningful way.
As a full-service photographer, I take great joy in offering a diverse range of artwork products that you can cherish and display in your home. These printable products are not just memories for your family; they become tangible items for you to enjoy in the present. What could be more delightful than waking up each day and walking down the hall to gaze at a picture of your baby?
One of the primary offerings is Wall Art, designed to adorn your living spaces. This category includes various options such as framed prints and canvases, with frames and canvases being the most popular choices for the type of photography I specialize in—portraits. Additionally, I provide metal prints, acrylics, and wood prints to cater to different preferences.
For Wall Art, you have the flexibility to choose between standalone pieces, perfect for showcasing a beautiful family image over the mantle or above the couch. Alternatively, my personal favorite is creating a wall collage. This involves displaying multiple images from a session together, forming a cohesive yet diverse piece of artwork. This collage could consist of 5-7 canvases, each representing different aspects of the session.
In the case of a newborn session, we might dedicate a canvas to each unique setup, capturing individual moments of your little one. For a family session with older kids, we can craft a collage with parents together, each child having their own canvas, and a collective family photo to tie it all together. This approach allows you to curate a personalized and visually stunning display that encapsulates the essence of your session.
As a full-service photographer, I take great joy in offering a diverse range of artwork products that you can cherish and display in your home. These printable products are not just memories for your family; they become tangible items for you to enjoy in the present. What could be more delightful than waking up each day and walking down the hall to gaze at a picture of your baby?
One of the primary offerings is Wall Art, designed to adorn your living spaces. This category includes various options such as framed prints and canvases, with frames and canvases being the most popular choices for the type of photography I specialize in—portraits. Additionally, I provide metal prints, acrylics, and wood prints to cater to different preferences.
For Wall Art, you have the flexibility to choose between standalone pieces, perfect for showcasing a beautiful family image over the mantle or above the couch. Alternatively, my personal favorite is creating a wall collage. This involves displaying multiple images from a session together, forming a cohesive yet diverse piece of artwork. This collage could consist of 5-7 canvases, each representing different aspects of the session.
In the case of a newborn session, we might dedicate a canvas to each unique setup, capturing individual moments of your little one. For a family session with older kids, we can craft a collage with parents together, each child having their own canvas, and a collective family photo to tie it all together. This approach allows you to curate a personalized and visually stunning display that encapsulates the essence of your session.
Finally, I do offer digital images, recognizing the popularity of sharing memories online. In many of the collections, I include digital files, providing you with access to these images for your personal use. Digital images are fantastic for sharing online, but it’s crucial to balance this with the importance of printing your photos. Having tangible prints allows you to physically hold and enjoy your memories, preventing them from being relegated to digital archives.
While online sharing is convenient, there’s a certain magic in holding a printed photograph and relishing it in your hands. Unfortunately, many times, images posted online may be forgotten, and it saddens me to think that families might miss the opportunity to revisit these beautiful moments on a day-to-day basis. Children, in particular, gain a sense of self-confidence and identity when they see themselves prominently displayed in the home. Witnessing their growth and milestones through printed photos fosters a connection to their own story, creating a truly special and meaningful experience. That’s why I am passionate about not only offering digital images for sharing but also encouraging the creation of tangible artwork that families can cherish and enjoy daily.
The turnaround time for your portraits begins once the photo session is complete. After capturing the images, I dedicate time to post-processing and editing. Once this is complete, your review session typically occurs around 2-3 weeks after the photoshoot. This timeframe may be adjusted slightly, provided there’s prior communication and urgency, ensuring a smooth process.
During the review session, you get to see the images set to beautiful slideshow music. This is the time to choose your favorites and decide on prints and products. If you’ve pre-ordered a collection, it will include a certain number of digital images, available for selection during this session. The digital images you purchase will be provided to you on the same day as the review session.
When it comes to printed products, there’s an additional timeline to consider. Products such as birth announcements and holiday cards can arrive relatively quickly. Albums also arrive promptly, typically within a week. However, larger items like custom frames, involving printing and crafting, might take 3-4 weeks, depending on wood style and type.
For my photography sessions, I rely on a set of essential equipment to ensure high-quality images. My primary tools include a Canon 6D Mark II camera body paired with a 24-70 USM lens featuring image stabilization. This combination allows me to capture crisp, clear images with a resolution of 26 megapixels, suitable for large-sized prints.
In terms of lighting, I utilize Alien Bees equipment in the studio. This includes both traditional Alien Bees and a Digi Bee, providing consistent and reliable lighting across sessions. This consistency ensures that the lighting in your photos aligns with the expectations set by my portfolio.
Beyond capturing the images, my commitment to quality extends to the post-processing stage. I meticulously edit and process each photograph to enhance its overall appeal. This step is crucial, especially when preparing images for various print formats such as canvas, framed prints, and albums.
To further guarantee the highest quality, I personally inspect and conduct a quality check on all ordered items at the studio before they are ready for your pickup. If you have any inquiries or want more details about my equipment and editing process, please feel free to reach out.
If you’re curious about my photography style, the best way to understand it is by exploring my portfolio. However, if you haven’t had the chance to do so yet, let me sum it up for you. In essence, my style is characterized by a love for bright, vibrant colors and fun-filled photos. I have a penchant for bold colors, and this style transcends various genres, be it newborn, maternity, or family photos.
I infuse a lot of color into my photography, both through the wardrobe choices and the selection of backdrops and props, especially for newborn sessions. To get a better feel for my style, I encourage you to browse through my portfolio. There, you’ll find an array of bright, vibrant, and joyful photos that embody the fun and excitement I aim to capture for my clients.
Copyright ©Jennifer McNeil Photography 2022 | All rights Reserved | 926 E. Park Lane Santa Ana, CA 92705 | Sitemap | Privacy Policy