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Frequently Asked Questions

How soon should I book my session?
I highly suggest booking your session when you’re in your 2nd trimester. I only take a limited number of sessions each month to ensure I have availability if your little one decides to come a little early, or late.

 

I’ve booked my session… now what?

Now you get to sit back and relax for the next couple months. Once your little one arrives, please email me within 3 days of their arrival so we can schedule the actual date of your newborn session. When you email me, please include a picture (no hat!) and their birth stats so I can properly prepare the different props and setups we plan on using during your session.

 

Where does the session take place?

All sessions take place at my home studio, located in Okotoks, Alberta. At my studio you’ll find a comfortable parents waiting area and everything we’ll need for your session, including snacks and coffee (for you, not the baby!).

 

When are newborn sessions scheduled?

I schedule all my newborn session when your baby is between 8-21 days new. I’ve found this age range to be the perfect time to get those sleepy curled poses of your precious little baby. Baby a little bit older? That's not a problem. Reach out and we can discuss what options are available for an elder newborn session.

 

Do you supply the props, wraps and blankets for the session?

Yes! My studio is full of all sorts of different baby beds, and props, especially made for newborn photographers. Along with a variety of wraps and layering pieces, you’ll find that I have all the colors you would want for your session.

 

What should we wear for family pictures?

During your session I will have your baby fully swaddled for the family portion of your session. Depending on which background you choose, I suggest my clients wear neutral colors that coordinate well together, such as light/dark grey’s for a dark background, or creams/whites for a lighter background.

 

What should I bring for my session?

Simply put - diapers, wipes, milk/formula, pacifier and an extra change of clothes for yourself (my studio is warm, so dress in layers so you can be comfortable!). I supply everything else we’ll need for your session such as wraps, props, baby outfits, etc. I also have an assortment of snacks, tea and coffee for you to enjoy while you’re visiting my studio.

 

How long is a typical newborn session?

If you’re scheduled for a full newborn session, you can expect to spend about 3 hours with me at the studio. A petite session is a shorter, more simple session that can take up to 1 hour.

 

Why do newborn sessions take so long?

That’s a great question! A lot of skill and patience goes into posing newborns. Sometimes we need a little more time for feedings, or to let your little one fall asleep on their own. I always take my time and never rush a session. One pose can take up to 30 mins to achieve and I never push or force a baby into any poses that I believe is making them feel uncomfortable.

 

Will you edit out any blemishes or flakey skin on my baby?

Yes! But I will still make your baby, look like your baby. :) I edit out anything that is distracting on your baby without overdoing it. If you prefer that I not edit out any flakes, or acne, please let me know!

 

What happens after the session?

After your session you’ll receive a proofing gallery. The proofing gallery will have basic edits applied to your pictures, along with 3-4 fully edited images, so you can see what your final images will look like. There will be directors on how to choose your favorites and send them to me. Once I receive your favorite pictures, and you have paid your invoice, your final gallery will be delivered 2 weeks from invoice payment date.

 

Do you offer any discounts on your sessions?

I do not. My pricing reflects my experience and expertise when it comes to photographing moms-to be & newborns. I do not compete with newer photographers and believe choosing a newborn photographer should not be based only on price, but also experience and expertise.

 

Tips For A Successful Session

  1. Please be patient. Newborn sessions are long and if you become stressed, your baby can also sense that stress and won’t be easily settled. While most sessions only take 2 hours, there are times when we can take a full 3 hours.
  2. Babies with full bellies sleep much better than babies who are hungry. While I understand that in these early days you are still getting used to a feeding schedule, please know that we may feed your baby more than often to ensure they have a full belly and are happy. If I see your baby rooting on their fingers, I will ask that you feed your baby a little more.
  3. Pacifiers can mean either a rough or smooth session. If your baby is not using a pacifier, I do ask that you bring one for the session. Sometimes a pacifier can really help your baby settle into a pose.
  4. Siblings and Extra Hands! If we are photographing an older sibling, please have someone available to take the sibling home once their portion of the session is over. 3 hours is a long time for them to wait around, in a warm space, having to sit still and quiet. I’ve found that if a grandparent can take the sibling home, it creates a much more relaxing environment for the remainder of your session.
  5. Safety is my first priority. I have extensive training in handling your newborn baby and posing them safely. If you ever have a question about a certain pose, please ask!
Dana Menendez Photography is available throughout Calgary, Alberta including: High River | Okotoks | Black Diamond | Cochrane
Okotoks AB newborn photographer

 

Dana Menendez Photography

309 Crystal Shores View

Okotoks, AB T1S 2H9

 

(403) 370-4250

 

dana.d.menendez@gmail.com