Frequently Asked Questions
WHEN DOES A NEWBORN SESSION TAKE PLACE?
Newborn photography sessions are typically done within the first 21 days after the birth of your baby. Once baby arrives you will need to contact me as soon as possible so that we can select a session day that will work for you.
If baby gets to be older than 21 days, I still do “older” baby sessions. And if baby needs to spend time in the NICU we can still schedule when baby is able to come home.
WHERE DOES THE SESSION TAKE PLACE?
Newborn Sessions take place in my comfy, beautiful, professional studio which is located at 1448 Roanoke Road in Daleville, Virginia
WHY A STUDIO?
My photography studio allows me access to all of my hand picked, high-end newborn props and gives the most consistency and the most beautiful images for my clients to cherish forever. This is where my big, beautiful lights are, and every little thing that we might need for baby. The studio has a lovely big sofa just for you to relax on as you watch your new little one being photographed. It is really a very fun and memorable experience.
HOW LONG WILL MY SESSION LAST?
The “Little Beginnings” newborn sessions can last around 90 minutes to 2 hours. The other newborn sessions, Classic Newborn, Sunshine Baby, and Cherished, typically take about 3 hours.
WHEN SHOULD I SCHEDULE MY SESSION?
The best time to schedule your session is during your second trimester or sooner if you wish. I always try to accommodate any last-minute bookings if my calendar allows it! I never want for anyone to miss out!
ARE PARENT AND SIBLING POSES INCLUDED IN THE PACKAGES?
Parents are included in 3 of the packages. Parents can be added to the Little Beginnings session, and siblings are considered an add-on to any of the newborn sessions for a fee. I do request that siblings are taken from the studio after the family poses are complete so that mom and I can work with baby in a quiet and calm studio. Since baby is the center of my artistic concentration, I need to have a calm studio so that nothing at all interferes with baby’s safety or interruption in the session flow.
CAN WE BRING OTHER PEOPLE TO THE SESSION WHO JUST WANT TO OBSERVE?
Based on experience we find that it’s better if only the parents of the newborn attend the session. Newborn sessions are meant to be a personal and intimate experience for the immediate family only. Newborn sessions are often lengthy and require a calm, quiet environment in which we can keep baby asleep and soothe baby if they are fussy. Extra time is needed for diaper changes and feedings. Only the immediate parents and siblings who will be photographed on the day of the session are invited into the studio. Once baby has his newborn photos taken and is a few days older, that is a good time to schedule a family session. That way, no one is left out.
CAN WE BRING OUR OWN PROPS TO HAVE YOU USE IN OUR SESSION?
We will personally style your newborn session for you. We use beautiful handmade outfits, wraps, and unique props to ensure a beautiful variety of colors and textures in your baby’s gallery. Our flow for your session is planned out so as to not keep you in the studio longer than necessary. Feel free to contact us anytime with additional questions about who may come to the session or about other personal props.
We ask that you do not bring certain items into the studio: Glitter-loose glitter or glitter on clothing. Any food that has orange dust on it, such as Cheetos or Fish crackers. Also-Chocolate. Pets.
KIND WORDS
“We have been going to Olinda for all of our photos since the birth of our first baby and now our third. We have done the Watch Me Grow program and maternity photos for each pregnancy as well! She is so patient with the kids and is able to make each experience fun!
Our son does not go to anyone right now, but he loves Olinda! He actually smiles for her! She is an awesome photographer and the studio is beautiful! YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED!”
– Rebecca and Riley –