📸 At Julie Ann Photography, my goal is to help you remember the real moments—the soft snuggles, the contagious giggles, and the quiet beauty of everyday life with little ones. This guide will help you prepare for a stress-free, meaningful in-home session that celebrates your family just as you are.

---

1. 🏠 Getting Your Home Ready (Spoiler: It Doesn’t Have to Be Perfect)

Your home is the heart of your family’s story. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s authenticity.

Here’s what to do before I arrive:

• Tidy, don’t deep clean. Focus on a few well-lit spaces: the living room, master bedroom, nursery, or playroom. Clear clutter from tables and countertops, but don’t worry about every detail.
• Open the curtains. Natural light is your best friend. I’ll help adjust blinds or reposition furniture if needed.
• Personal touches welcome. Keep a few favorite books, toys, or blankets around—these make sweet, sentimental details in your images.

---

2. 👚 What to Wear for a Timeless Look

Keep it simple and comfortable—your connection is what makes these photos shine.

Styling Tips:

• Neutral tones & soft textures. Think ivory, oatmeal, soft blush, sage, or denim. Earthy and muted tones photograph beautifully indoors.
• Coordinate, don’t match. Choose a palette with 2–3 colors that work well together. Avoid bold patterns, graphics, or neon colors.
• Comfort first, especially for kids. Barefoot babies in cozy knits or a favorite dress always feel timeless and true to life. Sometimes a pajama session is just what’s in the cards & that is perfect too.
• Yes, you can repeat outfits. If your child insists on wearing their favorite pajamas or dress-up outfit for a few shots, we’ll roll with it—those images often become your favorites.

Need help choosing outfits? I’m happy to consult.

---

3. 🧸 What to Expect with Young Children

Children under five are wonderfully unpredictable—and that’s exactly what we want. The magic happens in the in-between moments: belly laughs, toddler cuddles, and spontaneous play.

Here’s what helps:

• Don’t stress about cooperation. I don’t expect perfect poses. I gently guide and observe, capturing the love between you and your child as it naturally unfolds.
• Let them lead. If your toddler wants to show me their favorite toy or dance around the room, we’ll embrace that energy.
• Snuggle breaks encouraged. Your lap, a cozy blanket, and a quiet moment are perfect when little ones need a reset.

---

---

4. 📷 What Kinds of Moments I’ll Capture

Every session is unique, but here are some favorite moments I often photograph:

• Snuggling on the couch or bed
• Playing with favorite toys (blocks, dolls, puzzles)
• Baby belly kisses, tickle fights, or storytime
• Feeding a snack or nursing a baby
• Children playing alone while parents watch quietly
• Hugs at the door, tiny feet on tiptoe, or quiet glances

We’ll move gently and intuitively through your session with plenty of pauses and time for breaks.

---

5. 💡 Final Tips for a Meaningful Session

• Plan around nap time. A well-rested little one = a happier session.
• Keep snacks handy. Clean, easy snacks like small crackers can help when needed.
• Set the tone with calm energy. Children follow your lead. If you’re relaxed and present, they will be too.
• Give yourself permission to be real. These portraits are about love, not perfection.