• What is an in-home documentary newborn session?
Unlike traditional posed newborn photography, documentary sessions capture your family’s real life at home in the early weeks. No props, no forced smiles—just authentic moments like cuddles on the couch, feedings, diaper changes, and siblings welcoming their new baby.
• When should we schedule the session?
Newborn sessions are best booked during pregnancy to secure a spot on my calendar. I typically photograph babies within the first two to three weeks, but because my approach is lifestyle-based, there’s no strict age limit—you’ll love images of your little one at any stage.
• How long does the session last?
Expect about 1-2 hours. This gives us space for feeding, changing, and soothing breaks so everything feels relaxed and unrushed.
• What do we need to do to prepare our home?
No deep cleaning necessary. I use natural light and work with the spaces you already live in. A quick tidy-up of the areas where you spend the most time (bedroom, nursery, living room) is plenty. Your home doesn’t need to be perfect—it just needs to be yours.
• What should we wear?
Comfort is key. Neutrals and soft tones photograph beautifully, but I always encourage you to wear what feels natural and true to your family’s style. Bare baby skin, swaddles, and simple onesies are timeless.
Can siblings and pets be included?
Absolutely. This session is about your family’s story. Big brothers and sisters (and even furry siblings) are welcome to be part of the memories.
What if my baby is fussy the entire time?
That’s completely normal. Babies cry, feed, and need snuggles—that’s part of your story. I don’t expect a “perfectly behaved” baby. In fact, those real-life moments often make for the most powerful images.
Do you bring props or wraps?
No. My focus is on capturing your family as you are. I may use blankets, swaddles, or items you already own, but there are no studio props, baskets, or elaborate setups.
• What’s the difference between an in-home documentary session and a studio session?
In-home sessions are intimate and personal, documenting your family in your own space. Studio sessions offer an editorial look with curated sets and controlled lighting. Both are beautiful options—it simply depends on what feels right for your family.
• When will we receive our photos?
Following your session, you’ll be invited to select from a custom collection of images from your session to build into handcrafted albums and fine art pieces—Artwork, prints, and albums are purchased separately so your family can invest in the pieces that speak most to you. Approximately one week after your session, you will receive a link to a private online gallery of proof images to choose your digital images, prints, canvases and/or albums. Once chosen, each image is carefully retouched to reflect the warmth and authenticity of your family’s story and digitally delivered to you for your digital image selections, prints, canvases and albums are sent to my professional lab to create custom artwork for your family to enjoy for generations to come. I will then hand-deliver your beautiful portraits at a time that is convenient for you or you may also schedule a time to pick them up at my studio.
If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to reach out through my contact page. I cannot wait to meet your sweet new little one and capture these moments for you!
Julie Ann Photography • MINNEAPOLIS PHOTOGRAPHER 