MENU
BOOK SESSION
May 4, 2024

Anchorage Alaska Newborn Photographer | What Actually Happens At A Newborn Session

What actually happens during a newborn session?

Whether you’re thinking about booking a newborn session or already have a date on the books, I’m sure you’re a bit curious about what, exactly, goes on during a newborn session. How do you get those peaceful looking images? How involved are the parents for the shoot itself? Is it actually possible to “pose” an infant? Below I’m pulling back the curtain about what actually happens during a newborn photography session.

The Heat is Turned Up
It sounds bizarre, but I prefer to set the temperature much higher during a newborn than what you’d normally have it. This helps baby feel warm, comfortable, and — most importantly, sleepy. I also have a space heater so that I can turn the studio down if mom and dad are too warm and just baby can feel the warmth 😀 

I Take Care of All the Poses and Props
You don’t have to come up with poses or image ideas. I’ve got all that covered and know exactly how to set up an image to get great shots. l also take care of all the prop setup and wrapping.

Mom & Dad Help Spot Baby
Though I do most of the work, I definitely need parents’ help during some of the poses to ensure safety.

Safety is ALWAYS My First Priority
No matter what, I place your child’s safety above all else. If we need to take a break, we will. If a pose isn’t working, there’s always another one to try. I will never put your baby in an unsafe position or prop.

I Have Tricks for Helping Keep Baby Calm
I’ve done hundreds of newborn sessions with over 14 years experience and  I  have a few tricks up my sleeve to help calm fussy babies. However, in the case of a baby who is very upset, I am more than happy to reschedule.

Sibling Photos Are Done First or Last
We know that having your kids at the shoot for the entire session may be a bit much for them. For that reason, we suggest having sibling poses done either at the beginning or the end of the session, that way they don’t have to say throughout. I typically start with family, sibling, and then move to just baby. Or we can go in reverse!

palmer family child newborn photographer

May 4, 2024

Anchorage Alaska Newborn Photographer | Newborn Studio Session

Newborn sessions are one of my favorite types of sessions to do. I love bringing newly expanded families into the studio and watch as the love on their precious little one. All those tiny little details that are going to change so quickly are captured <3 palmer family child vacation photographer

May 4, 2024

Alaska Family Photographer | Fireweed Session

Fireweed season! I love finding these fields of flowers! Such a special flower for Alaska! This family was full of smiles and brought grandma and grandpa too! I absolutely LOVE when grandparents are involved in the session! It adds extra meaning that is close to my heart <3 palmer family child vacation photographer

May 4, 2024

Anchorage Alaska Family Photographer | Palmer Alaska

I met this family at Eklutna Lake on one of our very gorgeous days last summer! They had been traveling around the US in their RV! I loved hearing about their adventures and their favorites places. Eklutna was the perfect backdrop with its stunning scenery and ease of access for their little guy! Alaska is full of these gem locations that are perfect for vacationing families as well as local Alaskan’s!

palmer family vacation photographer

May 4, 2024

Anchorage Family Adventure Photographer | Anchorage Alaska – 7 Tips for Preparing for Your Summer Session

You know we’re ready for a nice summer, but are you? We’ve had some rainy wet summers and long winters. So bring on the sunshine!
Here are seven ways you can make sure your summer portrait session goes off without a hitch! Especially since we may have forgotten what summers actually look like 😉

1. Dress appropriately. Summer still means a variety of weather, which means layers are great! Adding a cardigan to a sleeveless dress or top is a great choice. For boys pairing pants with a short sleeve or also bringing a light top to layer is also a good option.

2. Think about your hair. If you or a family member’s hair reacts to humidity or moisture in a negative way, opt for a hairstyle that won’t leave you feeling insecure. For example, a pretty braid or an updo is a good choice. Or use a little extra product to keep frizz at bay.

3.Pack necessities. When packing your photo shoot necessities, I recommend bringing the following items: Lots of water for all, a snack for any grumps, bug spray, bear spray if you are concerned about bears (I usually have some as well just in case), nail trimmer, and makeup touchup.

4. Get creative with session ideas. Summer offers a host of activities that lend themselves to amazing photo sessions. For example, adding bubbles for the littles. They love the whimsy of bubbles, honestly who doesn’t!? A fun quilt or lace blanket to sit on or even have the kids run under as you and your partner hold it up. If we are doing a session with water, rain boots are always a solid choice.

5. Think about head to toe details. For example, if you’re wearing flip-flops or open toed shoes, you want to have manicured feet. I also recommend easy slide on shoes if we are doing some walking and you want to keep your shoes nice while we roam around the location.

6. I mentioned bug spray above as a necessity to pack. The wipes are amazing. The mosquito’s here can be quite a nuisance. I will edit out those pesky photo bombers but it’s good to prepared mentally as well!

7. Land of the midnight sun. Remember that our summers are full of longer days so make sure to keep that in mind when scheduling your session. We may have to adjust naps/sleep schedules to accommodate sessions. So just ensure everyone has had plenty of rest!

Remember to have FUN! I love summer sessions with the sun, the flowers, mountains, and lakes or streams. I can’t wait to adventure with you!

Anchorage Alaska Family Photographer

Alaska Adventure Anchorage Family photography