Photography Session FAQs: Maternity, Newborn, Family & More

The ideal time for your maternity shoot is when you are between 28 and 32 weeks pregnant, but I am happy to work around your schedule.

I recommend booking at least a month in advance to ensure availability and give you time to prepare.

You’ll start by choosing a date for your maternity session from my calendar. I’ll also ask for your due date so I can reserve a spot for your newborn session ahead of time. Once your baby arrives, we’ll schedule the actual shoot date — usually when your little one is between five days and three weeks old.

You can learn more about the Maternity + Newborn package here.

Yes, I offer outdoor sessions during winter. Here are the 2023–2024 options for winter maternity sessions.

If it rains, don’t worry—I’m very flexible and will work with you to reschedule your session. If we can’t find a new date that works, I’ll refund your deposit (or you can choose to apply it as credit toward a future session).

For families with flexible schedules, we can often wait until the morning of your session to make the call. Forecasts aren’t always reliable, so if you’re open to it, we can plan to show up and see how it goes. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, we’ll simply reschedule, and you won’t lose your deposit. This approach often works out beautifully, since many sessions are still possible even with light rain in the forecast.

And one more note—cloudy skies are not a bad thing! They often create gorgeous, soft light and give us more freedom with posing and movement. Sessions are not rescheduled due to cloudy weather.

The Deluxe Sessions take place at several beautiful locations around the greater Seattle area that I have carefully selected based on the season, looks, and convenience. Most require 30–60 minutes of driving, but they are not challenging to get to. After you book, I will provide you with options to choose from, including sample photos.

You can also view highlights of my locations in my Maternity Portfolio or explore them in depth in my Maternity Photoshoot Location Guide.

The Maternity Mini-Sessions take place at several beautiful Redmond locations that I have selected based on the season, looks, and convenience. Based on the weather, I will pick the best location and email it to you 1–2 days before your session.

I also offer Maternity Mini-Sessions at Rattlesnake Lake, a convenient location with a stunning PNW backdrop.

Although a sunny day is never guaranteed in Seattle, booking the outdoor Maternity Deluxe session gives you the best chance for golden hour. Aslo, when picking the location for your session, beaches and grass fields are best for the golden light.

I only reschedule sessions due to rain. We will proceed with the session on a cloudy day.

At this time, I do not offer a client wardrobe. However, once you book your session, I will send you a prep guide with recommendations on where you can rent or purchase high-quality gowns.

Sure, as long as you don’t mind changing in nature (if your session is outdoors).

An outfit change is typically requested by moms who want a few fancy shots in a maternity gown that are a bit more “posed” and the rest of the shots in more casual clothes with natural, guided posing.

If you want to accomplish this, I’d recommend booking the Deluxe Session. If you’re booking a Mini-Session, there will not be enough time for an outfit change.

After you book your session, I will email you detailed prep information, including the outfit inspiration guide and online styling service, to help you look your best for the session.

You can also email or text me with any styling questions.

Of course! Pets make photos extra fun. Just let me know at booking if you’ll be bringing one (and what kind), so I can plan ahead. We’ll start with a few shots that include your pet, then continue with photos without them—so please have a plan for keeping them safe during that time. And don’t forget a leash and plenty of treats to keep tails wagging.

If your kiddo is not cooperating – don’t worry (because they will feel that). I will follow their lead and do my best to capture happy moments.

There will never be any pressure to look into the camera to smile. I have plenty of tricks to help get your kiddos engaged and interested, so 99% of the time, I can get you plenty of shots. (And for that 1% – we will work together to do our best.)

Every photographer has a unique style, feel, and aesthetic in their photos. So before booking a session with me, I want to make sure that you resonate with my work so that I can meet your expectations and deliver photos that you’ll love. That’s why I’ve put together a diverse Maternity Portfolio section so you can get a feel of my style in different locations and seasons.

I will guide, prompt, and direct your family the entire time, so you don’t have to worry about a thing. I aim for natural-looking poses while also capturing candids along the way.

Here’s how one of my clients, Yuliana, describes her experience: “We chose Lana for our maternity outdoor mini session and newborn studio deluxe session. We had a great experience both times! Lana is great at giving directions for poses and makes you feel comfortable the whole session. During our newborn shoot, she was patient while we had to feed and change our baby. Lana really is the baby whisperer and swaddler. We got some adorable wrap photos and family photos.”

A Mini-Session includes 10 hand-edited images (that you pick from a gallery of 40–60 photos), while a Deluxe Session includes 25 (that you pick from a gallery of 80–100 photos).

After you see your proof gallery, you can purchase additional hand-edited photos for $20 each. Information on purchasing additional images will be included with your online proof gallery.

In addition, a full-gallery upgrade is available for $200. It includes all the images in your proof gallery with a standard color edit (as they appear in your proof gallery, no hand-edit). Photos will be in full print resolution with print rights.

(See the next question for more information about the difference between hand editing and color editing.)

Color edit includes an overall color adjustment to make the photos appear brighter, more colorful, and properly exposed.

In addition to the color edit, hand edit includes basic skin smoothing, removal of blemishes, bruises, and a few fly-aways, as well as more detailed color adjustments. It gives your photos a more “polished” look.

You’ll receive your proof gallery within four days of your session. Select your favorites within seven days, and your final hand-edited images will be delivered within one week of your selections.

A $100 deposit is required to book your session. The remaining balance is due the day before your photoshoot. (An invoice will be emailed to you.)

All payments are made by credit card, and your proof gallery is delivered once your session is paid in full.

The ideal time for a newborn session is between five days and three weeks after birth. Booking two to three months before your due date helps ensure availability. (If your baby is already here, don’t worry. Please see the next question below.)

For older babies, my In-Home Lifestyle or Baby In Your Arms sessions are excellent options. If you prefer a Deluxe or Mini Wrapped studio session, we can still create beautiful images. Just note that since older babies tend to be more alert and less sleepy, we may not achieve every curled, sleepy pose—but we’ll capture equally lovely expressions and natural moments that reflect your baby’s growing personality.

First of all, congratulations! And please don’t worry — you’re not alone. Many families reach out after their baby arrives.

If your little one is already here, you can simply choose any newborn session type above and click the Book Now button — it will take you to my calendar where you can select your preferred date from the available appointments and complete your booking.

When booking, simply choose the date closest to your due date to reserve your spot on my calendar.

Since babies arrive on their own schedule, we’ll finalize your actual session date once your little one is born. Most sessions take place between five days and three weeks after birth.

If your baby arrives earlier or later than expected, don’t worry—I build flexibility into my calendar for this exact reason and will adjust your appointment to fit your baby’s arrival.

Completely normal—and not a problem at all. I will adjust the session plan to your little one’s needs, whether that means extra feeding, soothing, or snuggle breaks.

If your baby decides not to sleep, we’ll simply move forward with awake shots. Awake photos are just as beautiful—showing their eyes open, curious expressions, and all the tiny details that make them unique. Each baby is different and brings their own personality to the session, and I love capturing that individuality in a calm, natural way.

I’ve worked with thousands of newborns and know how to create timeless, heartfelt images no matter how the day unfolds.

Yes. I direct the entire session, so you never have to guess what to do. I’ll give simple prompts (where to stand or sit, how to hold your baby, where to look), so everything looks natural and relaxed. I’ll demonstrate poses when helpful. Your only job is to love your baby—I’ll take care of the rest.

Here’s how one of my clients, Yuliana, describes her experience: “Lana is great at giving directions for poses and makes you feel comfortable the whole session. During our newborn shoot, she was patient while we fed and changed our baby. Lana really is the baby whisperer and swaddler.”

Yes! For twins or multiples, please book either the Deluxe Studio Session or the In-Home Lifestyle Session—both offer enough time, flexibility, and variety to ensure a calm and safe experience for everyone.

For Deluxe Studio Sessions, I bring an additional photographer to assist me with safely handling and posing multiple babies. As a result, there is an extra fee for twin sessions. Each baby is treated with care and attention, and we’ll capture a mix of individual portraits and together moments that highlight their unique connection.

Absolutely. Including siblings or grandparents adds even more meaning to your photos.

Siblings can be included in any newborn session. Even the Mini Wrapped Session has an optional family or sibling add-on that’s perfect for capturing those first sweet interactions.

If you’d like to include grandparents, the Deluxe Studio Session or In-Home Lifestyle Session works best—they allow extra time and flexibility for extended family portraits.

Need help deciding? See: How to Choose the Right Newborn Session for You

Every photographer has a unique style, so it’s important that my aesthetic feels right for you. You can explore my Newborn Portfolio to see examples from both studio and in-home sessions and get a feel for my warm, timeless, connection-focused approach.

Studio Sessions take place in my natural light Kirkland studio and feature professional props, curated setups, and classic newborn poses.

In-Home Sessions are lifestyle-based and focus on natural family interactions in your own environment—your bedroom, nursery, or living room. They also offer the convenience of not having to leave your home during those early weeks, allowing you to stay comfortable and relaxed while I come to you.

Both create timeless images; the choice depends on whether you prefer a styled experience or a cozy, documentary feel.

Yes! I offer three maternity + newborn bundle options for a seamless, cohesive experience (and a little savings too). You can find all package details and examples in my Maternity Photoshoots section.

Yes. For studio sessions, I offer a curated selection of professional newborn props—wraps, headbands, bonnets, baskets, and blankets—all safety-tested and chosen for their timeless, organic look.

After you book your session, I’ll ask you a few questions about your preferences and color choices. Your answers help me design and customize the setups and props I’ll be using so your session feels personal and beautifully tailored to your family.

For in-home sessions, I bring a few minimal props that blend beautifully into your space.

You’re welcome to bring small, meaningful items—for example, a family heirloom or handmade blanket. I don’t recommend buying new props for your session, since not all are designed with newborn safety or aesthetic harmony in mind.

For parents and siblings, you’ll receive a detailed prep guide with access to an online styling service that helps coordinate outfits for the whole family. Soft, neutral tones always photograph beautifully and create that timeless, cohesive look you see throughout my portfolio.

For your baby:

• For studio sessions, I provide all the outfits and wraps—each piece is carefully chosen for comfort, safety, and a classic, natural aesthetic that photographs beautifully.
• For in-home sessions, a simple white onesie or soft neutral romper works perfectly and blends effortlessly into your home environment.

Yes—pets are family too!

For in-home sessions, gentle and well-behaved pets are welcome to join. I’ll help plan safe, natural moments that show the bond between your baby and your furry friend.

For studio sessions, well-behaved small and mid-sized pups are welcome—but please follow a few house rules to keep everyone comfortable and safe:

• Potty break before you arrive (helps your pup relax and protects the white floors)
• Short and sweet cameo (we’ll bring your dog in for their moment, then they can rest outside or in the car)
• Clean paws, please (carry in if possible, or do a quick paw-wipe at the door; please plan on bringing wipes or a towel)
• Four paws on the floor (studio couches and chairs are for humans only)
• Skip the wanderings (keep pups by your side; props and gear are delicate)
• A friendly heads-up: extra cleaning or furniture touch-ups cost $100—and I’d much rather save you that cost.

Please don’t worry about having a spotless home. We’ll focus on bright, naturally lit spaces, such as your bedroom, family room, or nursery. This way, only a few areas of your house must be prepared.

Yes, I am available to travel to NYC monthly. Learn more about my newborn photography services in New York here.

My light-filled Kirkland studio is located at 720 Market St Ste E, Kirkland, WA 98033, in the heart of the Market Neighborhood (see on Google Maps). There’s plenty of free street parking nearby.

Most clients visit from the Greater Seattle area—including Bellevue, Redmond, Mercer Island, Sammamish, Issaquah,  Renton, Bothell, Kenmore, Shoreline, Everett, and Tacoma.

For in-home sessions, I travel within a 25-mile radius of Kirkland. Travel fees apply beyond that range.

Yes!

Each session includes a set number of hand-edited (retouched) images in its base price. After viewing your proof gallery, you can purchase additional hand-edited photos for $20 each.

You can also upgrade to receive your full or partial gallery with standard color edit:

• Deluxe or Mini Wrapped (with Parent Add-On): partial gallery upgrade — $200. (All the photos minus the solo shots of the baby with props.)
• In-Home Lifestyle or Baby In Your Arms: full gallery upgrade — $200.

All final images are high-resolution and print-ready.

(Also, see the next question for more information about the difference between hand editing and color editing.)

Color Edit (color correction): exposure and tone adjustments for a bright, natural look.

Hand Edit (retouching): refined adjustments—more detailed color adjustments, smoothing skin, reducing redness, removing blemishes, bruises, or flyaways—for a polished fine-art finish.

You’ll receive your proof gallery within four days of your session. Select your favorites within seven days, and your final hand-edited images will be delivered within one week of your selections.

A $100 deposit is required to book your session. The remaining balance is due the day before your photoshoot. (An invoice will be emailed to you.)

All payments are made by credit card, and your proof gallery is delivered once your session is paid in full.

Yes!

All of my sessions include a print release, giving you the freedom to print your photos anywhere you like, as many times as you wish, for personal use.

However, if you prefer done-for-you solutions and museum-quality craftsmanship, I offer a curated collection of heirloom products—including albums, wall art, and fine-art prints—crafted from premium materials that are designed to last for generations.

If you’re interested, we can discuss these options during your session prep so I can help you choose what works best for your home and lifestyle.

The Family Deluxe Sessions take place at several beautiful locations around the greater Seattle area that I have carefully selected based on the season, looks, and convenience. Most of them will require 30–60 minutes of driving. However, they are not challenging to get to. I will provide you with options to choose from, including sample photos, after you book.

If it rains, don’t worry—I’m very flexible and will work with you to reschedule your session. If we can’t find a new date that works, I’ll refund your deposit (or you can choose to apply it as credit toward a future session).

For families with flexible schedules, we can often wait until the morning of your session to make the call. Forecasts aren’t always reliable, so if you’re open to it, we can plan to show up and see how it goes. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, we’ll simply reschedule, and you won’t lose your deposit. This approach often works out beautifully, since many sessions are still possible even with light rain in the forecast.

And one more note—cloudy skies are not a bad thing! They often create gorgeous, soft light and give us more freedom with posing and movement. Sessions are not rescheduled due to cloudy weather.

The Family Mini-Sessions take place at several beautiful locations around the Redmond area that I have carefully selected based on the season, looks, and convenience. Based on the weather, I will pick the best location and email it to you 1–2 days before your session.

Although a sunny day is never guaranteed in Seattle, booking the outdoor Family Deluxe session gives you the best chance for golden hour.

After you book your session, I will email you detailed prep information, including the outfit inspiration guide and online styling service, to help you look your best for the session.

You can also email or text me with any styling questions.

If your kiddo is not cooperating – don’t worry (because they will feel that). I will follow their lead and do my best to capture happy moments.

There will never be any pressure to look into the camera to smile. I have plenty of tricks to help get your kiddos engaged and interested, so 99% of the time, I can get you plenty of shots. (And for that 1% – we will work together to do our best.)

Outdoor Sessions:

Pups are welcome to join us outside—nothing says “family” like wagging tails in the frame! All of my go-to locations are dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry sidekick along.

• Give me a heads-up at booking: Mention that your dog will tag along, and I’ll plan the shot list accordingly.
• Star moment first, then chill time: We’ll capture a few fun frames with your pup right away. After their cameo, please have a game plan—a leash, a comfy spot with a blanket, or a helper—to keep them safe and relaxed while we finish the rest of the photos.
• Leash and essentials: A sturdy leash, water bowl, and a couple of high-value treats go a long way toward keeping tails wagging and noses pointing toward the camera.

Studio Session:

Small and mid-sized pups are welcome in my studio, but please follow a few house rules to keep everyone comfortable and safe.

• Potty break before you arrive: A quick walk right before heading to the studio helps your dog relax and prevents any “uh-oh” moments on the spotless white floors.
• Short and sweet cameo: The studio is full of delicate gear and props, so we’ll invite your dog in for their moment in front of the lens, then have them head back outside (or to the car) once we’ve nailed the shot.
• Clean paws, please: My shooting area has bright-white floors. If you can carry your dog in, perfect; if not, a quick paw-wipe at the door works great. (Toss a small pack of wipes or a towel in your bag—thank you!)
• Four paws on the floor: The white couches and chairs are reserved for the human stars. As adorable as pups look lounging, they’ll need to stay on the floor so everything stays photo-ready.
• Skip the wanderings: New places are exciting, but sniffing and exploring studio props and gear may not be safe for your pup. Please keep your dog beside you at all times.

(A friendly heads-up: extra cleaning or furniture touch-ups cost $100, and I’d much rather save you that cost.)

I will guide, prompt, and direct you the entire time, so you don't have to worry about a thing. I aim for natural-looking poses while also capturing candids along the way.

Every photographer has a unique style, feel, and aesthetic in their photos. So before booking a session with me, I want to make sure that you resonate with my work so that I can meet your expectations and deliver photos that you’ll love. That’s why I’ve put together a diverse Family Portfolio section so you can get a feel of my style in different locations and seasons.

A Mini-Session includes 10 hand-edited images (that you pick from a gallery of 40–60 photos), while a Deluxe Session includes 25 (that you pick from a gallery of 80–100 photos).

After you see your proof gallery, you can purchase additional hand-edited photos for $20 each. Information on purchasing additional images will be included with your online proof gallery.

In addition, a full-gallery upgrade is available for $200. It includes all the images in your proof gallery with a standard color edit (as they appear in your proof gallery, no hand-edit). Photos will be in full print resolution with print rights.

(See the next question for more information about the difference between hand editing and color editing.)

The sweet spot for many of my clients is to photograph their families once per year. I’ve also created a 10-year family photo plan to help you create a collection of family photos you’ll love.

Color edit includes an overall color adjustment to make the photos appear brighter, more colorful, and properly exposed.

In addition to the color edit, hand edit includes basic skin smoothing, removal of blemishes, bruises, and a few fly-aways, as well as more detailed color adjustments. It gives your photos a more “polished” look.

You’ll receive your proof gallery within four days of your session. Select your favorites within seven days, and your final hand-edited images will be delivered within one week of your selections.

A $100 deposit is required to book your session. The remaining balance is due the day before your photoshoot. (An invoice will be emailed to you.)

All payments are made by credit card, and your proof gallery is delivered once your session is paid in full.

The base price of this session includes a 6-inch naked cake styled with berries or flowers and a number “1” topper.

I also offer a premium cake option for an additional $100. This cake is slightly more dressed, with specific colors and frosting designs. After you book, I will provide a few color options to choose from.

If your child has an allergy, I require you to bring your cake. (For best results, I recommend a 6-inch naked cake.)

Yes, absolutely. I will provide a cake stand.

I will also style the cake with fruits or flowers and add a number “1” topper.

My cozy, light-filled newborn studio is in Kirkland’s iconic Market Neighborhood, at 720 Market St Ste E, Kirkland, WA 98033 (Directions).

My clients typically travel from all over the greater Seattle area, including Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond, Sammamish, Issaquah, Renton, Bothell, Kenmore, Shoreline, and even as far as Tacoma and Everett.

Yes. There is usually plenty of free street parking in front of and around the studio.

After completing your booking, you will receive an email with prep info and tips to help your family look their best for the session.

You don’t need a perfectly cooperative kid for beautiful photos. I’ll follow their lead, keep things light, and use prompts that encourage real connection (not forced smiles).

There’s never pressure for everyone to stare at the camera the whole time. And, yes, I have a long list of kid-approved tricks that work far more often than they should.

Yes. Life happens, especially with kids. If someone wakes up sick, please reach out as soon as possible, and we’ll find the next available option.

Payments are made by credit card. A $100 deposit is required to book your session. The remaining balance is due by the session date (you’ll receive an invoice reminder the day before). Proof galleries are delivered once payment is complete.

Depending on the add-on options you pick, your session will include 10 to 20 hand-edited images. If you would like to purchase additional hand-edited images, they are available for $20 each. Information on purchasing additional images will be included with your online proof gallery.

Additionally, an entire gallery upgrade is available for $200. It includes all the images in your proof gallery with a standard color edit (as they appear in your proof gallery, no hand-editing). Photos will be in high resolution with print rights.

The proof gallery is delivered within 4 days of your session. Your selections are due within 7 days of receiving your proof gallery. Final hand-edited images are delivered within 7 days after you submit your picks.

If you purchase the full gallery upgrade, you’ll receive the download link within 48 hours of payment.

Color edit is the polished, natural look you see in your proof gallery—overall color and exposure refinements for a cohesive result.

Hand-edit (retouching) includes gentle skin smoothing, removing temporary blemishes/bruises, taming flyaways, and more detailed finishing touches—while still keeping everyone looking natural.

To redeem your gift card, please follow these steps:

1. Navigate to Book a Shoot section.
2. Click the “Redeem Gift Certificate” button.
3. Enter your unique code from your gift certificate. The system will display the type of session your gift certificate covers.
4. Proceed to booking the desired session by picking the date and time, and filling out the booking form.

Your gift certificate should indicate the type of service that was purchased.

Alternatively, you can check online by following these steps:

1. Navigate to Book a Shoot section.
2. Click the “Redeem Gift Certificate” button.
3. Enter your unique code from your gift certificate. The system will display the type of session your gift certificate covers.

Absolutely. My popular services can be purchased as a thoughtful gift for special occasions, like baby showers, Mother’s Day, birthdays, and Christmas.

The entire process is straightforward and is sure to delight the recipient. Learn how it works here.