Frequently Asked Questions

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.

Yes. I offer Maternity + Newborn Packages for families who already know they want both stages photographed.

Each package combines a maternity session with a newborn session and includes savings compared with booking the included sessions separately. You can compare the current package options, see examples, and review complete pricing and booking details on my Maternity Sessions page.

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.

I actively monitor weather and safety conditions. If steady rain, high winds, or unsafe conditions prevent the session from going forward, I’ll work with you to reschedule.

If no suitable replacement date works, I’ll refund your booking deposit.

Overcast skies, clouds, and normal seasonal changes alone are not reasons to reschedule.

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.

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.”

That is a very normal concern. I keep the session moving, follow your child’s lead, and use simple prompts and plenty of little tricks to help keep kids engaged and interested. Most of the time, that gives us plenty of photos you will be happy with. And if your child is having a harder day, we will still work together and do our best with where they are.

Yes. If you would like to bring a pet, please let me know at booking so I can help the session flow smoothly. We usually begin with a few images that include your pet, then continue without them. Please bring a leash and have a plan for your pet once their part of the session is finished.

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 will receive your online proof gallery within four days of your session. Once you send me your favorites, your final hand-edited images will be emailed within one week.

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.

For a deeper dive into this topic: When to Schedule Your Newborn Photos: A Practical Guide for Real Life

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.

Yes, depending on the newborn session you choose.

Studio Deluxe can include siblings and grandparents. Baby In Your Arms can include siblings, while In-Home Lifestyle can include both siblings and grandparents.

Mini Wrapped is designed entirely around your baby, so siblings, grandparents, and other family members are not included.

If having grandparents in the photographs is important to you, Studio Deluxe or In-Home Lifestyle will be the best fit.

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. 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, when the session you book allows pets.

For in-home newborn sessions, pets can be included naturally in your home while remaining safely supervised.

For eligible studio newborn sessions, small and mid-sized dogs may be included. Please let me know at booking so I can plan their photographs. When your dog is not being photographed, they must remain securely controlled by a responsible adult or be moved to another safe location arranged in advance.

For studio sessions, please plan for a potty break before arrival, clean paws, dogs staying off furniture, and no roaming near props or photography equipment. Accidents, pet-caused damage, or excessive cleaning may result in a $100 cleanup fee.

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.

I offer in-home lifestyle newborn sessions throughout Seattle, West Seattle, Bellevue, and surrounding Eastside neighborhoods. My standard travel radius is 25 miles from Kirkland. A travel fee ($100–$200) applies for homes outside that radius. I’m happy to confirm travel details before you book your session.

Yes. Every newborn session gives you the option to purchase additional hand-edited images for $20 each.

For Baby In Your Arms and In-Home Lifestyle, you can also upgrade to the full proof gallery for $200 with standard color correction. Studio Deluxe offers a similar $200 gallery upgrade, but posed solo baby-with-props images are excluded.

Mini Wrapped does not offer a full-gallery upgrade.

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.

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.

You will receive your online proof gallery within four days of your session. Once you send me your favorites, your final hand-edited images will be emailed within one week.

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.

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.

I actively monitor weather and safety conditions. If steady rain, high winds, or unsafe conditions prevent the session from going forward, I’ll work with you to reschedule.

If no suitable replacement date works, I’ll refund your booking deposit.

Overcast skies, clouds, and normal seasonal changes alone are not reasons to reschedule.

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.

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.)

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.

That is a very normal concern. I keep the session moving, follow your child’s lead, and use simple prompts and plenty of little tricks to help keep kids engaged and interested. Most of the time, that gives us plenty of photos you will be happy with. And if your child is having a harder day, we will still work together and do our best with where they are.

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.

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 will receive your online proof gallery within four days of your session. Once you send me your favorites, your final hand-edited images will be emailed within one week.

Yes. You will not be left wondering where to stand, where to look, or what to do with your hands.

I will guide the small details throughout the appointment. That may mean adjusting how you hold your child, helping with your angle, showing you where to stand, or asking your family to walk or interact instead of holding one pose.

The direction is specific enough that you know what to do while still leaving room for natural expressions and interaction.

The Cake Smash Mini-Session includes a 6-inch naked cake.

A premium cake is available for an additional $100. I’ll follow up about the available cake choices before placing the order.

If your child has a food allergy or specific dietary need, you will need to bring your own 6-inch naked cake. A $30 cake credit will be applied to your invoice.

Yes. I provide the cake stand, number ‘1’ topper, and party hat used for the standard Cake Smash setup. That is one less set of details for you to source, transport, and coordinate.

That is completely okay. Some babies are immediately interested in the cake, some take their time, and some are much more interested in everything happening around them.

I follow your baby’s reaction rather than trying to force one. If you already know you would rather skip the cake altogether, the Classic 1st Birthday Milestone Mini Session is the better fit.

Yes. For either first-birthday session, you may add five photographs of your baby with family for $200. The add-on adds 20 minutes to the appointment.

If you plan to be photographed, the prep guide and online styling service can also help you coordinate clothing with the simple studio setting.

The light-filled studio is located in Kirkland’s Market neighborhood:

720 Market St, Ste E
Kirkland, WA 98033

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

If anyone attending the session is sick, please contact me before the session so we can decide whether rescheduling is needed.

A $100 booking deposit reserves your session. The remaining balance is due on the day of the session. I’ll send an invoice reminder the day before, and all major credit cards are accepted.

You may also purchase the full proof gallery with standard color correction for $200. The full-gallery upgrade does not include full hand-retouching of every image.

Your proof gallery is delivered within 4 days after the session.

You then have 7 days to submit your selections. Final hand-edited photographs are delivered within 7 days of receiving those selections.

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.