some memories never leave your bones
like salt in the sea;
they become part of you

I'm so excited to be working with you, and I can't wait for our time together! It's normal to be a little nervous about getting your portraits taken. Honestly, I still get the butterflies before having our family photos taken, too - and I do this for a living! I get it.

Welcome,

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your trust in me. It is an honor to create one of the integral parts of your family's legacy.

The topics I cover in this guide will help you get the very BEST out of our time together! I'll try to keep it short and as simple as possible because "simple" is our keyword!

xo Andrea

A NOTE ABOUT THIS GUIDE

Most of my beloved clients are attracted to my work's very specific and unique look, and hopefully, this describes you as well! I created this guide as a resource because I need your help to achieve this look for you. So I'd be grateful if you read the helpful tips here, and as always, please reach out if you have any questions at all!

Your Big Day

Are you ready for some good news? You don't need to do much! Besides outfit selection (which I cover in this guide), all I ask of you is to enjoy your experience. After all, the best part of appreciating the photos on your walls is knowing you had a fabulous time getting them taken.

Preparing for

Gum, transition lenses and spray tans...

All of these are cool. Just... not so much when it comes to photos ;). Gum shows no matter how much you think it won't (hiding it behind your teeth can't last for every shot), transition lenses look like sunglasses (we want to see those beautiful peepers!) and even if a spray tan looks ammmazing in person, it really throws off the skin tones that I absolutely pride myself in capturing. Your natural skin color is the BEST!

If you wear glasses and have transition lenses, you can remove the glasses altogether for the photos, or if they are an integral part of your look, you can change them out for a pair with traditional lenses. I will try my best to minimize the glare so we can see those gorgeous eyes!

I kindly ask all dads to wear timeless watches (or take them off altogether) and empty all pant pockets to free us of bulky hip and back areas. There is also no need to bring knives or other weapons. I promise you; this is a safe space, and weapons are not allowed in my house/studio.

What if I don't know what to do?

I think most of us feel this way at heart. Luckily not only are my sessions extremely relaxed, but I guide you and your family into poses and give you prompts so you can have moments of genuine laughter, real smiles while admiring your new baby, and lots of snuggles while they're still so little.. Often you won't even realize how amazing a moment is, and I sneak a photo (such as the example on the right, where I asked the family to admire their new baby and Dad got a kiss on his nose instead).

I'm here to see the beauty in what seems like ordinary moments. It is one of the best and most fulfilling parts of my work.

Newborns

I prefer to photograph newborn sessions within the first 21 days of baby’s birth for several reasons:

+ Babies are more likely to stay asleep and cooperate better during their poses
+ This young they like to be curled up and don’t mind being posed
+ Baby acne has not set in yet

I'll be prepared with wipes, burp cloths, and rags, as babies will have accidents during their sessions. All of my blankets are pre-washed.

Please bath or wash your baby the night before or in the morning of our session. I'd prefer if you don't put any oils into your baby's hair.

Once you arrive, please bring the whole car seat with the baby in it. After I ooohed and ahhhed over your sweet baby, we will either start with the session right away or feed real quick if the baby is hungry. Be prepared for lots of feedings during the session. For some mommas, this is a great day to kick off the milk flow.

We start the session with the family part, and I don't mind if the baby is awake during this part of the session, but please don't let your baby sleep all morning long.

Babies sleep better when they are warm, full, and clean. Therefore, it will be really warm during the session. I will turn off the air conditioning and fan. If necessary, I will turn on the space heater in the studio to approximately 75-80 degrees. Due to this, I dress for a warm few hours. If you plan to stay inside the studio, you should, too.

Things to bring

Your baby is working hard to get her photos taken and requires more cuddles (and feedings) than usual while modeling. I will be working with your baby in my studio, and once the family part is over, you can either stay in the studio or relax in the comfy hangout area with some snacks and drinks. I want you to feel as relaxed as possible. Newborns can feel if their parents are stressed. Parents are often taking naps or watching a movie during the photo session. You are welcome to come inside the studio at any time of the session to check on your newborn. For some poses, I even need your help.

I kindly ask that a family member takes the sibling/s after the family part of the session to a nearby park to guarantee that your new baby's sleepy phase won't be interrupted (and it is also nice if mom gets a mini-break ;)). There is a playground in the neighborhood and restaurants right outside of the neighborhood.

Bring the smoothie pacifier the hospital sent you home with. It's the bendable, green/blue/orangish one, and it won't leave marks on the baby's face.
Enough formula, if not breastfeeding.
Favorite blanket, if of neutral color and no heavy designs, we might include it into session.
Convenient outfit for your baby: An easy to take of onesie or romper, preferred if it opens in the front
Extra set clothes for baby and parents, in case of "accidents."

Session

just something to keep in mind...

The Day Of your

PLEASE don't worry if you run late!

For studio newborn sessions: I understand that life with a new baby can be challenging. Would you please not worry if you're a few minutes late? I have the best, most flattering light in my studio starting around 11.00 AM. Therefore all studio sessions are scheduled around that time on Tuesday & Thursday mornings for newborns; Wednesday & Friday for all other portrait sessions.

I have probably mentioned it before, if your baby doesn't cooperate on your session day for their baby only portraits, don't worry, I got you momma. I always reserve two days on my calendar in case of emergencies, or if you have to return to the studio with your new baby so we can have another try on their portraits.

DON'T DISCIPLINE THE KIDS

For the time we have together, please don't worry a single bit about older sibling's behavior. They are still adjusting to the new situation. I highly recommend to schedule the session as early as possible after the baby is born. That way the new baby is still interesting to the older sibling/s. Sometimes kids can sense that they are about to do something out of the norm (I mean, how often does your whole family get dressed up and head out to a photo session, am I right?), and they may act extra silly or start acting out. I understand you want them to be on their best behavior because I would feel the same with my kids! But in the spirit of just having a relaxing, fun experience (and getting good photos!), it works the best if disciplining pauses during the session. More often than not, it backfires anyway, and the grumpy faces stick around longer. I rarely see this, but I just wanted to plant a tiny seed that you don't have to worry about being "the bad guy" when we are together (hooray! Enjoy the day off!). Trust me; I'm Mama to two. If anyone has empathy for you, it's ME ;).

I have a "bag of tricks" that usually works if a child is having challenges. We have plenty of time to give them the breaks they need. I can stop the session for a bit to talk with them, and ask them about their favorite stories, shows, or toys. Make them feel special too, since so much focus is on the new baby. Worst case scenario? They stay grumpy, and you will get some pretty entertaining photos (but how adorable is he is this picture, right?

THE BIGGEST PIECE OF THE PIE

AKP Client Closet

Suppose you choose to use the AKP Client Closet; we probably set up a design appointment already. Yes, we have a whole session dedicated to just this topic. You will most likely come in to play dress-up, or we meet virtually. You can lean back now and scroll on to "Wardrobe Tips".

The use of the client closet is complimentary.

Some clients want to use their outfits! No problem with that.
One of the analogies I use to describe photography is baking. (Yes, you read that right!) There are many photographers out there who have all kinds of different styles. It's like a bakery where you're choosing which cupcake you want. I am honored you are choosing mine! Here is your part of the recipe we need to make the exact flavor you have chosen. I have a specific style and strive to be consistent with my images to know what kind of photos you will be getting from your session (dreamy, light, airy, classic, timeless, and glowy).

Outfits

Light colors & patterns

- THE BIGGEST IMPACT ON YOUR PHOTOS -

the "overall aesthetic"

Perhaps you've noticed that almost everyone on my website or Instagram feed is wearing light colors. There is a reason for this! A photographer's best friend is light. Light is my "paint," and I use it to get a particular look. When you wear light clothing, the sunlight bounces around and reflects into your face and anyone around you, creating a beautiful glow. It flatters your skin - making it creamier and hiding flaws. It also helps create the overall aesthetic of the photo.

When it comes to clothing, I aim to have it NOT distract from your faces and expressions! I want the focus to be solely on those dimples in your baby's cheeks, your son's freckles, your daughter's beautiful brown eyes. When you wear simple and timeless clothing, attention is drawn to your unique features instead of your outfit! When you wear busy patterns, it competes for that attention, and your eyes are naturally drawn there.

THE "SQUINT" TEST

When in doubt about a pattern, do a "squint test" - look at it, squint your eyes, and if the clothing item looks like a solid color or close to it, it's good to go! If it seems pretty busy and patterns can be easily distinguished, it's better to go with a more delicate design.

Nah!

Yeah!

While adorable in person, these kinds of patterns don't photograph well with my style of photography. High contrast areas (aka light and dark colors close together) attract the eye, compete for attention, and focus away from faces. One of those seemingly small choices that make a significant impact!

Light and delicate patterns are softer and easier on the eyes (and the overall color palette). If you squint at these, you won't see too much that sticks out. Once again, this clothing doesn't attract the eye, leaving it free to focus on the most important things - the faces you love!

pastels, creams, neutrals, whites

OUTFITS Hair & Makeup Shoes Props Whites Where to shop

OUTFITS Where to shop

NEXT >>

For the fellas, SIMPLICITY is the best bet! For shirts, I recommend henley and button-up dress shirts (rolled up to the elbows if the temperatures allow! It helps create a dressy, but not stuffy look).
For bottoms I highly recommend keeping them light. This can make a HUGE difference in the photo aesthetic. Khakis, tan pants or light grey will work. If you'd like to go the denim route, make them very light. I discourage dark pants because of the contrast it creates with other light colors. Your eye will go right to it!
*Adding layers and textures by way of blazers, suspenders, vests, etc. is always a good idea as long as the colors stay muted.

For the fellas

Keep it simple!

OUTFITS Where to shop

NEXT >>

Rylee & Cru

Favorite Shops

Jack Threads

GAP

J.Crew

Nordstrom Rack

ZARA

H&M

For the fellas

find it fast

FOR THE GENTS

FOR THE LADIES

TIPS FOR

Undergarment: Nude, low-cut bra (strapless, if an off-shoulder dress is chosen) and undies with no designs work best. For some dresses (tight fit), some clients choose to wear no slip at all.
Nails: Manicured & pedicured, natural or painted in solid, natural colors (nudes, white or french manicured), no heavy nail design to keep your pictures timeless
Jewelry: Meaningful, dainty pieces and I recommend to stay away from current trends

Mama

What happens after the session

Ideally, you get back in the car and say, "Wow, did we really just take photos or just hang out?" Or "She was the best. Andrea for President." I will probably make you promise to go out for ice cream or make recommendations to my favorite restaurant nearby to continue the fun. (P.S. Your baby/ies will sleep well that night, promise!)

On my end, I will start downloading & saving your pictures right away. The next day I will cull them with fresh eyes. I will need two weeks to properly go through the images, weed out multiples and blinks, and then edit them in my specific and unique style. Two weeks after your session date, I will send you an email with a link to my scheduler to set up your ordering appointment, where you will be able to view your photo proofs and make selections for your order!

And remember, I'm here to assist you every step of the way.

POST-PRODUCTION

Some FINAL words

My greatest wish is that you, your children, and your grandchildren ADORE these photos forever. After all, your family is what life is ALL about, and one of my greatest joys is that I get to be a small, behind-the-scenes part of preserving your legacy.

I can't wait to work with you!

THANK YOU!

I hope this guide covers everything you need to know to prep for your newborn session! If there is something I missed, or you need a recommendation, feel free to email me at hello@andreakrey.com

xo Andrea