2024 COVID-19 Update: Standard Studio Safeguards and Procedures to Protect Our Petite, Precious Clients

As of 2024, some of the 2020 practices are followed. The studio is fully boosted and is happy to reschedule for sick kiddos. Please read below for the FAQ.

For parents visiting:

• We have a mask on or either on hand at all times

• Parents are not required to wear a mask

• Sick kiddos and individuals cannot be in the studio, though there’s a zero-fee rescheduling policy for illnesses.

• No shoes are allowed in the studio. Strollers and purses stay in the mothers’ room.

• Only individuals in the photography session can be at the studio.

• There is no overlap in clients; there’s a 60-minute break between sessions so we may clean, tidy up, and prepare for our next client.

• Limit the studio to 3 sessions a day, only if the three must happen on one specific day. It’s best to spread out appointments.

• Feel free to bring a rapid covid test should you ask us to take one before your session.

• Newborns are kept in a separate space from other session types

• Consultations are in person for booked clients only. Zoom or phone consultations are available for parents who have not yet booked, though they have many questions. This practice keeps studio traffic to a minimum.

• Only booked clients may use or try on the studio wardrobe. Our website has several photos of what to expect for wardrobe and session styling.

Daily Commercial Grade Cleaning Service

Our studio and office are in a commercial space at 4550 Post Oak Place Drive. Part of our lease includes a regular commercial-grade cleaning service that visits each evening. We also have a service visit between sessions, such as cake smashes, family photoshoots, and newborn appointments. Our daily cleaning service includes vacuuming, mopping, sweeping, emptying trash, wiping all surfaces, dusting, and cleaning our doorknobs, handles, changing tables, and furniture. The professional cleaning service will even visit between our sessions if requested.

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2021 COVID-19 Update for Sarah Borchgrevink Photography’sHouston Newborn Portrait Studio

UPDATE: As of April 19th, 2021, we are vaccinated against COVID-19.

We are keeping our studio and office workplace safe.

Today's blog post discusses tips and tricks for creating a safe, healthy, and responsible work environment when photographing young infants, expecting mothers, and grandparents. At Sarah Borchgrevink Photography, we're a husband-and-wife team! We work cohesively to create a luxury experience for parents in the Houston area. Part of the experience is ensuring safety at all times. It is best to act cautiously, perceive risks, and maintain a scheduled set of habits, resulting in a safe workplace for all visitors. We are committed to work arrangements and schedules designed to protect everyone.

As we pass the first anniversary of social distancing, quarantine, and all the terms such as "CDC “guidelines," we “are very grateful for the parents who entrust us to document milestones in your life.

We uphold The following standards and expectations throughout the year, no matter the season. We share these to create transparency and educate our clients on the lengths we go to exceed safety and sanitary expectations.

• Please note that as of March 2020, masks and gloves are required for all photoshoots. Moreover, on March 10th, 2021, our Governor (Greg Abbott) removed the mandatory mask. However, our studio requires masks. We will not be removing our masks or gloves. Based on our age and health status, we plan to be vaccinated as soon as the vaccine is available to us.

Sarah Borchgrevink Photography COVID-19 Update

REQUIREMENTS FOR ENTERING THE BUILDING

• The Building bars from entry any individual with COVID-19 symptoms or who has been exposed to someone with the virus.

• Individuals are required to practice social distancing wherever feasible. This includes the building lobby, elevators, corridors, deli, and restrooms.

• Face masks are required when entering the building and in all common areas (building lobby, elevators, corridors, deli, and restrooms). Face masks are not a substitute for proper social distancing.

Daily Commercial Grade Cleaning Service

Our studio and office are located within a commercial office space at 4550 Post Oak Place Drive. Part of our lease includes a regular commercial-grade cleaning service that visits each evening. We also have a service visit between sessions such as cake smashes, family photoshoots, and newborn appointments. Our daily cleaning service includes vacuuming, mopping, sweeping, emptying trash, wiping all surfaces, dusting, and cleaning our doorknobs, handles, changing tables, and even the furniture.  The professional cleaning service will even visit between our sessions if requested.

With COVID-19, however, the cleaning crew is implementing CDC guidelines.

Razor Antimicrobial Cleaning | CDC GUIDELINES 2020

 

The building includes RAZOR Micro-Biostatic Surface Protection in all areas such as doors, handles, elevators, restrooms, common areas, light switches, keyboards, desks, changing tables, and more. The RAZOR chemical adheres to the surface and provides a protective shield against germs. The RAZOR technology is a fog-applied antimicrobial coating for porous and non-porous surfaces.

RAZORTM IS A PATENTED, EPA REGISTERED, INNOVATIVE NEW PRODUCT. • THE RAZORTM TECHNOLOGY IS A FOG-APPLIED ANTIMICROBIAL COATING FOR POROUS AND NON- POROUS SURFACES. • RAZORTM ANTIMICROBIAL COATING GIVES SUBSTRATES AN ADDED LEVEL OF PROTECTION AGAINST DAMAGING MICROBES SUCH AS BACTERIA, MOLD, AND MILDEW.

Separate Newborn Photoshoot Room

Our studio is 1,300 square feet. Part of a spacious studio keeps our newborn clients separate from the other parts of our studio, such as the lifestyle maternity, family, or baby milestone rooms. Our newborn room is for new arrivals only and is only used for brand new babies.

Sanitizing Props and Wardrobe

Every single prop is sanitized between use. This means that any item that is touched or worn during a photoshoot is cleaned appropriately. Our motherhood gowns, for example, visit the dry cleaners after each use. Our newborn wraps, backdrops, and other textiles are washed in Dreft between sessions, too. We never use the same prop two times in one day. All buckets, bowls, baskets, and other floor props are wiped down between soap and water. Our more delicate pieces, such as bonnets, are hand-washed along with flokati rugs.

Photoshoots are by Appointment Only

To protect our clients and keep traffic to a minimum, we photograph sessions by appointment only. This safeguard allows us to have fewer visitors and ensures that each prop has time to be cleaned before use. We set up a day in advance; after the session, the accessories are immediately prepared for cleaning. Appointment only is a great way to reduce germs by not accepting too many people at one time. This also allows our cleaning service to be used as needed without any surprises.

Fully Vaccinated and Insured

Aside from being the mommy to four young children, I have taken multiple newborn safety workshops in addition to professional mentoring. These courses train photographers on how to safely and beautifully pose precious babies. Workshop topics also cover editing, lighting, soothing, flow, strategies, and creative methods to provide breathtaking setups and styling. A reputable baby photographer has invested thousands of hours into honing their craft.  Moreover, to provide a further network of newborn safety, the studio is fully vaccinated and runs an entirely legal, tax-paying insured business.

Breaks Between Appointments

Our online scheduling calendar is set where a break is scheduled between sessions to reduce traffic in the studio. A break allows Kevin and me to tidy up and sanitize anything needed. The cleaning service also visits during this time, too.

Ask to see sample products for professional prints and heirloom pieces.

As of 2020, all of our heirloom albums, prints, and other professional product samples are kept on a separate shelf and are wiped down between use. While you’re always welcome to browse the beautiful options available for purchase, the heirloom and archival products are stored on a shelf to prevent the spreading of germs.

No Shoes or Strollers in the Shooting Rooms

Studio policy states that shoes and strollers are allowed in the lobby only and not in the areas in which young infants are photographed. We ask you; please remove your shoes upon arriving. Feel free to wear a comfy pair of socks. Strollers are left in the mothers’ room or our studio playroom and lobby.

Handwashing and Disinfectant

Studio policy requests parents to wash their hands upon arriving. Kevin and I do so, too. We also have hand sanitizer in each room of our studio and welcome you to use it as much as you would like.

Masks and gloves are now required as of May 2020.

Sick Child Rescheduling Policy

Studio policy states we reschedule your session, without penalty, to another available date if you or a member of your family is ill. We are very flexible and understand illnesses happen last minute. We appreciate your time, though we also respect your well-being and look forward to seeing you on a day when everyone feels their best. It's best that little ones who feel unwell stay home. We can always add your session to a later date, and it's best to act with caution and perceive risk than risk the health of other infants, parents, or loved ones.

As always, we welcome any questions or concerns! We hope to see you soon and have a wonderful session!

Warmly,

Sarah and Kevin

Curated Client Closet Featuring Timeless, Feminine and Stunning Motherhood Wardrobe

Sarah’s Favorite Gowns From the Studio Client Closet

• Welcome, friends! Today's blog post is one you don't want to miss! As a professional newborn, baby, maternity, and family photographer, the wardrobe is an essential part of the creative process. We've taken the guesswork out of the equation, so you have a wonderful experience.

• Moreover, because I am a mother to four young children myself, our goal is to provide a lovely experience from start to finish.

• Please keep reading to see more exciting details about our favorite gowns, styles, branding, and what to expect when booking your session with us.

• Our favorite gowns are showcased below

• Any gown you see on our website is available to you.

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Newborn/Family/Maternity Outfit Inspiration & Ideas

Now that you've booked your maternity, newborn, or family photoshoot, you may be asking, "What should I wear?" Clothing ideas can seem daunting as new parents have many things to plan for, such as their baby shower, nursery, perhaps car-shopping, touring hospitals, interviewing nannies, and more! Have no fear: our client closet is here.

We have 7 rules when shopping for our studio wardrobe. Here’s how we decide what parents should wear for a professional photoshoot at Sarah Borchgrevink Photography:

1. Textures and soft fabrics

2. Timeless and classic

3. Belts and wrap dresses offering flexible sizing

4. Fitted options for mothers seeking more intimate or sexy cuts

5. Solid colors without distracting labels

6. Soft, dainty, feminine prints

7. Variety to fit many different silhouettes, body types, skin tones, and session types.

Ethereal, light, flowy, airy, and timeless pieces accent your session beautifully

When shopping for our client closet, we offer the following options:

• Motherhood

• Big Sister (2t - 8t)

• Baby Milestone (3 months - 18 months)

• A small Father section

Our client wardrobe is included for all sessions, no matter the type. We are excited to help style your images, so they reflect our timeless, light, bright, and airy studio branding. While you’re always welcome to use clothing from home, we love to assist, so you have a curated closet from which to select.

Expect to see various tones, textures, and fabrics, all of which are curated to photograph beautifully. We offer diverse options such as, but not limited to, neutrals, grey, ivory, creams, whites, and muted colors and nudes, although there are colorful options. Jewel tones and classic black make an appearance, too.

What size of gowns are offered?

Gowns are available in sizes extra small - extra large. However, keep in mind that if you adore a dress, we can usually pin or clamp the gown to fit many different silhouettes. For instance, when shopping for clients, we select curated vendors, both local and national, who offer high-quality items that photograph very well. Because the dresses are designed for photoshoots and not daily wear, the sizing is very flexible.

Stylish, comfortable, and perfectly classic

All dresses we purchase for client use are simple, elegant, and complement many different silhouettes. We also carefully select soft, often stretchy fabrics and designed to be comfortable yet also compliment maternity, newborn, family, or motherhood photoshoots. Lightweight materials also ensure you may easily move during your photoshoot as we pose and direct you.

Complimentary gown fittings are welcome

The studio booking calendar offers complimentary gown fittings. We set aside 1/2 hour so you may browse dresses in advance. Moreover, if you see a dress you like on our Instagram or Facebook feed, we're happy to set it aside for you!

See more of our client closet here:

Other Helpful Links You May Enjoy:

• 12 Reasons to Choose Sarah & Kevin as Your Houston Newborn/Family Photographers

• COVID-19 Update + CDC Guidelines in Place

• What Happens During a Newborn Baby Photoshoot with Sarah and Kevin

• Portrait Memberships to the Studio

Schedule Your Own Studio Tour and Gown Fitting Today

Get in touch & connect

What Happens During a Newborn Family Session? Steps to Expect with Sarah Borchgrevink

Steps to Expect During Your Posed Newborn Photoshoot with Sarah

Congratulations on your newest addition! I have been photographing newborn babies full-time since 2013 and genuinely adore capturing earthside cherubs in their brand new nature. Besides having 4 (spirited!) little ones myself, I have invested in mentoring and workshops and have formally trained in posing, handling, lighting, post-processing, and more. I utilize top-of-the-line professional gear, a custom-built PC, and both natural and studio light. My husband, Kevin, and I work together and enjoy being a team. Please note we are fully vaccinated and insured as a safeguard to promote newborn safety. All props and textiles are sanitized between uses. Daily cleaning service also visits.

If you haven’t added your due date to our calendar, feel free to do so here: Due Date Placeholder Scheduling Link.

Importance of Transparency

The prep guide is essential because this is the key to having quality images. Keeping Baby asleep during several setups, poses, and wraps are much different than putting Baby to sleep at home in a crib or a swing. Your baby is handled with love, care, respect. I acknowledge this is a great deal of information, and you're right: it is! However, this removes stress during the session process, so you’re up to date on everything that will happen.

Studio Address and Office Details

 

and is fully stocked with luxury items reflecting the vintage-inspired, dreamy, and timeless branding. The type of setups and designs you may expect is the style displayed in my portfolio. (www.sarahborchgrevinkphotography.com) Your styling questionnaire has you share colors you like and perhaps would like to avoid. I request no props from home except for a few heirloom pieces, if this is of importance to you. If there is a specific setup from my website you would like, please let me know in advance so I may prepare. We will cycle through all of our setups. If Baby shows signs of distress, I will move on from that portion, though we can return if there is time after we have completed other setups. Please remember your gallery will be lovely, and that is important to respect Baby. If Baby is crying and uncomfortable, I will never force Baby into a position, no matter how much a parent begs me to do so. I cannot ethically do this and request you not pressure me to do so. It makes me extremely uncomfortable and can hinder the atmosphere of the session.

What to wear? Family, Sibling, and Parent Images

I have a client wardrobe mothers may use for their session. It includes gowns that photograph well in the space, typically in small-large sizes. They are flowy and timeless. You are welcome to use one for our session though if you have an outfit from home, you prefer that's fine, too! If you would like to use the client wardrobe, please wear a nude bra and bring an underslip to prevent undergarments from showing.

There is also a sister wardrobe, too, in sizes three months – 5t.  For siblings and Dad: please stick to neutrals, if possible, or muted pastels. Avoid neon colors. Orange, yellow, bright greens or pinks are not favorable. Colors that photograph well are light grey, tans, creams, white, and ivory.

Seafoam, mauve, and colors of this sort are lovely, too! The baby will be wrapped for their session in a coordinating color.

Dads look lovely in a pair of jeans or khaki pants, simple button-up, or even a polo shirt without distracting labels. Moms can do a long maxi dress if they would like or cardigan, tank top, whichever you're comfortable.  Children look precious in jeans or khaki pants with a solid or neutral colored top. Little girls look darling in a simple cotton dress without any cartoon characters or distracting labels.

Hair and Makeup: Professional Airbrushing and Artistry

If you’re interested in adding professional hair and makeup to your photoshoot, the preferred vendor we use is Annie Williams. If you prefer your hair and makeup be done at the studio, we’ll photograph Baby while your hair and makeup are completed. Read all about how to add hair and makeup to your package.

If doing your own hair and makeup, please stick to a matte color palate. Avoid dark eyeliner, neon highlighters or shadows, and harsh lines. Think classic, soft, feminine, and chic. Nudes and peachy tones are stunning. I also recommend filling in your brows and using a primer so that the skin pores look soft. A translucent powder is excellent for smoothing out complexions, too. Even a store such as Ulta or Sephora is a great place to stop by for a quick touchup. These are just tips and tricks I recommend as I have four young kiddos and have had many photoshoots myself.

Before You Arrive at the Studio

• Feed Baby very well before you leave for the studio. Your session time allots time for feeding, diaper changes, soothing, and more, so have no fear: we’ll have a great session!

• Please dress baby in a loose-fitting outfit to avoid too many lines on their skin. A zip-up sleeper or footed pajamas are a great idea. Avoid pulling anything over the head so as not to disturb your baby too much.

• If you're comfortable doing so, please bring a pacifier. If you're not using one, I completely understand and respect your parenting wishes. A pacifier is a great soothing tool, especially for prop shots like Baby in a bucket or the naked beanbag posing.

When You Arrive

• I promise I am excited to meet you! We’ll go right into our session. Family photos take place in my all-white, lifestyle room and your Baby’s individual setups take place in the newborn room. Family photos take place first, followed by Baby as the star! If, however, you are interested in using my motherhood wardrobe, you’re welcome to try on gowns and see what you like. In this case, we’ll start with Baby’s individual photos first and then go into the family, parent, and sibling portion.

• The newborn room is set to 84 degrees, white noise is turned on, and all setups are prepared in advance. This cozy environment emulates the womb and helps Baby sleep through many designs, poses, and being moved.

• Remember: at home, your baby is covered and often clothed, but in a studio environment, they're naked or have less clothing. For family photos, I will wrap Baby in a coordinating color and make sure they’re a snuggly bundle of joy. I’ll give plenty of direction and ensure you feel safe and comfortable.

Family/Sibling/Parent Images | Setups You May Expect

If you’ve selected a package with family, sibling, and parent images, you may expect us to spend 20 - 25 minutes on this portion. We cover setups such as each parent with Baby, parents together, immediate family, and sibling (if applicable) with Baby. If you would like the majority of your appointment to be family-based, let me know in advance so that I may plan our session setups accordingly. We can do less with Baby and more with family.

During Your Session Appointment

• Feel free to sit back and relax. You’re welcome to hang out in the newborn room or the lobby, too. I won't need any assistance, so if you'd like to rest, think of me as your babysitter. You're welcome to bring a tablet or laptop to work, or maybe even your Kindle to read (a luxury, I know, ha!).

• I am very comfortable working with newborns. Don't worry if Baby goes potty or spits up on anything. After you leave, everything is cleaned, as this is simply part of newborn photography.  Always feel like you can ask a question. Once your session time is up, you are welcome to stay and feed Baby in the mothers' room.

After the Session: What’s Next?

All of the following information is automatically sent you to 24 hours after our session occurs; however, I include it at the end of our prep guide, too. Feel free to read all about soft-proofing and how we share, receive, and download full-resolution JPEG files.

• Parents select the full-resolution, non-watermarked JPEG digital files via a private online proofing gallery. The proofing gallery is delivered to your preferred e-mail address, and you choose images from the comfort of home.

• All portrait packages include props, time and talent of Sarah/Kevin, the number of full-resolution JPEG digital files, listed in your package, plus matching black and white edits of those selections, unlimited released printing rights, as well as a list of curated labs, so you’re sure to have excellent options for display. If you're interested in professional prints/products, however, you're welcome to shop in your online gallery to see an array of professional-grade options.

• Your online proofing gallery is delivered 14 days after your appointment.

• Your gallery showcases the top images. Galleries are soft-proofed, which means a light edit is applied to your selections, though your final copies will be professionally enhanced; this is when the skin smoothing, eye sharpening, etc. is done. Once you select your final images, the retouching will be completed in three business days, M-F.

• Upon logging into your gallery, instructions are given on how to choose the images in your session. At that time, if you’re interested in additional digital files, your gallery will share how to upgrade though there is no obligation to do so.

How Many Images You Will See in Your Private Proofing Gallery?

• Wrapped Newborn| 40 images

• Bean Bag Newborn | 30 images

• Petite Newborn Session | 50 images

• Full Newborn Session | 65 – 70 images

Digital Files Available for Instant Download

The final image selections are shared through an online gallery in which you may instantly download your non-watermarked, full-resolution digital images JPEG images. You are responsible for downloading these images within 30 days and archiving them into the cloud.

I will include a few consumer-grade labs, so you have an idea of where to purchase albums,

prints, canvases, etc. If you are interested in professional-grade prints & products, however, let me know! The gallery has a store attached so you may shop and select the highest quality products. Products are shipped to your home, and there are no in-person ordering appointments or need to pick up products from the studio. Thank you for choosing me to photograph your baby's session! If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to notify me immediately. I want you to have a fantastic portraiture experience. I know this feels like a lot of information, and I do not want to overwhelm you; however, newborn photography takes planning. They're once in a lifetime, and you will treasure them forever! I look forward to our time together!

Warmly,

Sarah & Kevin