Last Week in Studio: Little Sitters, Siblings, Parents, and New Arrivals

Offering adorable baby milestone sessions as well as posed newborn photography featuring sibling, parent, and family setups, Sarah shares highlights from last week's sessions! 

Howdy, friends! Today's blog post is a fun one because you get to see last week's sessions + what makes them special. Welcome! Let's get started!

Big Brother Link | Newborn Photography with Sibling

This sweet big brother, named Link, could not have been sweeter during his sibling portion of little sister's newborn session. Link is not even two years old, yet, either, so this is a great posing idea for sibling. These images are included in the "full' newborn collection, but are also available as an add on in every other collection I offer, such as the wrapped mini, bean bag mini, and petite sessions. My favorite part of this setup is how clean and classic all the colors are; I adore timeless and vintage inspired sessions, so the lace headband, ivory wrap, cream flokati rug, and simple white shirt and dark wash jeans are the perfect outfit for a sibling and newborn baby girl setup. Link was especially special to me because he was so tender and soft with his baby sister.

Mia at nearly 3 weeks new

Mia is a brand new arrival who visited my Houston Newborn Baby Portrait Studio at just under 3 weeks old. Her session is special because she's the first baby who's mama booked my brand new session offering, called the newborn wrapped mini! Featuring gorgeous textiles, antique and rustic floor props, and full styling such as bonnets and dainty tiebacks, this is a great option for babies who are 30 days or newer. This is designed for parents seeking just a few stunning and unique images of their new cherub. These sessions are also special because they're under an hour long so you're in and out of the studio really quickly! 

Grady's Little Sitter Session at 7 Months Old

Handsome Grady absolutely stole my heart! From the moment his mama brought him into the studio, he was all smiles. His captivating blue eyes and strawberry blond hair had me wanting to snuggle him the entire time! We did several setups, 5-6, and really showcased adorable outfits that are available to all of my clients. Full styling and accessories are provided for all little sitter sessions, including baby milestone photography. You may be interested in reading about 14 New Outfits in My Client Closet + everything you need to know about sitter milestone baby sessions. These sessions set themselves apart because there are (3) pricing tiers you may select from; this caters to different budgets and also offers affordable Houston Baby Photography to new parents. There's a mini, standard, or deluxe package.

First time parents Rachel & Brian | Family + Newborn Photography

Rachel and Brian were such a treat to photograph in studio! They visited when their little girl was just under a week old. I was completely impressed with them, too! Mom is a pediatrician and just finished her residency, right when having a new baby! They even were in the middle of closing on their house and moving just a few short days later. Talk about super parents, huh? For their parent portion, Mom wore a stunning blush top that looks lovely against the white light; Dad wore a classic blue button up. Adorned with an ivory wrap and soft, muted pink headband, their little lass is the perfect bundle of joy. Mom and Dad booked the 'petite' option on my pricing guide. This is the perfect collection for first time parents who would like lovely images such as mom with baby, dad with baby, and parents together with baby.

Aria at 7 Days Fresh | New Earth side Arrival

It's no secret that Houston Newborn Photography is my specialty and where I thrive! Nothing gives me as much joy as working with babies who are less than a month old; preserving this time for parents is incredibly rewarding and I cannot believe I call this my full-time job! Parent of being one of the best Houston Newborn Photographers (2016-2018) is offering beautiful setups that are not only unique and timeless but also showcase baby in the most precious of ways! Baby in a bucket is part of every session I do. Aria weighs just over 7 pounds and has a head full of gorgeous dark brown hair. Her tiny fingers, button nose, and sweet lips truly are stunning. You may be interested in also reading 7 Tricks to Rock Baby in a Bucket Pose, which also focuses on newborn safety and training.

Heidi | 8 Days old at 6 pounds

Beautiful Heidi visited at 8 days old and her session featured tons of naked bean bag posing, which was Mom's preference. The main color in her session was aquamarine with teal accents. Her session is special because all of my newborn props are hand-crafted by incredible vendors all over the world! This headband, for instance, is from the UK and is from a great gal called Created by Carli. Her items are impeccable; while they are an investment, they set newborn sessions apart through creativity, unique looks, and also they're dainty and petite. My preference is for all the styling to fit my brand which is rustic, classic, dreamy, timeless. 

Lily Rose | 8 pounds & 7 days old

Lily Rose is a completely gorgeous baby girl! At over 8 pounds, technically nearly 9, she was so squishy and chubby! Her cheeks and beautiful features are perfection! I adore this setup of her, which features cream, ivory, lace, and a wooden rustic bowl because we're able to see her face, hands, toes, and she looks completely at peace. When working with new arrivals, such as precious newborn babies, the sessions are very laid back and serene. Your baby should never be in distress or crying. I have years of experience and pride myself on finishing my sessions in 2 hours or less. 

Baby girl M | Lovely Lilac & Lavender 

Baby girl M came for her newborn session at just over a week old. Weighing 6 pounds and having a breathtaking head full of hair, this little lady was the perfect newborn session! She slept beautifully for me and rocked each and every one of her poses. Her color scheme showcases many purple tones such as lavender and lilac. Soft, muted, classic. The quintessential colors for a dainty little lady! Her session was also a favorite of mine because her parents are long time clients! I've been working with them for years, so it was really fun to catch up with them during their fall family session, Mom's outdoor, natural light maternity session, and then see them again for the posed newborn appointment. 

Michelle & Jeff | Baby Plan Membership Clients

Michelle and Jeff were great to have in studio! On top of being wonderful and sweet, they're also baby plan membership clients with a maternity session add-on. This means they secured an outdoor, natural light pregnancy portraiture session, posed in-studio newborn photos, and I'll also see them for their little girl's 7 month sitter session and even a 12 month cake smash & splash! You may enjoy seeing their maternity session featuring two adorable fur siblings!

Are you currently looking for a portrait photographer who specializes in stunning belly to first year sessions? Let's chat! I am always happy to answer any questions you may have. 

Sarah Borchgrevink Photography is a Houston Newborn Photographer specializing in gorgeous posed newborn sessions. Her studio is located in Northwest Harris County. In addition to breathtaking baby portraiture, Sarah also offers stylish natural light family photography as well as dynamic outdoor maternity sessions for expecting mothers and couples. Sarah joyfully serves the entire Harris and Montgomery county areas including Houston, Cypress, Tomball, Spring, The Woodlands, Kingwood, Memorial & West Houston, Katy, Sugar Land, Pearland, Richmond, West University and Rice Village.

Here's where Sarah's Houston Photo Studio is Located:

 

Baby Bump of the Month: On Location, Natural Light Pregnancy Photos

Each month, Sarah previews the cutest baby bump and more information about natural light, on location pregnancy portraiture for expecting mothers to be and couples. Check out the top December session featuring spectacular evening light.

 Dynamic Maternity Images in Houston by Sarah Borchgrevink

Good morning, friends! Today's blog post is all about gorgeous maternity photography and the sweet mama who rocked her on location pregnancy session featuring golden light, a stunning atmosphere and who truly was a joy to document!

If this is your first time here, welcome! I'm Sarah! I specialize in newborn photography, however, each month I take a handful of maternity sessions. These are available to both new and returning clients, however, clients who have also booked a custom newborn baby session have priority on the calendar.

My on location, natural light maternity sessions take place at golden hour, meaning right as the sun is rising or just as the sun is setting. This creates the best Houston maternity portraits that are timeless, stunning, ethereal, and will forever preserve this incredibly special time in your life. Awaiting the arrival of your little one is absolutely a joy - I know you can't wait to meet him or her! 

For this session, we chose a location in Houston, which is where my studio is based, so I typically work in areas that are close to my workplace. This location is a favorite among clients and has the best light of all the options. It is available M-F for sunset only, since the sun rises in the east and sets in the west. 

This sweet mommy to be booked both a maternity session and in studio newborn session. Her newborn session is truly fantastic, so I'm looking forward to previewing some of those images, too! :-) Typically, maternity sessions take place when your baby bump is around 34-36 weeks along. Most mothers book 6 weeks in advance. The calendar does fill in advance so if you're interested in a maternity session, I recommend contacting me sooner rather than later. 

Here are some of my favorite images from our time together! Enjoy!

As always, thanks for visiting to see one of the latest projects I'm working on. :-) I always appreciate you taking the time to stop by! If you are perhaps expecting your own little bundle of joy, I would love if you could consider me for your own pregnancy portraits or newborn photos. Wishing you a wonderful week, friends!

If you enjoyed this post about natural light, dynamic pregnancy portraits you may also like reading about:

• Top 9 questions to ask when hiring a newborn photographer
• Where to find the perfect dress for winter photos
• Favorite ways to pose Mom and Newborn Baby

Sarah Borchgrevink Photography is a Houston Newborn Photographer specializing in gorgeous posed newborn sessions. Her studio is located in Northwest Harris County. In addition to breathtaking baby portraiture, Sarah also offers stylish natural light family photography as well as dynamic outdoor maternity sessions for expecting mothers and couples. Sarah joyfully serves the entire Harris and Montgomery county areas including Houston, Cypress, Tomball, Spring, The Woodlands, Kingwood, Memorial & West Houston, Katy, Sugar Land, Pearland, Richmond, West University and Rice Village.

 

Maternity Photography Tips for Naturally Posing Expecting Couples

Located in Houston, Sarah Borchgrevink Photography joyfully offers beautiful maternity sessions for expecting couples and mothers to be. Through connected posing and lifestyle portraiture, Sarah authentically preserves your pregnancy.

Tips for Posing Expecting Couples during a Maternity Session

Booking a maternity session is often very exciting! It's a time to document your motherhood journey and to preserve this time in your life as you eagerly await the arrival of your sweet cherub baby. Part of booking a natural light and on location maternity photographer is checking out many portfolios, reading their photography philosophies and selecting someone who is the perfect fit for the final look you envision. If you're looking for sweet, timeless, simple and naturally posed images, I'm the gal for you! 

This sweet couple originally contacted me when they were in their second trimester. They booked both a natural light, maternity session and a posed newborn collection with me. This is very common since many parents like to work with the same person for both sessions.

Posing Couples in a natural way

When photographing an expecting couple, the final look should be connected, natural, and not at all stilted or awkward. When I first began photographing couples during pregnancy portraiture sessions, I sometimes felt a little stuck and unsure of how to keep the session flowing smoothly. For example, it's often the first time you've met the couple. In this case, for instance, I did meet Mom in advance since she came for a studio tour, however, it was my first time interacting with Dad. This couple is about as kind and gracious as they come, so it is my job to make sure they look happy, in love, and comfortable together. Posing couples, however, can be challenging because they must be at ease. When they're in a public setting and outside of their normal routine, the posing can make them feel a little bit nervous since it's not the normal routine for them. After all, I photograph many clients per month, but this is a new experience for them.

Have Patience with the client

Once you greet your client and get them settled, be patient. Ask them about their day and make sure they like the location you're working at that day. Give them the opportunity to ask any questions they may have before you begin. Always have Dad take everything out of his pocket, too, such as car keys or his wallet. If he's wearing a fit bit, go ahead and have him remove that unless he'd like it in his final images. You'll be the one doing most of the running, especially if you shoot with prime lenses, ha! Give your client a little bit of time to warm up. By being friendly and courteous to them, it helps them relax. By answering any questions, it removes the "unknown" and let's them feel more comfortable. You want your client to love the images!

Give clear direction and communicate clearly

Now that you've started the session, give clear direction to your clients. Don't say, "Um...yeah, scoot over a little bit, um..stop, no, go left, no go right, no I mean forward, etc." When you fumble and act unsure of what you're doing, it creates uncertainty during the session. Instead, take charge. Be friendly yet assertive. Tell the parents, in a clear voice, exactly what you'd like them to do. Guide them through positive instructions. For instance, you might say, "Alright, guys! Now let's smile at one another. Dad, gently touch the top of Mom's stomach. Let's make sure you're on the same focal plane. Alright, now let's have mom bend her front leg." Effectively communicating with your client will help you naturally pose them because they understand what you're asking of them. If you cannot clearly communicate, everything will be lost in translation and you can expect your client to just pose themselves. That's why they've hired you. 

Have them Kiss or interact together

Sometimes friends will tell me they're unsure of how to get Mom and Dad to kiss. It's simple. Just ask them to, ha! This couple is young, in love, and super excited to meet their baby girl. They often adore one another and are looking forward to the session. This is the time in their marriage or relationship when it's just the two of them and it's a great oppurtunity to capture romantic, intimate, and sweet shots of them because they'll look back on these images and see how their love shines through. 

Keep them moving

Another simple way to naturally pose your clients is through movement. By moving, it gives them a natural action they're familiar with, such as walking. You can ask them to walk, smile at one another, and look back into their partner's eyes. 

Cozy up and cuddle

At some point, it adds variety to the final gallery to have the clients sitting together, all cozy and cuddled together. I usually bring a quilt of some sort and take the time to do individual images of Mom, but also of both parents together. If you have Mom lean back into Dad, he can support her, while touching the baby bump, and they can interact together. Don't focus too much on them looking at the camera. It's nice to have images that are a little more lifestyle in nature, which will add laid back posing to your collections.

Thanks for stopping by my blog to read about simple, effective, and natural ways to pose couples during an outdoor maternity session. I hope you visit again! If you'd like to keep looking around, I'm sure you'll find other topics to enjoy! If you liked reading about posing couples, you may like the following posts or find them informative:

• How to add pets to a family photography session
• Creating Meaningful images in your maternity portraiture
• Posing Families with Older Kiddos or Teens
• Tips for a maternity session on a dark, cloudy or overcast day

Sarah Borchgrevink Photography is a Houston Newborn Photographer specializing in gorgeous posed newborn sessions. Her studio is located in Northwest Houston. In addition to breathtaking baby portraiture, Sarah also offers stylish natural light family photography as well as dynamic outdoor maternity sessions for expecting mothers and couples. Sarah joyfully serves the entire Harris and Montgomery county areas including North Houston, Cypress, Tomball, Spring, Jersey Village, The Woodlands, Magnolia, Conroe, Willis, Montgomery, Humble, Kingwood, Porter, New Caney, Waller, Memorial & West Houston, Katy, Fulshear, Sugar Land, Pearland, Hempstead, Richmond, West University, Rice Village and Porter TX. Connect to chat with Sarah today! Please consider booking your session at your earliest convenience in order to secure your appointments on the calendar.