NEWBORN SESSIONS
The newborn stage is fleeting. Within a few short weeks, your baby will have changed so much. Preserve those early memories with a gorgeous professional newborn session.
When should I book?
You may contact me as soon as you have an expected due date. We can discuss any questions you may have and I will make a tentative booking for you. I only book four newborn sessions per month, so it’s best to contact me as soon as possible to reserve your space. Once you arrive home from the hospital you can contact me to arrange a suitable day and time for your session.
It is ideal to photograph babies within the first two weeks of birth while they are still very sleepy and flexible. After two weeks babies can become more challenging to settle and things like colic, baby acne, and cradle cap can start to flare up.
However, if your circumstances don’t allow you to have your baby photographed within the first two weeks, don’t worry. I often work with babies outside the ideal newborn window. With a little more diligence we can still achieve gorgeous, meaningful images with a newborn feel to them.
Where are sessions held?
Newborn sessions with Candace Mata Photography are done right in the comfort of your own home. This allows you to have professional portraits of your new baby without having to travel to a public studio.
Newborns can either be photographed against backdrops, blankets, or furs for a studio look. You may also request that I photograph your baby using elements in your own home. The master bedroom or the baby's nursery is also a great choice if you'd like images with a lifestyle feel to them. Check out my portfolio for examples of what is achievable during your in-home session.
Session fees include travel to locations within Merced & Stanislaus County. Locations outside of the area will incur a travel fee.
How long will a newborn session last?
Plenty of time will be allowed for feeding and cuddling, so plan for the session to last between 2 - 4 hours. Set-up and tear down takes about 20 minutes before and after your session.
Who may be included?
Parents, Grandparents, siblings, or other family members are welcome to be photographed along with the baby. Your baby will never be so tiny again, so capturing them in parents' or grandparents' arms will make for meaningful and timeless images.
What will you need for your session?
I will need a small space to set up in your home. A 10’/10’ will work well. I bring along my own lighting, so don‘t worry if the space is dark. I will also bring along a small heater to keep the baby comfortable during posing.
Parents are encouraged to be involved in the styling of the session if they’d like to be. A wide variety of props, furs, wraps, headbands, hats & backdrops are available for your use during the session. You will not need to provide any props, outfits, or wraps for your newborn session, however, if you have a special item you’d like to include I’d be happy to incorporate it.
Feel free to browse my newborn portfolio on my website to see what options are available for you. If you decide to book, a questionnaire will be emailed to you so I can gauge your style. We can then collaborate to create a beautiful theme that reflects you and your family well.
What sanitizing protocols are in use?
Your baby’s health is of utmost importance to me.
Props, blankets, furs & towels that will come into contact with your baby are washed with a laundry sanitizer & hypoallergenic baby detergent before your session. Unwashable items are steam sanitized, UV sanitized or wiped with sanitizing wipes. I also bring along hand sanitizer and use it frequently during sessions.
I do not photograph newborns while I’m ill and I ask that clients reschedule if they are feeling unwell.
I am vaccinated and boosted with the COVID-19 vaccine. I receive annual flu vaccinations and am fully vaccinated with the D-tap vaccine.
What is the pricing for newborn sessions?
Newborn sessions fees start at $550 for a 2-4 hour stylized session. About 2 weeks after your session you will able to access a private online proofing gallery with 25-30 images for you to order from. The final image amount you will receive will depend on the package you choose.
For more detailed pricing please send me an email through the contact link above.
I look forward to hearing from you soon.