Newborn Photography Experience

Charlotte Newborn Photographer-KatieRie Photography (2)

Newborn Photography|| KatieRie Photography

I recently went on a girls’ trip to Charleston, SC with some of my Wisconsin friends.  Ten girls trying to figure out where to eat can be…um…interesting, BUT one of the girls had read a post on Instagram about a top-rated restaurant that we just HAD to try. We read some of the comments and were sold.  “Let’s try it!  Everyone is RAVING about this place.” Halls Chophouse  was nothing short of AMAZING. Why? Because of the experience. It wasn’t just a sit-down-and-order place.  It also wasn’t just the outstanding food. But the experience. We were greeted with smiles right away at the entrance, even if we looked tired and sweaty from walking around sweltering Charleston all day long.  They had a table ready for us on the second floor and once we were seated, the show began.  Our waiter was witty and charming and he had a small staff helping him.  He took our drink orders and they were delivered in a just a few short minutes.  He went through the menu with skill and knowledge and also stated that they could make ANYTHING–so if there was something we were craving, the kitchen could make it happen.  The whole dang experience from start to finish was utterly amazing.  And although this isn’t a restaurant review (a newborn photography post, actually), you will see how the two connect in a few moments.

Best Newborn Photographer--Charlotte, NCBest Newborn Photos--KatieRie Photography

 

 

MORE than just a Photo Shoot–It’s An EXPERIENCE

From the very start, I like to get to know my clients.  I love talking to them and getting a feel for what they are looking for out of their photo shoot.  I customize each session to meet the needs of each family.  Every person is different in what they want out of their shoots, and it’s my job to help guide them in the right direction. Want more than just digital files? Awesome! I offer some AMAZINGLY unique products that you just can’t find anywhere.  Did you see a certain pose from my social media that you fell in love with?  Sweet! I will incorporate that into your session flow! I will help your vision come to life.

 

Best Newborn Photography--KatieRie Photography

The BEST time to reach out to your newborn photographer (ahem..me:) is when you find out you are expecting. At that time I pencil in your due date. Even better is scheduling your maternity session around 28-34 weeks.  Then you really get a feel for how sessions run.  After that, once your baby is born, you contact me directly from the hospital to set up your exact session date.  That’s right! I’m right up there with your family and extended family–we all find out at the same time. I will send a questionnaire and the Studio Guide to help you and I prepare for your session. We talk about colors, props, preferences, etc.  completely tailored to YOU.

Best Newborn Photography--Charlotte, NC KatieRie Photography

All you need to bring is yourselves and your baby (and whomever will be photographed).  The studio is well equipped with EVERYTHING. Props, layers, backdrops, hats, headbands–you name it, I got it! I take all that stress off of you. And then…the BEST PART. You get to sit back, relax, and watch.  The room is super warm, the shusher is going, heck…some parents even fall asleep! We talk about the delivery and little tips that have helped throughout my journey as a mom.  We just kinda hang out! Oh! And I capture the amazing beauty of your newest addition.  Safely and beautifully. Yep! Safety is my NUMBER ONE priority, which is why I have trained with some of the BEST IN THIS BUSINESS!

Charlotte Newborn Photographer--KatieRie Photography

 

This is more than just a photo shoot for you. This is an experience.  And how cool is it that we get to capture this monumental time in your life? Plus you walk away with gorgeous pieces of art for your home.  Just like that awesome restaurant I was talking about…you will walk away talking about how this made you feel and have gorgeous pieces as evidence.

Are you expecting? Let’s Chat! And see if we jive!

Gastonia Newborn Photos

Welcome to the world, Baby Willa!

Do you know how amazing my job is?! I get to preserve each tiny detail through gorgeous newborn photos. I mean, how amazing is that?! Every session is that exciting for me, and Baby Willa’s session was no different. I knew about this sweet little nugget (when she was in the womb) way back in March, and I was ECSTATIC to start planning mommy’s maternity and newborn sessions.  Mommy and I have known each other for years (like way back into the single digits!), so I was so honored to be a huge part of this little family’s life. Just look at how gorgeous her mommy and daddy are! I KNEW she was going to be a stunning baby.

Gastonia Newborn Photos
Charlotte Maternity Photographer

Gastonia Newborn Photos

Welcome Baby Girl!

At the beginning of the newborn session, mom had a great time looking through all my props, headbands, layers and wraps.  I keep the studio completely stocked with goodies galore! My style is organic, clean, and soft, which compliments the baby’s features. Look at how incredibly precious Baby Willa looked during her session!

Gastonia Newborn PhotosShe stayed so curly and cuddly during her poses, and being wrapped was her absolute favorite! During sessions I have a few tricks up my sleeve to keep newborns calm and sleepy.  I share some of those secrets when I send out the Studio Guide right before your session. Then during the photo shoot, parents are able to sit back, relax and enjoy their time.  I love chatting with new parents about the labor and any struggles they might be experiencing.  I had three under three so I had/have my share of struggles as well! We almost become like family, sharing a huge milestone and all that goes with it.

Gastonia Newborn PhotosGastonia Newborn PhotosBook your session with KatieRie Photography and I promise you will leave feeling like we have been friends forever! I will take care of your sweet little baby like she was my own and you will have beautiful photographs that will be cherished for years to come.

Gastonia Newborn Photographer

 Sweet Baby Max||Gastonia Newborn Photos

One of my favorite things about being a newborn photographer is featuring my sweet clients and being able to re-live the session in a blog post.  This little guy came to the studio in September and I just about DIED when I saw his beautiful head of RED HAIR! I mean, just LOOK at his strawberry fluff!

Red Headed Baby Bliss

Baby Max came to the studio and slept the entire time–guys, this DOES NOT always happen!  But he was an absolute DREAM! When newborn clients book a session with KatieRie Photography, I send a Newborn Studio Guide to help parents prepare for their session. These are my list of secrets as a (somewhat self-) proclaimed baby whisperer!  I tell them that I know sometimes babies won’t comply 100 percent, but to try to follow the guide so that our session can go extremely smooth.  Nine times out of ten–it works! Can you tell that baby Max’s parents read the guide?!

Sweet Baby Dreams

We were able to get many different looks during Max’s session–a great mixture of “beanbag” poses (the first set of photos in this post) as well as prop poses.  The colors that were chosen were soft neutrals that were perfect for the beginning of fall. Plus Max looked absolutely adorable in every single set-up! I love using a variety of textures and layers to add depth and character to each “look.” But I also like the set-ups to compliment each other so everything will look gorgeous hanging in clients’ homes!

Baby Smirk

Overall, Max’s session was a HUGE success.  I think Max thought so too.

Are you pregnant or do you know someone who is? Let’s CHAT! And see if we are a good fit for each other!

KatieRie is a PREMIER Charlotte Newborn Photographer that specializes in Maternity, Family, Baby, Cake Smash, Seniors and Newborn Photography

Serving the Charlotte (South Gastonia), NC area including, but not limited to Belmont, Gastonia, Huntersville, Davidson, Pineville, Fort Mill, Clover, Matthews, Indian Trail, Concord, and York.

 

How to Find the Best Newborn Photographer

Top TIPS for finding your Newborn Photographer

CONGRATULATIONS! You just found out you were expecting a BABY!  A tiny, squishy, beautiful little bundle! EEK! Now the fun starts. Not only are you going through morning sickness, experiencing bloating, have food aversions, and are extremely exhausted, but you are trying to find the perfect newborn photographer for YOU.  How in the WORLD do you even start? That’s where I come in. YAY! I’m here to go through some tips to help you find the baby photographer who fits your needs.

How to Find the Best Newborn Photographer
Precious Little Babes

Tip ONE: Look for Someone with TRAINING & EXPERIENCE

When looking for a newborn photographer, look for someone who has been adequately trainedThis is NOT the time to choose your cheapest option.  This baby just spent ten long months growing in your womb–this is your pride and joy! You want someone who knows what they are doing–someone who has been trained and continues to learn from some of the best photographers in the world. After initial contact with clients, I explain that safety is my number one priority and why this is important.  Babies are moved from pose to pose with comfort and ease and never forced into any position.  The tiny subjects are always spotted and never left unattended. I explain that our little models run the show (kind of like in real life as well–LOL) and the babes “tell me” if they are into a pose/position or not. I have invested in mentorships, education, workshops, and hands-on training to ensure that I know best safety practices and that your precious newborn is taken care of.  In fact, I’m about to go on my second annual newborn photographer’s retreat in Florida!  Check out what we did LAST YEAR!

How to Find the Best Newborn Photographer
Charlotte Newborn Photographer

Tip TWO: Find Someone who has a TOP-NOTCH Studio

Look for a baby photographer who is not only trained, but who has amazing equipment as well. My STUDIO is well stocked with state-of-the-art equipment that allows me to create beautiful works of art of your little newborn. I have perfected lighting placement and know the ins and outs of my camera, which all contribute to producing gorgeous images for your home.  The Studio has props, hats, bonnets, headbands, and wraps galore–that have all been specifically made for newborn photography. Parents don’t have to bring a thing to the session–only themselves and the little model! If parents have something special they want to bring from home, I ask to see a photo of it before the session so I can plan or gage if it can be incorporated in the session flow, or not.  Often clients  bring a hat or headband that they think is adorable (which it usually is!), but the item is not made for baby photography, so it’s too big or bulky for the session. All of the studio objects that have been purchased for the studio are made by newborn photography prop vendors with the best and softest materials for the little babies!

How to Find the Best Newborn Photographer
Newborn Photography Style

Tip THREE: Look for a Newborn Style you LOVE

There are MANY different Newborn Photography styles. You need to find the right fit for YOU. My baby photography style is typically light and airy (above) with a touch of dark, dramatic shadows (below):

How to Find the Best Newborn Photographer
Classic Black & White

I love making each session unique to each client and I really try to listen to clients’ desires while staying true to my art and style. If baby is fussy, I wrap and swaddle them so they feel secure and comfortable. I can still create beautiful images this way. I have been called the “baby whisperer” many times because I am able to calm and soothe the baby into a deep slumber. In fact, I’ve been invited over to client’s home for 3am visits! HA! This sounds like a business opportunity to me…

Some parents want more props poses, which I happily oblige:

How to Find the Best Newborn Photographer
Prop shots

While others prefer the “beanbag poses”:

How to Find the Best Newborn Photographer
Charlotte Newborn Photography: “Beanbag poses”

No matter what, I am CONFIDENT that I can capture all the cuteness of your sweet little bundle of love! I hope these tips help you while you are searching–ah-hem-(me over here, waiving my hands in the air)-for the BEST Newborn Photographer;)

 

Are YOU expecting?! LET’S CHAT to see if we are a good fit for each other!

 

 

Ruby Kate–Charlotte Newborn Session

Backup Photographer

Little Miss Ruby’s Aunt reached out to me, asking if I was available to do Ruby’s newborn session. She is also an amazing photographer (check her out at Jenny Longlais Photography), but had something unexpectedly come up and needed me to fill in.  I was soooo happy to do so, since I had an opening and I ADORE snuggling sweet babies! I love when things just fall into place. And that’s what happened this session.

“…more precious than rubies”

When I first meet parents during a newborn photography session, one of my favorite things to chat about is the baby’s name.  I love hearing the story behind it or why it stood out to mom and dad or if there’s a namesake involved.  For all three of my children, it was such a special and exciting time, deciding what they would be called for the rest of their lives; figuring out what they would be called when they got in trouble or how their name would look written out.  When I heard the story behind this sweet baby’s name my heart melted. Mom brought a blanket with the bible verse (Proverbs 3:15), “She is more precious than rubies…” You see, this baby was long awaited for.  It took (lots of) faith and trust.  When mom saw this verse, she loved the name Ruby.  She had not yet told her husband this little fact, and one day he came home and said “what about the name Ruby?” Gosh…talk about heart strings being pulled.

The session was a dream–little Miss Ruby was a doll and absolutely precious. Her parents were so attentive and doted on her the whole time.  We chatted about how difficult it can be, becoming a new parent. How it’s a transition going from just the two of you to the three of you.  And how there’s so much stuff now–EVERYWHERE! We were able to incorporate so many fun props and wraps from the Studio, as well as the blanket that had the verse about Ruby’s name.

Did we just become friends?

When you book a newborn session with KatieRie, you are more than just a client; we become fast friends. Just like with Ruby’s session, we get to swap stories about one of the most important things to happen in our lives. I don’t take that lightly. I adore getting to know you and your baby. I get just as excited to hear your story–and sometimes I even cry with you! Thank you for choosing me to capture these amazing moments. It is truly an honor.

Interested in booking a session? Contact me today! Spots are limited!

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