What should I bring to the session?
For newborn sessions, come comfy and prepared to relax! Bring drinks, snacks, a book, a tablet, or even your laptop to help pass the time—sessions can take several hours, and we want you to feel at home while we work our magic.
How long does a newborn session take?
Newborn sessions typically last 2 to 4 hours, depending on how your baby is feeling. We take plenty of time for feeding, soothing, and posing to ensure a calm, stress-free experience. Following the prep guide we provide after booking is key to a smooth and successful session!
Do you offer mini newborn sessions or shorter sessions?
We don’t offer mini sessions for newborns. These little ones need lots of love, time, and patience—soothing, feeding, and gently posing can take up most of the session. Rushing the process just isn’t safe or effective.
When should I book my session?
As early as possible! Elvie only photographs a limited number of newborns per month, so booking in advance ensures we can hold a spot for your due date.
Why should newborns be photographed before 3 weeks old?
The sweet spot is within the first 21 days after birth. Babies at this age are sleepier, curlier, and easier to pose. After two weeks, they tend to be more alert and less flexible, making those dreamy, snuggly poses more difficult to achieve.
Where are the sessions held?
All newborn sessions take place in Elvie’s cozy home studio located in the charming Andersonville neighborhood on the north side of Chicago. The space is warm, welcoming, and fully equipped for your baby’s comfort and safety.
Can my older children be included in the photos?
Absolutely! We love capturing sibling moments. That said, we work with each child’s personality and comfort level—some siblings are camera-ready, while others need a little patience and encouragement. We’ll do our best to get those precious sibling shots. Additional charge will be added for sibling scene.
Can I bring a special prop or family heirloom?
We’d love to see what you have in mind! Whether it can be used will depend on the size, safety, and how it fits into the creative vision for your session. If it’s meaningful to you, let’s talk about how we might include it beautifully and safely.
