These stylish parents had recently moved from NYC and completely renovated their new Montclair home. Montclair, NJ, is a small city just outside of Manhattan. It is the perfect place for young families and soon-to-be-parents who are ready to move out of the big city. These clients have impeccable style and taste, so I loved to see the updates to their home, including baby Lucy Jean’s sophisticated nursery. 

We did a Zoom consultation appointment and discussed all of the details of the in-home newborn session beforehand. Mom wasn’t quite sure what she would wear for the portraits and wanted something flattering, as all post-partum mamas do. The studio wardrobe is perfect for this. I brought several dresses based on her size, style preferences, and the colors of her home. Mom tried them on the morning of her session, and she was between dresses, so I provided some feedback. I love that I can do this for all my newborn clients, not just studio clients. I will always suggest off-the-shoulder dresses for newborn sessions because a tiny baby snuggled up on mama's bare shoulder is always beautiful and timeless. I adore the photos of mom, dad, and baby Lucy Jean on the master bed, where she is snuggled in adorably. Dad had a lovely neutral cashmere half zip sweater that was perfect for a winter in home newborn session.

For hair and makeup, I was happy to recommend a few of my favorite hair and makeup artists. I like to set things up so that whoever wants this pampering service can sit back and relax while my HMUA comes to meet them at their home or the studio for their appointment. For busy clients, or any client who wants a relaxing newborn session experience, having hair and makeup done professionally is so helpful. Clients often worry they won't look like themselves, but all my preferred artists are primary wedding HMUAs, so they specialize in natural makeup that looks like a fresh version of yourself. New moms always tell me they want to look well rested. We’ve got you. When I walk into a newborn session and see Mama in the HMU chair, I am so happy. She is relaxed, her partner, mom, or nanny is making sure the baby is content, and I know mom will start the session feeling relaxed and refreshed. For in-home sessions, I use this time to walk through the home to assess the natural light and the best places for photos based on the light, design, and décor. Some clients want a lot of their home featured in portraits, while others want us to stick with one room. I love when clients trust my vision and allow me to create a variety of images that include their stunning home. I will also include close-up images and dramatic lighting that will highlight the emotion and connection of this special time.

It was such a treat to work with this Montclair family. I can’t wait to see sweet Lucy again for her first birthday portrait session, which I know will be here so much sooner than any of us can imagine.