Family and Newborn Photographer Serving the OKC Metro
Oklahoma City Baby Photographer for First Time Parents
Posted in Newborn Photography, Portfolio by Charis Elisabeth
If you’re expecting your first baby, you’re probably already realizing how many decisions come your way, and somewhere in the middle of nursery planning, doctor visits, and trying to get a little extra rest, the question of newborn photos sneaks in there too.
You might be wondering if it’s worth it, what kind of session even fits your life and style, and how in the world you plan something like this when you’ve never done it before.
Hello! That’s why I’m here. As an Oklahoma City Baby Photographer for first time parents, you all are a favorite of mine to serve!
You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need a space to land and someone who can walk you through it in a way that feels calm and doable.
Why In-Home Lifestyle Newborn Photography Just Makes Sense
There’s something unique about being photographed in your own home during those first days.
You’re not packing a diaper bag, loading up the car, or trying to be somewhere on time when you barely know what time even means anymore. You’re already in the place where you feel most comfortable, which makes everything feel a little more manageable.
Your baby settles easier. You feel more relaxed.
And then there’s the part most people don’t think about, but the main reason I truly love in home newborn photos: Your home is part of your story.
The chair you rocked in at 2 a.m., the bassinet next to your bed, the way the light comes through the nursery window in the morning. These are the details that fade faster than you expect, the ones you are likely to not remember well and they are the ones that end up meaning the most.
In-home sessions allow all of that to be included naturally without needing to stage anything or make it look like something it’s not.
Snacks can stay within reach. You can take breaks whenever you need to without feeling like you’re holding anyone up. It feels a whole lot less like a photoshoot and more like getting to enjoy your real life for a little while.
How to book an Oklahoma City Baby Photo Session
This part tends to feel confusing at first, especially with so many unknowns around baby’s arrival and you’ve never done it before!
Most families reach out during the second trimester or early in the third trimester. That gives plenty of time to get everything on the calendar without feeling rushed. And making sure you get your favorite photographer. If you wish you can also add in a maternity photo session too.
Instead of booking a firm date right away, your session is reserved based on your due date. As soon as your baby arrives, you text me, and I’ll send over a few dates in the following weeks.
When you book, you’ll receive simple guidance on what to wear, how to prepare your space without overthinking it, and what helps the session feel smooth. And mamas get access to a client closet. The mama you see in these photos chose this beautiful dress available to my clients.
And guess what? You don’t even have to have a nursery or perfectly decorated home for this session. I’ve done sessions in homes under construction, I’ve done sessions in tiny studio apartments and I’ve done sessions in large homes.
Lifestyle baby photos are very dependent on where the good light is so that’s what we will look for in your home. You just need you, your baby and a window.
What to Expect During Your Session
The biggest thing to know is that there is no expectation for you or your baby to perform.
Babies need to be fed, changed, and held often, and that is all part of the session. If we pause so you can feed your baby or settle them, that time is built in and completely normal.
Usually we start the session with baby in a simple outfit where we can see their toes and hands then half way through I will swaddle them in my special swaddle. This makes them feel snug, safe and sleepy and keeping them calm the rest of the session.
We move through your home in a simple, natural way, using the best light and the spaces that feel most like you. That might be your bedroom, the nursery, or even the living room floor where everyone ends up together.
There’s a lot of holding, snuggling, and just being with your baby.
You don’t need to know what to do with your hands or worry about where to stand. I guide you when needed and step back when moments are unfolding on their own. By the end, most families say it felt easier than they expected and more like a slow morning at home than anything else.
For the First Time Parents Who Are Still Unsure
It’s very normal to feel a little hesitant about doing photos during such a vulnerable season.
You might feel tired, unsure of yourself, or like your home is not quite ready to be seen. You mama might still feel swollen and big and not very pretty yet.
What I want you to know is that none of those things disqualify you from having photos that you will treasure. This season is full and a little messy and incredibly meaningful all at once, and that is exactly why it deserves to be documented.
If you’re looking for an Oklahoma City baby photographer first time parents who keeps things relaxed and real, I’d love to help you plan a session that feels honest and true to you. I’ve been photographing families for over 7 years, and I know how meaningful it is to have someone walk you through this season with calm, simple direction. Contact me here and let’s get started!
