I love being a newborn photographer in Grand Rapids. Capturing those first moments—whether it’s your first baby or adding to your family—is such a joy. I want each session to be more than just photos; I want it to be an experience where you walk away with art that captures beautiful memories that really matter.
Every family has their own style, and that’s what makes each session unique. Whether you’re after classic, timeless images or something more vibrant, I’m here to bring your vision to life!
Styling a newborn photography session in Grand Rapids, MI is about more than just taking adorable photos of your little one—there’s a great deal of planning, creativity, and attention to detail that goes into ensuring every single session aligns with the vision parents have for their baby’s first professional portraits. My goal with every session is capture more than just what your baby looks like; I want to show off every detail, their tiny personalities and to highlight your family’s unique style. Here’s a deeper look at how I style each session to create timeless images you’ll love forever.
Step 1: Color Scheme Selection—A Personalized Experience
Every newborn session kicks off with a chat about your style and vision for your newborn session. To keep things easy and organized, I’ll send over a detailed pre-session questionnaire as soon as you book. It’s not just your average form—it’s all about getting to know your family’s aesthetic and creating a session that feels totally you. I want to know your favorite colors, sure—but I also want to know specifics, like whether you’re drawn to soft blush pinks and baby blues or more into cooler mints and lavenders.
For those who love neutrals, I dig even deeper. Are you into warmer neutrals like creams and taupes, or do you prefer cooler grays and beiges? These little details are what make a session feel cohesive and uniquely yours. This is all part of the experience I offer as a Grand Rapids newborn photographer—styling every session so it reflects your family and makes your baby the star of every shot!
Step 2: Building a Custom Session Plan
Once I have a clear sense of your style, color preferences, and any inspiration images you’ve shared with me, I get to work creating a custom session plan just for you. This plan pulls in your vision but also combines my expertise in lighting, posing, and styling to bring out the best in every shot. I’ll match specific colors to certain poses and setups, making sure the hues you love are highlighted in a way that flatters your little one’s delicate features.
So, if you’ve chosen soft neutrals with hints of dusty rose, I might use a textured beige backdrop and add subtle pops of pink through wraps, headbands, and props. The session plan also considers the flow of poses and setups, making sure the images flow together seamlessly for a gallery that tells a complete story.
If you’ve sent me inspiration images (which I always love to see!), I’ll do my best to incorporate those details too. Maybe it’s a certain pose, a specific use of lighting, or a particular arrangement of props—whatever it is, I’ll weave those elements into your session in a way that fits your vibe but elevates it with my professional touch. This planning process helps me create a one-of-a-kind experience for families all over Grand Rapids and nearby areas like Rockford, Ada, and East Grand Rapids.
Step 3: Curating the Perfect Props & Accessories
I’ve spent years building a collection of high-quality backdrops, wraps, and accessories that cover a wide range of colors and textures from some of the top vendors in the industry. I pull from this collection to create looks that not only complement your baby’s natural beauty but also match the style you’re going for. If there’s a color or prop you want that I don’t have (which is pretty rare), I’m always up for a little shopping to find just the right piece to bring your vision to life.
I love working with different textures and layers to create interest and depth in your portraits. I’m personally drawn to a more classic style, which is why I like to keep things simple with smooth fabrics and clean lines. Sometimes you will see some florals, minimal props added to my setups. My goal is to make sure that every prop, wrap, and accessory is intentionally chosen and used in a way that enhances the image without taking away from the true focus—your baby
Step 4: Styling the Session for a Personalized Experience
Once we’ve got a solid plan, I’ll start styling the session. This is where all the planning comes together. I use the colors, textures, and props we’ve discussed to create a setup that feels cohesive and natural. If you’re into neutrals, I might layer different shades of cream and taupe with a few touches of texture to keep things visually interesting. For color lovers, I’ll weave in bolder hues that pop against more subtle backdrops.
Every detail is carefully considered to make sure it aligns with the look and feel you’re after. This level of styling is what makes your session unique and results in images that are true to your family’s style. It’s not just about what looks good—it’s about what feels right for you.
Step 5: Bringing It All Together
Once the styling is done, it’s time for the session itself! I guide parents through the process so you feel comfortable and relaxed. I know that no two babies are the same, and flexibility is key to capturing those perfect shots. Sometimes that means adjusting the plan a little bit or going with the flow if your little one has other ideas. But rest assured, every session ends with a gallery that feels authentic and special to your family.
Styling a newborn session might look like a lot of little details, but it’s all part of my process to make sure you get images that are everything you hoped for and more. I want you to look back at your gallery and remember not just how your baby looked, but also the joy and love of these early moments. That’s what makes each session so rewarding for me as a newborn photographer serving Grand Rapids and the surrounding areas.
Closing Thoughts
What makes my newborn sessions stand out is the time and thought I put into every detail. Families in the Grand Rapids area choose me not just for their newborn photos, but for the whole experience of working with someone who genuinely cares about their vision and what they want to remember from this special time.
Incorporating your style and preferences is always a top priority. I want every session to feel collaborative and unique to you. From the moment you walk into my studio space, I’m listening to your ideas and making sure your baby’s comfort and safety are front and center in everything we do.
Expecting a little one and looking for newborn photos in Grand Rapids, MI? I’d love to chat and start planning a session that’s all about capturing these first precious moments. Let’s make some magic together!
xoxo
Jackie
