Sweet Dreamers Session (for newborns)

In the spring of 2011 I took a special class for posing and photographing newborn babies, from two of the premiere baby photographers in the U.S. This was an intense class focusing on camera technique, Photoshop, and of course the baby posing. These two ladies have been successfully photographing newborns in amazing and creative poses, and started a trend with their “chin” pose which has been duplicated by hundreds of photographers (including myself). I learned so much more than posing, though, like how to handle babies, how to read their body language, the power of energy during a session, and most important, safety for the baby. Trust me when I warn you not to let just any photographer position your week old baby in some of the poses we’ve been able to do. It’s definitely something that requires knowledge and experience, and I feel my assistant and I have that.

This special session is exclusively for the newborn up to 2 -3 weeks old.  Parent(s) of course must be present, but grandparents, siblings and other family member are discouraged from being present. We know how important family is but this session is just for ‘baby only’ and we have very specific shots in mind and in order to maintain the ideal situation for this session to be successful we must be strict with these conditions. However, we may capture a few artful poses using parents as props but this is not considered a family session. Studio 360 will gladly schedule another session that includes family members for another day.

360 loves Babies!

My favorite subject to photograph are newborns, because the prospect of capturing a new little person is truly inspiring and just because they are cute! The tiny fingers & toes, the wispy hair, the NO hair, the soft skin, and little belly buttons. My style highlights the beautiful features that define your baby, along with artful poses that create distinct portraits that will be cherished for a lifetime.

Let’s Make A Plan!

When to schedule your session? It is never too early to book a newborn session. Because your baby’s birth date is unpredictable, I will reserve a time frame for you. If you are given an induction or c-section date, the actual session date can be booked in advance. If you are letting baby decide, Studio 360 will mark your due date and expect a call from you as soon as baby arrives.

The Perfect Age

I prefer to photograph newborns around 1 week old, but for this type of newborn session babies under 3 weeks will work as well. Older newborns tend to sleep less and do not curl up as easily. Newborn acne and colic may flare up at around 2 weeks of age as well. So it’s best to get the session done as soon as possible after the birth.

Prices & Procedures

The total Sweet Dreamer session is $225 and includes my time both shooting and post production. This is a very specific type of session that takes time, patience and much set-up.

Your Session

I operate this session according to each individual newborn. It’s not uncommon for the session to last two or three hours, allowing plenty of time for feedings and comforting. I try to create a warm soothing atmosphere in the studio to keep baby as sleepy and calm as possible. The studio area will be very warm, so parents are encouraged to dress light. Baby’s will, in most cases, be photographed nude with cute hats. Please avoid any clothing on the baby that might leave impressions in their skin (socks, etc.). Of course, gender specific parts are not photographed. Myself, and my assistant will spend lots of time getting baby into very specific poses, which is the hallmark of this special Sweet Dreamers session.

Please call us with any questions you may have, or to book your session. 701-837-0407

 

Grads! Here’s the 411…Sweet and Simple!

The Half… $95 weekdays $120 Saturdays
45 minutes, in studio, 2 outfits

The Walkabout… $150 weekdays $200 Saturdays
90 minutes, on location, 3-4 outfits, 360 Cinema for Grads DVD*

The Ultimate … $250 weekdays $300 Saturdays
2 hours, on location, unlimited outfits, 360 Cinema for Grads DVD*

The Model … $400 weekdays $450 Saturdays
3 hours, in studio & location, includes hair and makeup, unlimited outfits, 360 Cinema for Grads DVD*

There is a $25 location fee for each additional location you choose. A location is defined as a place you have to drive to. For locations outside of Minot area, call for additional fees.

The session fee includes photographer’s time and post processing of photos, plus a proof booklet. You are not bound into a certain purchase amount. You have the freedom to choose what you purchase and how much you want to spend. At this time, I do not sell the copyrights to my photos.

Session fee is due at time of booking and is payable by check, cash or Visa/MC. This fee is non-refundable in the event of client cancellation within less than 48 hour notice. If the session is outdoors and it is raining/snowing, please call and we will reschedule.

 

Not a Grad, or a Baby?… this is for you!!

The Basic Session – $75 (one of the best values in town!). This session is our most popular session and includes about a half hour of session time. There is no limit to clothing changes, just a limit on time. Usually, this session is chosen for one or two people. Larger groups may require the Works Session (explained below). This session can be indoor or outdoor at a location of your choice (within Minot city limits).

The Basic Session includes:

* Session (talent, time & creative/post production)
* Approx. 20+ Online Proofs
* Creative Enhancements on select photos (photographers choice)
* Free 60 Day Online View Gallery
* Free Facebook connect right from your Online Gallery

Need more?

The Works Session ($150) is the same as the Basic, except it doubles your session time, gives you more Online Proofs, and you get a proof booklet along with a DVD slideshow. This session is usually the choice if you have multiple children, or different groupings of people, or just plain want to spend more time taking awesome photos.

Tips for kids…
We’ve encountered just about every scenario possible with kids. We are very patient. Experience has taught us that if everyone involved is calm, the session will be so much easier. But this is not to say that all sessions with kids are a challenge. Most sessions are just plain fun, we love kids at 360!

Some pre-planning is helpful. Depending on the age, schedule your session after nap time. You know your child best, make sure your child is here when they are their best. Nobody, not even adults, likes to be put on the spot with a camera in their face when they’re tired or hungry. Talk it up with your child, get them excited to come here. When you get to the studio, we’ll “ease” up to your child. Many times, Kim will sit on the floor and play with them for a bit. This helps them feel more comfortable. Parents, if you relax as well, it will go much better.

We have photographed hundreds and hundreds of kids over the years and no two situations are the same. While we always like to capture those cute smiling faces, three or four people screaming “smile!” doesn’t usually work. We always try to start with a calm & happy demeanor, then resort to bribery and other methods if we need to.

The most important thing to remember is that your children are only young once. Parents, don’t let this session stress you out!! We’ll work with your child, and if you’re relaxed, chances are your child will relax as well. Don’t let the years go by without professional photos taken. Snapshots are fine, but nothing can replace the quality and eye of a professional.

Need some idea’s?? For children, we have a limited amount of props and such, but why not bring in your child’s favorite toy or blanket. It will at least make them feel more at home in the studio. Props are definitely not necessary. We actually prefer to capture kids and adults just as they are which looks more natural anyway, right?