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Hi there! I’m Isabel Sweet, a Boston native, pregnant mom, and family photographer. I have been photographing families since 2012. Over the years I have spoken to hundreds of expectant and new parents, and I hear many questions that come up before a family decides to book their newborn session. That’s normal! Bringing someone into your home in the early days of love with your child is a big decision, and I want you to be informed and comfortable before we meet. So I put together this guide to answer the questions Boston women and men ask me the most. Consider this a simple guide to the most common questions I hear from new parents.
When should we book our newborn session?
One of the most common questions I get is when to book. I always recommend booking your session during pregnancy so I can plan your due date. You do not need an exact date of birth to reserve your spot. I work around your due date and am flexible as your delivery approaches. Newborn photos are usually taken within the first two weeks of life, when babies are still asleep and curled up, making it easy to capture the momentary moments of birth. Booking during pregnancy only guarantees your place on my calendar so we are not rushed when your baby arrives.
Is it too late if our baby is already a few weeks old?
Not at all. I know that life with a newborn is unpredictable, and sometimes families reach the end of the first two weeks. It is never too late to take this part of your child’s life. The photos may look a little different since your child may be more alert, but this means they have a chance to capture real smiles, bright eyes, and see their faces pop. These sweet stages go by very quickly, and as I always tell my clients, every stage should be recorded, and we will create beautiful pictures no matter how old your child is.
Where are the sessions held, and is home better?
This is one of my favorite questions to answer because it is the heart of how I work. I have come to you. Each newborn session is held in your home or at your favorite Boston location so you don’t have to pack your newborn and leave the house during those hectic first weeks. I bring everything needed for a relaxed, professional session, including studio lighting for smaller or smaller spaces. You don’t need a big, bright house for beautiful pictures. I’ve photographed families in large homes all over Boston and the surrounding area, so you don’t need a big house or great lighting to get beautiful photos.
What do we have to offer for this session?
Honestly, just your child. That’s the whole point of working with me. I take care of everything so you can relax and enjoy your experience instead of stressing out. Here’s what I’m coming up with:
- A collection of timeless bedding, blankets, and blankets for your baby
- Women’s wardrobe staples
- A styling guide to be confident and camera-ready
- Studio lighting equipment if your venue needs extra light
Before you start your session, I also send each family a simple prep checklist and styling guide so you know what to expect and how to prepare. Bold, purple and perfumed dresses, grays, and soft pastels tend to paint beautifully and focus on what your family is talking about.
How long does the newborn period last?
Newborn sessions last between one and two hours, depending on your baby’s needs. I move at your baby’s pace, which means there’s plenty of time to prepare meals, change diapers, soothe, and breathe easily. There is no rush and no pressure, just a relaxed morning or a relaxed afternoon around your child.
After that, we set aside about an hour for you to order, where I will help you choose the paintings and digital photos that best fit your family and your home.
Can some of our children, loved ones, and pets be in this role?
Absolutely, and I recommend it. These photos are as much about your family memories as they are now, so I like to include family members, friends, and even the family dog or cat. As a dog mom myself, I know that pets are an important part of the family, and they are always welcome to be included. A lot of moms tell me beforehand that they’d rather not look at pictures because they’re tired or adjusting after giving birth, and that’s okay. I do not force anyone, but I say that at the end of many sessions, even shy mothers can want a few beautiful pictures with their child, and we always make this.
What is the cost of buying a birth share in Boston?
I believe in staying ahead of the curve so there are no surprises. My average newborn fee is $450, which is based on your personal preferences, home depot. Digital photos and heirloom artwork, such as wall art and photo albums, are priced separately at the time of ordering.
The collection starts at $1,800 and includes the entire digital collection as well as a family photo collection. Customers spend between $2,500 and $4,500 on a complete piece, depending on the artwork and materials they choose.
You can see a full breakdown of options on my pricing page.
What makes a Boston-born home artist different from a studio?
The biggest difference is comfort. A studio session means carrying a new baby, driving across town, and trying to keep everyone quiet in an unfamiliar place, all the while getting a little sleep.
With the indoor unit, you skip all that. You stay in your pajamas until I come home, your baby sleeps in their own house, and it all feels like a relaxing morning at home rather than going out. I bring the studio to you, from lighting to costume design, so you can get polished, professional results from the comfort of your own home.
A few quick answers
Do you shoot outside of Boston?
Yes. I photograph families in Boston and surrounding areas, including Newton, Cambridge, Somerville, Lexington, Westwood, and Chestnut Hill.
Do you also make time for women and families?
Yes, in addition to newborn photography, I offer maternity sessions and family photography, many of my clients book several sessions with me over the years.
What will we get at the end of this episode?
You’ll leave time to order after choosing your favorite photos along with any heirloom items you’d like, such as a permanent album or wall art, so that your photos are something you display and enjoy instead of files sitting untouched on your hard drive.
Ready to book your Boston newborn session?
I know how many decisions come with welcoming a new baby, and I want to make the imaging process easy on your list. If you have more questions or are ready to reserve your spot, I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me directly at isabel@isabelsweet.com or (617) 398-7537, or contact me to reserve your session.