Capturing the authentic love, candid moments, and deep connection that make your family unique.
Behind the Lens: A Guide to Sessions with Natalie Maria Photography
Planning a photo session can feel a little overwhelming, especially if you have young kids (or a baby who likes to surprise you with spit-up at the worst moments). But it doesn’t have to be stressful—I promise! A photo session with Natalie Maria Photography is laid-back, fun, and designed to capture your family as you truly are: connected, loving, and real.
Whether you’re planning a newborn session at home, a family shoot at a Chicago park, or a maternity session to celebrate your growing bump, I’m here to guide you through the entire process. Here’s what you can expect, from start to finish.
Before Your Session
Once you book your session, you'll receive a short questionnaire. This session form helps me get to know your family, what you're hoping to capture, and any special details I should be aware of (like shy toddlers, hyperactive 5 year olds, or dogs who love to photobomb). It also acts as a contract, so everything is clear and covered from the start.
You'll also receive tips for what to wear, how to prep your space (for in-home sessions), and a reminder that yes—pets are totally welcome! They're part of the family too, and they always add a little extra joy (and a little extra fur).
NEWBORN
Newborn sessions always take place in your home—where everyone (including baby) is most comfortable. When I arrive, I’ll take a quick look around to find the best window-lit spots. I work exclusively with natural light, so I ask that all overhead/lamp/artificial lights be turned off.
I usually begin in the main bedroom. I might start with your baby on the bed alone while they’re calm and cozy, and then ease into shots with siblings and parents. We’ll move around the house depending on the light—the nursery, living room, hallway alcove, and sometimes I might even grab a shot or two in the kitchen depending on what your kitchen looks like. I keep it simple and organic. If baby needs to nurse or take a break, we pause. No stress. We follow baby’s lead.
If you’re open to it, we can take a few photos outdoors at the end of the session, weather and mood permitting. I tend to use the main bedroom and nursery the most, and sometimes the living room as well. I pick the best spots according to window light, and if there happens to be only one good window, we may do the entire session there…but don’t worry, I get tons of variety by simply moving myself and you around.
Family
My lifestyle family sessions are all about connection and fun—no stiff posing here. At home, I work similarly to a newborn session, capturing you in the rooms where your family lives and laughs together (yes, your child’s room counts, even if it’s a mess!).
For outdoor sessions, we meet at a park, lakefront, or another favorite location…we will decide on loaction together in the weeks before the shoot. I typically recommend golden hour—the hour before sunset—for the most beautiful, glowing light. In summer when the days are longest, golden hour can be a bit late….sometimes that can interfere with dinner and/or bedtime. But if you can rearrange your schedule a bit and give your kids some down time beforehand, it really is worth it. I do offer morning sessions as well, but I avoid mid-day as the light can be really harsh and unflattering when it’s overhead.
We’ll move through a few different areas during the session. I always start with some classic family shots, and then ease into playful prompts and activities: walking hand in hand, tickling on a blanket, tossing your kiddo in the air (safely, of course). Expect movement, giggles, and real moments.
Click the button below to see some of my favorite Chicago photoshoot locations.
My family sessions at home are similar to my newborn sessions…although if you have multiple kids we may shoot in your kids rooms as well.
Maternity sessions can be at your home or outdoors. If we’re at your home, I want you standing more than sitting so we can see your belly clearly in the photos, so we will mostly avoid sitting poses. Expect to be on your feet a bit more here, with hands on your belly often. Of course, if you need to take a break at any time please feel free- while shooting a newborn session during my own pregnancy I got dizzy and almost passed out! Needless to say,I needed to sit and drink some water before continuing.
If your partner is joining, we’ll do some cozy, connected couple shots. If you have other children (or fur children), they’ll absolutely be part of the session too. These sessions tend to move a bit faster than family or newborn sessions—typically about 30 minutes, unless we’re having too much fun to stop.
Next Steps: Let’s Make Magic Together
A photo session with Natalie Maria Photography isn’t just about pretty pictures—it’s about telling your story. My job is to help you feel relaxed and seen, and to document the love and connection that makes your family one-of-a-kind.
Ready to book a session? Whether you’re welcoming a new baby, want to update family photos, or celebrate a pregnancy—I’d love to hear from you. Let’s make something beautiful together.
