If you’re expecting and starting to think about newborn photos, you probably have questions — when to book, what actually happens during a session, what it costs. This page walks through all of it, the way I’d explain it if we were sitting across from each other with coffee.
I’m Mandie, a studio newborn photographer based in New Richmond, WI, serving families throughout Hudson, Stillwater, and the greater Twin Cities area. My approach is calm and unhurried — I photograph with empathy and intention, so the images feel like you, not like a template.
A studio newborn session takes place in my New Richmond studio space, where lighting, temperature, and setup are all controlled specifically for a sleepy, comfortable baby. Unlike a lifestyle session in your home, a studio session gives us access to posing setups, wraps, and backdrops designed just for newborns — and it means you don’t have to clean or prep your house beforehand. You simply show up.
The best time to book is during pregnancy, ideally in your second trimester. Newborn sessions themselves happen when baby is between about 5 and 14 days old, while babies are still naturally sleepy and curly. Because that window is short and babies arrive on their own schedule, I hold a flexible spot for you and we confirm the exact date once baby is here.
Plan on your session taking two to four hours. That’s not because there’s a lot to “do” — it’s because we go at baby’s pace. We’ll pause for feeding, soothing, and diaper changes as needed. I keep the studio warm, the space quiet, and the whole experience relaxed for both you and baby. Parent and sibling portraits are included as part of our time together.
Yes. Baby’s safety and comfort always come before getting “the shot.” I use safe posing and support techniques, and I never compromise a pose for the sake of a photo. If you’d like general guidance on newborn safety and sleep, the American Academy of Pediatrics is a trusted resource for new parents.
A studio newborn session is $425, which includes session prep support and edited digital images for download. A $200 deposit is due at booking, with the remaining $225 due one week before your session. You can see full package details on the investment page.
I provide wraps, headbands, and neutral setups in the studio, so you don’t need to buy anything special. If you have a family heirloom — a blanket, a special outfit — feel free to bring it along and we’ll incorporate it. For parents and siblings, simple, comfortable outfits in soft, coordinating colors photograph beautifully.
The studio is based in New Richmond, WI, and I regularly photograph families from Hudson, Stillwater, and across the Twin Cities metro. If you’re not sure whether you’re in range, just reach out — I’m happy to talk through it.
Ready to talk through dates and details? Get in touch here, or read more about how I keep babies safe and comfortable and my editing style on the blog.
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Newborn, Maternity, & Family Photography
Alabaster Photos has a portrait studio in New Richmond, WI.
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