Camp Hill Newborn Photos: Should You Include Siblings?

01.26.24

Bringing a new baby into your family is such a different experience when you already have children compared to when it’s your first baby. On one hand, you already have a lot of essentials at home like furniture, but on the other hand, there are so many new considerations to plan for and think about like preparing your children for the new baby. One of these considerations is your Camp Hill newborn photos.

If your baby will have a big brother or sister, should you include these siblings in your newborn portraits? What can you expect if you do? As your trusted neighborhood photographer, I’m happy to shed some light.

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Should You Include Your Baby’s Siblings in Their Camp Hill Newborn Photos?

Ultimately, this is purely a matter of preference and it’s a question each family has to decide for themselves. However many of my clients do decide to capture sibling portraits and portraits of the entire family together. Sibling portraits often become parents’ favorites among their newborn photos!

Including your baby’s siblings is a way to capture a look at the one-of-a-kind bond between your little ones from their earliest days. The experience of taking newborn portraits with your baby and their big brothers or sisters can also be a bonding experience in itself, demonstrating to your older kids that you’re all welcoming this new baby together as a family.

What Does it Look Like to Include Siblings in Newborn Portraits?

If your baby’s siblings are over 5 years old, we may be able to include their portraits in your baby’s studio newborn session. For kids under 5, though, or those who might prefer having space to run around, I offer a sibling add-on session. This session will take place in your home within a week of your baby’s studio newborn session. It gives your children the opportunity to be comfortable in their environment and makes the sibling portraits smoother for the whole family.

Will You Miss Out on Solo Baby Portraits if You Include Siblings in Your Camp Hill Newborn Photos?

Don’t worry, if you opt for sibling portraits, you’ll still have plenty of newborn photos of your baby on their own. This is the primary focus of every newborn photography session. Either way, you’ll also have plenty of portraits of your newborn with both parents and each parent separately.

Planning Your Camp Hill Newborn Photos

Every member of your family has their special bond with your new baby. Newborn photography is all about capturing the beauty of these bonds and of this amazing time in your life. Whether or not you choose to add sibling portraits, I’m honored to preserve these memories for your family. Contact Karissa Zimmer Photography to book your session.

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Choosing a Harrisburg Newborn Photographer: Why Your Photographer Matters

01.04.24

Newborn portraits are a special treasure for your family, and you only have one opportunity to capture these beautiful memories for your child. Every Harrisburg newborn photographer is unique, though, so the portraits and the experience will be different based on the photographer you choose. Let’s look at a few of the many reasons your choice of photographer matters.

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Well-Composed, Quality Photos

Your baby’s newborn photos are an investment - you’re creating family treasures that you’ll cherish for decades to come. You want those treasures to be high-quality! You need a photographer who has the experience and skill to create well-composed, professional photos.

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A Keen Aesthetic Style

Photography is an art form, so of course, the artist you hire needs to have a style you love for your baby’s portraits. The camera settings, the framing, the way each pose and set is designed - all of this will combine into the finished look.

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A Positive Experience with Your Harrisburg Newborn Photographer

Newborn sessions are multi-hour photo shoots, and that doesn’t even include the planning, ordering, and more - you want to enjoy the person you’re working with! The photographer you choose will affect your overall experience, not only because of how well you get along with the photographer but also because every photographer handles their planning and process differently.

Father holds baby girl for newborn photos near Harrisburg PA

Designing Display Products for Your Photos

Your choice of photographer will affect your portraits as well as what you ultimately do with those portraits. For example, I sit down with every client and help you plan, design, and order your wall art or other custom pieces to display your newborn photos. Each photographer handles the finished photos differently, with some sending digital files only.

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Choosing Your Harrisburg Newborn Photographer

You’re celebrating a beautiful new addition to your family, and you deserve to get stunning portraits with an enjoyable, attentive experience, and all of this will depend on your photographer. To find out if I’m the right fit for you, contact Karissa Zimmer Photography.

mother poses with newborn baby girl in Harrisburg newborn photography studio

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What to Expect in Your Camp Hill Newborn Photo Session

12.01.23

As a newborn photographer, I serve clients often who have never had a newborn photo session before. Any new experience can be intimidating, and a newborn photo shoot looks very different from family photos or other photo sessions you’ve had in the past. It helps to have an idea of what to expect. Here’s a peek at what to expect in a Camp Hill newborn photo session.

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How a Newborn Photo Session Works

During a newborn photo shoot, you and your spouse or partner will bring your little bundle of joy to my cozy home studio. Based on the details we discussed in our pre-session consultation, I’ll have a plan for what newborn props and sets I’ll use, what wraps, outfits, and accessories I’ll dress your baby in, and so on. You just show up looking camera-ready!

I typically begin with the photos of you and your partner with your baby, creating those precious portraits that highlight the deep bond you have with your new little one. After that, you and your partner can relax on the comfy furniture I have in my studio. I’ll spend the rest of the session gently posing your baby and creating the looks you love for your baby’s portraits. I’ll call on you as needed to feed or soothe your baby, but for most of the session, you can kick back and rest.

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How Long a Camp Hill Newborn Photo Session Takes

Newborn photo sessions run on the baby’s timetable! Whenever your baby needs to take a break for a feeding or to fuss for a bit, we stop and give them what they need. Because of this, expect your session to last about six hours.

Planning Your Camp Hill Newborn Photo Session

Hopefully, your newborn photo session feels a bit less intimidating now that you know the basics of what to expect. If you’re expecting a baby or even if your baby has already arrived, contact Karissa Zimmer Photography to book your session.

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Why Book a Session for Cake Smash Photos in Camp Hill PA

09.02.23

Your baby’s first year is one of the most unique and incredible experiences of life, getting to know your new child and watching them discover the world. If you want to do something truly special to mark the occasion, what about cake smash photos in Camp Hill PA? A cake smash session is a beautiful gift for both yourself and your child, giving you both a fun and exciting experience along with portraits you’ll always treasure.

Why is a cake smash session the perfect first birthday gift? I’ll tell you!

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Celebrate a Once-in-a-Lifetime Milestone

Your baby only turns one year old once! This is a fabulous milestone to celebrate - it’s the transition from infancy to toddlerhood, and before you know it, your baby will be walking and talking like a pro. Celebrating with a party is great, and you can still throw a party, but cake smash photos create a gift that will become an heirloom for the whole family to enjoy.

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Participate in the Fun Tradition of Cake Smash Photos in Camp Hill PA

Cake smash photography is a tradition that families throughout the US have loved and it only seems to be growing in popularity. Think of it as a more lasting version of the tradition of everyone gathering around to watch your baby playfully dig into their first birthday cake…with the benefit of a professional photographer.

Baby eats cake at First Birthday Cake Smash Photography session — Cake Smash Photoshoot in Camp Hill Baby Photography Studio

Get Portraits Full of Personality

One year is such a fun age for babies. Their little personality is starting to develop and shine through, so every day feels like a new discovery. That makes cake smash photos even better because you can capture those precious giggles and quirks on camera. I can even style your baby’s cake smash session to fit your child’s personality and your family’s style so it’s a true memento of this time in your family’s life.

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Booking Your Cake Smash Photos in Camp Hill PA

Have a beautiful baby that’s nearing their first birthday? Let’s chat about a cake smash session! Book your cake smash photography today.

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Camp Hill Baby Photography studio First Birthday Photos

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Summer Outdoor Family Photos in Mechanicsburg PA: How to Stay Cool

07.27.23

Summer has arrived, and for many local families, this is the perfect time for outdoor family photos in Mechanicsburg. The kids are out of school, there are plenty of daylight hours - it’s perfect for portraits you can treasure for years. There’s one problem, though: the heat can make a photo session uncomfortable. Not to worry, because I have some tricks! Use these tips to stay cool for your summer photo session.

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Keep the Session Moving

This is the most important tip of all: be prepared to keep the photo session moving. Kids have short attention spans, and that’s especially true when they’re getting too warm. That’s why I try to make all family sessions brief while still allowing for the time we need to get beautiful photos. While I’ll take care of most of the pacing, I advise parents to be ready to get started as soon as you arrive.

Brother and sister outdoor family photography near 17055

Try a Portable Fan for Your Outdoor Family Photos in Mechanicsburg

Handheld, portable battery-powered fans can be lifesavers for any parent in the summer. Bring one of these little fans and feel free to pull it out every so often during your session to cool off your kids (and yourself).

Choose Breathable Outfits

As you’re planning the family’s wardrobe for your portraits, make sure the outfits are set up with summer in mind. Go for light, airy fabrics like linen. Lighter colors will help you to stay cool too. Ideally, choose items that don’t show sweat easily and are loose enough to allow for airflow.

Booking Your Outdoor Family Photos in Mechanicsburg Today

The summer will be over before we know it! If you want to make time for family portraits this summer, contact Karissa Zimmer Photography today and let’s book your photo session. I'll work with you to plan a photo shoot the whole family will love.

Baby girl at Outdoor Family Photoshoot in Mechanicsburg PA

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Camp Hill Family Photography Tips: Summer Family Photo Outfits

05.25.23

Summer is a fantastic time for Camp Hill family photography. The weather and the scenery are absolutely gorgeous, and with the kids out of school (and school sports), many families have more flexible schedules. If you have a summer family portrait session in the plans, though, what should you and your family wear?

Outfit planning is among the top questions my clients ask, and I’m happy to help. Check out these tips.

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Choose Neutral Colors That Complement Green

One of the reasons so many people love taking family photos in the summer is that the landscape is lush with beautiful plant life. While there are many places around Camp Hill that make for fantastic photo backgrounds, in most cases, you’ll have plenty of beautiful green scenery in the background. For that reason, choose colors that complement green.

Airy and soft neutrals like white and cream work excellently for summer. Variations of blue often look beautiful with these neutrals, and blush pink is a popular choice too. It’s usually best to avoid greens as they may clash with the background greenery.

Wear Multiple Textures for Your Camp Hill Family Photography

Textures can add dimension and visual interest to any family’s portraits. In the cooler months, you might do this with layers and scarves or other accessories. In the summer, try choosing outfits that have multiple textures. A dress with a lace overlay, for example, can be beautiful for Mom, and denim pants look excellent when paired with linen shirts.

family photography in flowers in Camp Hill PA — Outdoor Family Photography

Consider Floral Prints

Floral prints are excellent for spring and summer, and they can serve as “anchor outfits” that you use to construct your color scheme. For example, Mom can wear a floral dress and the rest of the family’s outfits can pull colors from that floral pattern.

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Planning Your Camp Hill Family Photography Session

Take advantage of the beautiful summer ahead with a special family photo session - I’d be happy to help! Contact my Camp Hill PA photo studio today and let’s start planning.

Father and baby boy at family photoshoot near Camp Hill — Father and son photos near Camp Hill

Camp Hill PA Family Photo session — Father and son photos near Camp Hill

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Carlisle PA Sitter Session Outfits: What You Need to Know

04.27.23

Sitter session photography can create some of the most beautiful, treasured baby portraits you will ever have. Your baby is more alert than they were at their newborn session, able to engage with the session more and showcase their adorable budding personality. But, as with any photo session, parents always have one question for a Carlisle PA sitter session: what should we wear?

6 month old baby boy photographed by baby photographer karissa zimmer — Carlisle Baby Photography Session

Tips for Planning Your Baby’s Sitter Session Outfits

Planning your baby’s sitter session outfits might be easier than you think! If you have a session in the books, follow these tips.

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Find Out What Your Carlisle PA Sitter Session Photographer Provides

First things first, when it comes to wardrobe, talk to your photographer and find out what they have available. I have a well-stocked client closet so I can provide all the outfits and accessories you need for your sitter session! You can just come with your baby and your diaper bag.

Some families still want to bring some outfit options of their own too, and if you do, the rest of these tips can help.

big sister and baby brother on white at studio portrait session — Baby boy and big sister photoshoot

sibling studio photography by karissa zimmer photography — Baby boy and big sister photoshoot

Consider the Overall Looks for the Session

Before your photo shoot, I’ll take some time with you to plan and style your session, including the looks and themes you want to incorporate. Whether you’re envisioning a particular theme, a vintage aesthetic, a feminine look, or something classic and timeless, I’ll design your session in a way that captures the look you want along with my artistic style.

If you’re planning to bring some outfits or accessories to add to the selection for the photo shoot, keep that planning conversation in mind. Choose items that align well with the looks we’re going for.

baby boy wearing blue studio photography

Go for Snug Over Loose

It’s common to buy clothes that are slightly big on your baby because they grow so quickly, and that’s a great strategy for your home wardrobe…but not for a photo session. It’s better to choose pieces that fit your baby well and aren’t too loose on them. Otherwise, the items won’t lay as nicely and will be constantly moving around and needing to be adjusted during the photo shoot.

P.S., here’s a bonus tip: always have your baby try on the outfits you’re bringing to your sitter session a few days in advance. You always want to know for sure how they’ll fit rather than making your best guess.

6 month old baby boy in box prop photography — Carlisle PA baby photographer

When in Doubt, Go Neutral

For any baby photography (or any photography in general), you can’t go wrong with neutrals. Every baby looks great in white!

If you don’t go for neutrals, stick with pastels and items that aren’t overly attention-grabbing. Avoid bold patterns, bright colors, and anything else that could take attention away from your baby, unless we’re purposely incorporating a particular look or color scheme that we’ve discussed in your planning session.

Don’t Stress About Your Carlisle PA Sitter Session Outfits - I’ve Got You!

You have a big job at home: raising that adorable little one of yours. Please don’t add to your stress by trying to find beautiful sitter session outfits! I have everything you need. If you have items you love and want to bring to the session, that’s great, but if not, I have enough items to create a beautiful and truly special sitter session for your baby.

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Booking Your Carlisle PA Sitter Session

Sitter session photography is an opportunity to get stunning baby photos at this fun time in your baby’s developmental journey, and I’m honored to make this happen for families throughout the Carlisle, Mechanicsburg, and Harrisburg areas. Contact Karissa Zimmer Photography today to book your sitter session and start planning the baby portraits of your dreams.

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Camp Hill PA Newborn Photos: Choosing a Color Palette

04.18.23

You only get to take beautiful newborn photos of your baby once, and you want them to be truly stunning. Every gorgeous newborn picture starts the same way: with excellent planning. As a photographer who specializes in Camp Hill PA newborn photos, I love working with families to plan their newborn sessions in a way that celebrates their beautiful new babies. Details like your color palette will make a difference.

How do you choose that color palette? I’ve got you covered.

Studio newborn photos on orange backdrop — Camp Hill Newborn Photography Session

newborn baby girl on orange studio portrait — Camp Hill Newborn Photography Session

Tips for Choosing a Color Palette for Your Camp Hill PA Newborn Photos

As your trusted neighborhood photographer, I’m happy to help you pick the perfect colors for your baby’s portraits. Keep these tips in mind.

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baby girl on green backdrop in Camp Hill newborn studio — Newborn Photography Studio near Camp Hill PA

Decide Where You’ll Display Your Portraits

I’m all about giving families tangible portraits they can hang on their walls and enjoy every day. While you’ll love your baby’s newborn photos no matter what, you’ll love them even more if they complement the room where you hang them. Think about where and how you want to display your baby’s portraits and consider what colors in the portraits will best suit the colors and decor in that room.

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Consider a Cultural Homage

A wonderful way to honor your cultural heritage is to incorporate colors into your newborn session that are special to your culture. Maybe they are colors that signify renewal or simply are central to your culture, but either way, I’m happy to bring in your cultural aesthetic.

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You’ll Never Go Wrong with Neutrals

It’s true, neutrals are always an excellent choice for your Camp Hill PA newborn photos. Every baby looks beautiful in white or shades of tan and brown!

Talk to Your Photographer

As a photographer, I’m not just there for my clients during their photo shoot. I’m here to support you through the entire process, and that includes offering my expertise in the planning. I’m happy to make color recommendations based on my experience.

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Booking Your Camp Hill PA Newborn Photos

Ready to start planning your magical newborn photos? I’m here to help! Contact Karissa Zimmer Photography today.

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Is Harrisburg Sitter Session Photography Worth It?

04.14.23

When you have a beautiful baby at home, calling it “love” doesn’t feel descriptive enough. You’re *obsessed* with your new little one and you absolutely adore watching them grow and discover the world around them. If you want to preserve the memories of this exciting time of life, Harrisburg sitter session photography is a great way to do that.

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What Is Sitter Session Photography?

Sitter session photography is a photo session that occurs while your baby is confidently sitting up on their own but isn’t yet crawling confidently. This generally happens around 6-9 months of age.

Benefits of Sitter Session Photography

Why do we choose this particular time in a baby’s first year to take portraits? There are several benefits, actually.

Preserve a Beautiful Developmental Stage

Your baby’s sitter stage is such a fun time in their infancy! With sitting up, they can be more engaged with you and with everything around them, and it’s such a joy to watch their little eyes take it all in.

Flexible Posing Options

A large part of why sitter session photography is so popular is its practicality. We can get a much better variety of poses and portrait options because your baby can sit up on their own and look at the camera. However, they haven’t yet hit the point when they’re mobile and wanting to explore. The sitter stage is a perfect opportunity to get precious baby photos you’ll love for decades without having to chase your baby around the studio.

Capture the First Hints of Baby’s Personality

Compared to their newborn days, your baby is showing so much more personality in their sitter stage! You’re starting to see some of their little mannerisms, expressions, and quirks. Now is a great time to capture those on camera so you can look back on them when your child is older and see when that sweet personality started.

So…Is Harrisburg Sitter Session Photography Worth It?

What’s the verdict? Every family has to answer that for themselves, but for many, the answer is a resounding “yes,” sitter session photography is worth it! To get the ball rolling, contact my Harrisburg photo studio today and let’s chat!

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Your Harrisburg Studio Newborn Photography Questions Answered

03.23.23

Newborn portraits are one of the most precious treasures for so many parents. Your baby is only this tiny once, and only for a short time, so these portraits forever preserve the magic of those first weeks with your little bundle of joy. If you’re growing your family, I’m happy to help not only by taking your newborn photos but answering your questions and helping you know what to expect. Check out these answers to your top Harrisburg studio newborn photography questions.

How Is Harrisburg Studio Newborn Photography Different from Lifestyle Newborn Photography?

There are two types of newborn photo sessions: studio sessions and lifestyle sessions. Studio sessions are performed, of course, in my professional portrait studio. The focus is largely on your baby, with Mom and Dad included in a few portraits as well. These are the cozy posed portraits you see most often. A lifestyle session, on the other hand, is taken at your home and focuses more on your family as a whole. If you enjoy both types of sessions, though, you can have both!

Why Do Poses and Portraits Vary So Much from One Baby to the Next?

There are a few reasons for this. First of all, every family is unique and I want to create portraits that speak to their sense of style and suit their home. Second, it’s always a question of what the baby will allow. Your baby guides the session, and some babies are more comfortable in certain types of poses compared to others. Ultimately, your newborn portraits will be one-of-a-kind for your child and your family.

Why Is Harrisburg Studio Newborn Photography Expensive?

It’s true that newborn photography tends to be pricier than most other types of photo sessions like family portraits and senior portraits. This is because newborn photo sessions take longer, allowing time for your baby to settle and fall asleep as needed. Newborn photography also requires specialized training in baby safety and posing for newborns, as well as certain equipment like cushions, wraps, white noise machines or other items for helping babies to sleep, and so on.

Booking Your Harrisburg Studio Newborn Photography Session

Ready to book your own studio newborn photo session? Contact Karissa Zimmer Photography and let’s chat!

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