Now is the Time to Book Your Central Pennsylvania Maternity Photos for the Summer!

02.07.24

It’s cold and wintery in Pennsylvania right now, so it’s refreshing to look back on this stunning maternity photo shoot in Gettysburg last summer and to think ahead to the warm, sunny summer maternity photos to come. It’s also the perfect time for me to remind you: now is the perfect time to book your central Pennsylvania maternity photos for the summer!

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Why Book Your Central Pennsylvania Maternity Photos Early

January may seem early to be thinking about summer maternity photos, but trust me, it’s the perfect time! If you’ll be in the late stages of your pregnancy in the summer, there are several reasons to schedule and start planning your summer maternity portraits now.

Find Availability for Your Preferred Date

Simply put, my schedule fills up quickly! The cycle of life never stops so I photograph newborn, maternity, and baby photos all year round. The summer, though, is also a popular time for my clients to schedule family photos and senior portraits. I only accept a limited number of photo sessions each month so I can give every client the personalized attention and custom service you deserve, so my books fill up early. Now is the best time to schedule if you want to have options during the ideal time in your pregnancy for maternity portraits.

Start Planning Early for Summer Central Pennsylvania Maternity Photos

Every client I work with is different, but many moms-to-be love planning the outfits and fun details of their maternity photos! All of this, though, will depend on where and when your photo shoot will be. Booking your session now will allow you to set those details so you can start thinking about the fun aspects of your session.

Move On with Other Projects

While maternity photography is something many women look forward to, figuring out the logistics like the scheduling can be stressful. You have a lot on your plate during this exciting time! Booking your maternity session early lets you get the logistics set and out of the way so you can move on with your to-do list.

Book Your Summer Central Pennsylvania Maternity Photos Today

Let’s start planning your dream maternity portraits together! Contact Karissa Zimmer Photography to book your session.

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Tips for Your Harrisburg Winter Maternity Photo Session

12.20.23

Unless you have meticulous planning and a lot of luck on your side, you can’t choose the season for your maternity portraits. You’re at the ideal point in your pregnancy for maternity photos for only a short time, and that will fall at whatever time of the year that it falls. Here’s the good news: a skilled maternity photographer can make your portraits stunning in any season! That includes your Harrisburg winter maternity photo session.

What can you do to make your winter maternity session even better? I’ve got you! Follow these top tips.

Best Maternity Photography near Harrisburg

1. Embrace Wintery Accessories

Winter is the perfect time to play with some gorgeous accessories for your maternity photos. Think luxurious scarves, fur or faux fur wraps, couture gloves, and so on. Not only are these the peak of winter fashion but they’ll keep you warmer during your session. They add fabulous texture to your portraits too, making for more dimension and calling more attention to your gorgeous self.

winter maternity photography near Harrisburg PA

2. Moisturize and Hydrate Before Your Harrisburg Winter Maternity Photo Session

We all know our skin tends to be dry in the winter, thanks to the dry winter air and the drying effect of heaters. When you’re taking portraits, though, hydration is your friend. Hydrated, moisturized skin is brighter, smoother, glowier, and even younger-looking! In the week before your maternity photo session, make sure you’re drinking plenty of water as well as moisturizing your skin.

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3. Bring Warming Items for In Between Shots

This isn’t a must, but if you choose, you can bring some extra items for warmth that you can use in between poses and shots. This could include hand warmers and feet warmers, gloves, blankets, and so on. Regardless of whether you bring these items, though, I’ll always be mindful of your comfort and aim to work quickly while creating all the lovely winter portraits you love.

4. Discuss Logistics for Your Harrisburg Winter Maternity Photo Session

Choosing a fantastic location is always important for outdoor photography, but it’s even more essential for outdoor winter maternity photography. Not only do we want a location that has the aesthetic look you want but we want that location to be practical too (you won’t want to hike half a mile into the woods when it’s 20 degrees out). Don’t worry, I’ve been taking outdoor winter portraits for years and I have a well-planned list of the perfect winter photo shoot sites. As we plan your maternity photo session together, we’ll talk about which location will best suit all of your needs.

Maternity portraits in winter near Harrisburg PA

5. Be Open to Recommendations and Flexibility Due to the Weather

Some moms-to-be have specific visions in mind when they picture their winter maternity photos. Maybe you want a certain type of landscape in the background or you want a nice snow covering on the ground. I love it when my clients are already dreaming of their photos. Just keep in mind, though, that you may need to be flexible with your timing if we need to adjust your photo session for the weather, either to create the look you want or to make sure we can all be safe on the roads.

mom to be poses at outdoor winter maternity photo session near Harrisburg pa

6. Wear Winter-Friendly Footwear

In most winter maternity photo shoots, we stick with long, flowy maternity gowns so you won’t see your feet. If you do have a pair of shoes or boots you want in your portraits, though, I’m happy to make that happen. I just suggest that you wear winter boots to walk to the photo shoot location and only bring those beautiful shoes or boots along so you can wear them as little as possible. This helps you stay safe on the wintery ground and keeps those featured shoes from getting too dirty.

7. Try to Relax

When the weather is cold, many of us unintentionally tense our bodies against the cold. This can make you look stiff in portraits, and we want to showcase what an effortless beauty you are. As much as possible, try to relax your body and allow me to guide your posing.

Booking Your Harrisburg Winter Maternity Photo Session

Dreaming of gorgeous, wintery maternity portraits? Let’s get started! Contact Karissa Zimmer Photography today to book your session.

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A Mechanicsburg Outdoor Fall Maternity Photography Shoot: Pros and Cons of Outdoor Maternity Portraits

03.07.23

Have a baby on the way? Congratulations! Maternity photography is a phenomenal way to celebrate this one-of-a-kind stage in your family’s life, honor your body for the beautiful work it’s doing, and create mementos you will forever treasure. What type of maternity photo session is the best fit for you? Should you book a Mechanicsburg outdoor fall maternity photography shoot?

All of my maternity photo shoots take place on location, either at an outdoor location we can choose together like a local park or, for a more intimate setting, at your home. Both types of sessions have the potential for absolutely stunning and meaningful maternity portraits; it’s just a matter of your personal preference. To help you decide, let’s look at some of the pros and cons of outdoor maternity shoots.

Outdoor Maternity Portraits — Mechanicsburg Outdoor Maternity Photography

Pro: Beautiful Natural Scenery for Mechanicsburg Outdoor Fall Maternity Photography (or Spring or Summer)

I have the honor of living in an area with incredible natural beauty and with pronounced seasons that each have their own look, and I love taking advantage of this for my client’s benefit. You can have effortlessly gorgeous backgrounds in your photos.

The look of your outdoor portraits will depend on the location we choose, and I’m here to help. You and I can choose a location together based on the aesthetic you want for your portraits and the season when your session will take place. I have plenty of location recommendations around Mechanicsburg, whether you want vibrant fall colors, open green space, misty lakes, or even an outdoor urban look.

Con: Difficulty Taking Semi-Nude Portraits

Some moms-to-be love those semi-nude maternity portraits that showcase their baby bump in all its glory and celebrate their body for the incredible work it’s doing. These often turn out to be my clients’ favorite portraits in their collections, and rightfully so!

Taking these intimate portraits outdoors can be a bit uncomfortable for some women, though. Depending on the season, you might be physically uncomfortable and self-conscious as well about being partially undressed outside. Some moms-to-be prefer a photo session at home for these types of portraits.

Pro: Create Special Family Memories

An outdoor maternity session is more than just a means to an end for getting the maternity portraits you want. It’s an adventure! An outdoor photo session gives you and your family a chance to enjoy a new experience together in a park or other fun spot.

This is especially fantastic if you have other children you’re bringing into the portraits too. Your family gets the opportunity to not only create beautiful portraits but to make new memories together at the same time.

Con: Potential Weather-Related Challenges for Mechanicsburg Outdoor Fall Maternity Photography

The same thing that makes outdoor portraits gorgeous is the thing that makes them unpredictable: the outdoors. Natural landscapes are lovely but you never know for sure what the weather will do. There’s always a risk that you’ll need to reschedule or make accommodations for rain, strong winds, or other weather changes.

Pro: No Need to Prep Your Home

Lifestyle portraits at your home are always unique and special, and I tell all my clients that your home doesn’t need to be spotless by any means. Still, it can be stressful for some moms-to-be to have a photo shoot in their home, and some women just don’t think their home will be very photogenic. Maybe you’re still working on your baby’s nursery or other projects around the house and you don’t feel like it’s camera-ready. For some families, it’s just more comfortable to take their portraits elsewhere.

Con: Wardrobe Limitations

Some clients who come to me have been dreaming of their maternity portraits for months and have an idea in their mind of the exact wardrobe they want to wear. I love when clients are excited about their portraits! It’s important to keep in mind, though, that for outdoor portraits, your wardrobe will depend on the weather. For instance, for Mechanicsburg outdoor fall maternity photography, you’ll need to wear something fall-appropriate so that your outfit aligns with the fall aesthetic (and so you’re comfortable, of course).

Creating the Mechanicsburg Outdoor Fall Maternity Photography of Your Dreams

I love working with moms-to-be who are thrilled to celebrate their pregnancy and this special time in their lives with maternity portraits. Contact Karissa Zimmer Photography today and let’s start planning your dream photo shoot!

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Harrisburg Maternity Portrait Tips for Couples

01.31.23

If you ever want to get a mom to chat, ask her about her pregnancy experience and she’ll have hours’ worth of stories to tell. Pregnancy is a stage of life that is so unlike any other, between the experience of the pregnancy itself and the anticipation of knowing you’ll soon meet the child who will change your life forever. That’s why your Harrisburg maternity portrait will become such a treasured heirloom.

While the mom-to-be is, of course, the star of maternity portraits, many couples want to include both partners in some of their photos to celebrate their growing family together. How do you make those couple maternity portraits truly spectacular? On top of hiring a photographer who specializes in maternity portraits, use these top tips.

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Choose an Aesthetic That Feels Genuine for Your Harrisburg Maternity Portrait Session

Your maternity portraits should be a celebration of you and your family, so you’ll notice that every maternity photo shoot looks different. Some have a dramatic look, others are bright and airy, some have a very earthy, nature-focused vibe, some are more conventional, and so on.

You want an aesthetic for your portraits that feels authentic to you as a couple. Take some time to think about what aesthetic style you want for your portraits and pick out some examples from your photographer’s gallery that reflect the look you like. During consultations with my Harrisburg maternity portrait clients, I chat with them about their vision and design a session that centers around them.

Communicate Your Comfort Level

You may be aware that in maternity photo shoots, it’s very common to have some level of nudity. There may be portraits in which the parents are shirtless together, or the mom-to-be may be fully nude with flowy fabrics covering select areas, for example. This is a popular look because it highlights the majestic beauty of pregnancy.

As beautiful as nude and semi-nude portraits can be, not everyone is comfortable showing this much skin, and that is perfectly fine. If you’ll both be in your maternity portraits, let your photographer know what each of you is and is not comfortable with.

Choose Outfits Together

Planning outfits can be challenging for a photo shoot, and the more people are involved, the more strategic you need to be. As you’re planning outfits for your maternity portrait session, make sure you and your partner choose outfits that coordinate with each other, rather than each of you choosing outfits separately. Make sure your outfits fit the overall aesthetic you’re going for. I’m happy to look over the outfits you’re considering and offer suggestions. When in doubt, it never hurts to bring extra options!

Focus on Each Other

One of the reasons I love featuring couples in maternity portraits is the opportunity to capture the love between them and the excitement of growing their family. During your maternity photo session, try not to think about the camera and the photos. As your photographer poses you and has you gazing at the baby bump or looking into your partner’s eyes, think about the love of your life and the new baby you have on the way.

When you bring your mindset back to this love and excitement, it shows in your eyes and your authentic smile. You’ll be thrilled when you see how all that emotion comes out in your portraits, and the portraits will be an even more special memento of the way you felt during this time in your life.

Creating Magical Harrisburg Maternity Portraits for Couples

Great maternity portraits for you and your partner start and end with an excellent photographer who knows maternity photography and knows how to capture your genuine joy. As a Harrisburg maternity portrait photographer, I’d be thrilled to help you and your partner preserve this incredible time in your lives with custom photography.

To book your maternity session or to learn more about the process, contact Karissa Zimmer Photography today and let’s get started.

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Harrisburg PA Lifestyle Newborn Photography vs. Studio Newborn Photography

09.09.22

In the midst of sleep deprivation and the constant cycle of feedings, your baby’s first days might feel like an eternity in the moment. Trust me when I say, though, that this stage will be over in the blink of an eye, and you’ll want every reminder of it that you can find. That’s why you want your baby’s newborn portraits to be perfect. It all starts with planning the best type of newborn photo session for you, so that brings us to this common question: should you book a Harrisburg PA lifestyle newborn photography or studio newborn photography session?

As a specialized newborn photographer, I’ve guided countless families through the journey of creating their timeless newborn portraits. I’m happy to help you understand the difference between these two types of newborn photo sessions and decide which one is best for you.

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What Is Lifestyle Newborn Photography?

Lifestyle newborn photography is a unique type of newborn portrait session that’s all about authenticity and candid moments. We take these photos within your home environment and, instead of traditional poses, we focus more on capturing genuine moments between you and your new bundle of joy.

What’s the Difference Between Lifestyle and Studio Newborn Photography?

Lifestyle photography and studio photography differ in the location of the photo shoot and in the content and feel. While a studio newborn portrait session takes place in our photography studio, a lifestyle portrait session takes place at your home – typically within your nursery but we can take advantage of other picturesque areas too.

In addition to this difference, studio newborn photos focus more on traditional poses, as your baby swaddled in a wrap on a cozy blanket background. A lifestyle photo session is meant to feel more like snapshots of your loving life with your new baby.

Benefits of Lifestyle Newborn Portraits

A Harrisburg PA lifestyle newborn photography session offers several unique benefits for growing families. First, these photos tend to feel more personalized because they have a backdrop no one can replicate: your home.

Second, they give you the convenience of staying at your own home. There’s no need to pack up your baby and the million items they need like pacifiers and diapers. Third, in the years to come when you look back on your photos, they’ll have the added joy of bringing back not only your baby’s newborn days but all the memories you’ve made in that nursery ever since.

Benefits of Studio Newborn Portraits

While lifestyle newborn photography has its advantages, studio newborn photography does too. First, because you’re coming to the studio, there’s no need to worry about having your nursery picture-ready.

Second, studio portraits give your photographer complete control over the environment. My studio is set up to allow for completely customized lighting and other factors that make it easy to create the exact look you want. Third, while there’s a limit to the equipment and items I can bring to a lifestyle photo session, my studio has everything we could need for your baby’s portraits so it’s an optimized set-up.

Another Option: Combining Lifestyle and Studio Newborn Photography

Can’t decide between lifestyle and studio photography for your newborn? You can have both! I offer the option to book a studio newborn session as well as a lifestyle add-on session at your home.

In fact, if your baby has older siblings under age 5 and you want portraits of that special bond, it’s best to keep the siblings at home during the studio session and book a sibling lifestyle add-on session. This way, you still get treasured lifestyle portraits and sibling portraits but you don’t have the struggle of managing your kids during the studio session which can last up to six hours.

Studio session as primary newborn session & then lifestyle add-on

Scheduling Your Harrisburg PA Lifestyle Newborn Photography or Studio Newborn Photography

Your newborn portraits are all about creating one-of-a-kind heirlooms you and your family can cherish for generations, and that starts with choosing the perfect type of photo session to suit your family. Not sure which one is best for you? I can help! Contact my photography studio today to chat about your options and book your session.

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Maternity Photo Ideas for Your Harrisburg Maternity Photos

04.30.22

When you’re getting ready for a new baby, there are so many items on your to-do list, from items to buy or assemble to ways to protect your health, but your Harrisburg maternity photos are so much more than another item to check off your list. Your maternity portraits should be unique to you, celebrating your growing family and the magic within you. But how do you make your maternity photos feel personal and genuine?

As a maternity photographer, I have plenty of ways to customize every maternity session but I also let my clients guide the specifics and decide what they want from their session. If you’re trying to decide how to make your maternity photoshoot special, try these ideas.

Nursery Portraits

One of the most fun parts of preparing for your baby is getting the nursery ready in your home. So why not incorporate that beautiful nursery into your maternity photos? It’s a special way to capture just how excited you are to meet your little one, and as your child grows up and forms memories in their room, it will be such a joy for them to look back and see that you felt the warmth of this special room too.

Outdoor Harrisburg Maternity Photos

Harrisburg is full of gorgeous outdoor locations where you can take stunning maternity portraits. You just have to look in the right places! I have a few favorites like local parks and green spaces, but you might also have some spots in town that you love too. It’s even better if there’s a beautiful background that also means something to you and your family, like a park where you enjoy a run every morning or a site where you host a family barbecue each summer.

Maternity Photos in Your Own Yard

Some of my clients have trouble deciding between the idyllic beauty of an outdoor photoshoot or the intimacy and personalization of an at-home photoshoot. Why not do both and have your maternity photo session outside your home? I can capture amazing scenes by posing you with pillars or columns on your porch, in the greenery of your yard, alongside the flowers and trees in your landscaping, and so on.

Windswept Maternity Gowns

Truth be told, I know that many women feel insecure about their looks while they’re pregnant. Your body changes so much in such a short period of time, and in ways that you’ve probably never experienced before. But the fact is that a loving mom-to-be looks absolutely breathtaking and gorgeously feminine. Nothing highlights the majesty and beauty of your pregnancy like a flowy maternity gown that flows in the wind.

Charming Historic Harrisburg Maternity Photos

Along with plenty of outdoor backdrops, Harrisburg has plenty of lovely photo opportunities with a historical aesthetic too. There are Harrisburg neighborhoods full of old-world charm, and there are plenty of historic homes and buildings in the area that could also add an exquisite look to your maternity photos. Of course, if you prefer a more modern or urban aesthetic, Harrisburg has no shortage of these scenes too.

Sentimental Elements

As I mentioned, your maternity photos should be personalized to fit you and your family. One of the best ways to do this is to incorporate some elements that are particularly sentimental to you. Maybe there’s a necklace that’s a family heirloom, for example, and you can have a portrait with this necklace draped over your baby bump.

Or, you can incorporate special hobbies and passions in your life that you plan to share with your baby, like reading, playing an instrument, or knitting a blanket for your bundle of joy. Your child will love looking back on these portraits as they grow up and see how excited you were to share these treasures with them.

Scheduling Your Harrisburg Maternity Photos Today

If these ideas have kicked your creativity into high gear and you’re excited to start planning your personalized maternity photo session, it’s not too early to start planning! If you’re expecting a little one, call my photo studio today to schedule your Harrisburg maternity photos.

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How to Prepare for Your Family Maternity Photos in Camp Hill

04.15.22

Congratulations on your pregnancy, Mama! For all its aches and pains, pregnancy is truly a beautiful time in your life and it’s the start of the most incredible journey. It will be over before you know it, so don’t miss your opportunity to preserve that pregnancy glow on a canvas with maternity portraits. For many moms who are expecting their second, third, or fourth (or later!) child, their pregnancy is a special shared experience for their family, so naturally, they want to include the whole family in their maternity pictures. I happen to love working with kids, so some of my favorite photos to take are family maternity photos in Camp Hill, PA!

You can get your photography session started on the right foot with a little preparation. Follow these tips for a magical family maternity portrait session.

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Have an Aesthetic in Mind

Moms are notorious for putting their kids first and themselves last, but your maternity photo session is ultimately about you! Think about how you want your portraits to look. Imagine where you want to display them in your home and what aesthetic you want to capture. As your hometown maternity photographer, I can take your vision and bring it to life by giving you personal guidance on color palettes and wardrobe ideas that will create the look you want.

Choose Your Dream Location for Your Family Maternity Photos in Camp Hill

Now that you have a vision in mind for your family maternity portraits, you want to choose the perfect backdrop for those pictures. Luckily for all of my clients planning family maternity photos in Camp Hill, PA, our area has countless gorgeous outdoor locations ripe for portraits. I have a few favorites that I’ll be happy to share during our consultation. Or, if you prefer, we can plan an indoor session in your home instead. Many of my clients opt for stunning photos within their baby’s nursery.

Plan a Bag of Tricks for Your Kids

We live in the age of social media, so you’ve probably snapped countless pictures of your kids at home. You know, then, how difficult it can be to coax a smile out of a young child at just the right time. Kids who are shy smilers tend to be just as shy during a professional photo session too.

You know your kids better than anyone so you know how to make them smile. Try bringing a “bag of tricks” like a puppet that always gets a giggle, a sound that makes them smile or gets their attention, or other tricks and tools to help me get plenty of shots of those heart-warming smiles.

Invest in Yourself!

Let’s all be honest: pregnancy is stressful. There’s always so much to do to prepare for your baby. For the day of your family maternity photos in Camp Hill, PA, though, you deserve to just relax and get pampered like the queen you are. Consider scheduling professional hair and makeup services so you can look your best without adding more work to your plate.

Consider Bringing a Helping Hand to Your Family Maternity Photos in Camp Hill

As much as you’ll love having maternity photos of your entire family, you’ll also want some portraits that specifically highlight you and your bond with your beloved baby, or you and your significant other. Trust me, the last thing you want to be doing is struggling to watch and discipline your kids while you’re posing for portraits.

You might think about bringing along someone like a friend, nanny, or grandparent to help keep an eye on the kiddos while you and your significant other are in front of the camera. Or, you could arrange for someone to pick up your kids when their photos are done and take them to a playdate until you’re done with your own photos.

Communicate with Your Photographer

This is a biggie! Remember that family maternity photos in Camp Hill, PA are what I do on a daily basis. I’m not just here to snap pictures – I’m here to make the entire process easy and stress-free for you while creating spectacular images you’ll treasure forever. Keep an open line of communication and let me know what you want from your session, what sentimental items you might want to incorporate, and so on. With your vision in mind, I can take it from there and create an experience you’ll lovingly remember throughout your baby’s life.

Schedule Your Family Maternity Photos in Camp Hill

Ready to take the leap and start planning your amazing family maternity photos? Call my Camp Hill, PA photography studio today to book your session and start building your dream with my help.

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Your Guide to Combining a Maternity and Family Photoshoot

02.18.22

Pregnancy is a time full of magic for any excited mom-to-be, but in some ways, it’s even better when you have other kids in the house too. Kids have the ability to experience the pure and genuine joy that’s unsullied by the worries of adulthood that are nagging under the surface for every parent-to-be. When you see that glee in your kids’ eyes as they think about their arriving baby brother or sister or when they feel the baby kick in your belly, it pushes those worries aside and reminds us all of the beauty of pregnancy. What better way to celebrate your pregnancy and the happiness it’s bringing to your family than with a maternity family photoshoot? As a family maternity photographer who has captured countless growing families over the years, I’m proud to share some insight into this experience and how you can get the most from your session.

outdoor family and maternity photographer captures images of a family of 3 before they become a family of 4

Why Incorporate the Family into a Maternity Photo Session?

In a maternity photo shoot, the star of the day is always the mom-to-be. After all, it’s your body that’s doing the wondrous work of creating a new baby, and we need to get that glorious glow on camera!

In a family pregnancy photoshoot, you and your baby bump are still the primary focus. We just add a few shots of your family into the mix. It’s a fantastic way to capture the last few weeks you’ll spend with your older kids alone before adding a new baby to the family. Including your kids in your maternity photos is also a great way to help them feel more involved in your pregnancy and in the new baby, encouraging them to develop more of a bond with the baby before their little sister or brother arrives.

Camp Hill Pa Family and Maternity Photographer captures a family together at their outdoor maternity photography session

family of 3 embraces at their maternity photography session

Tips for a Smoother Maternity Family Photoshoot with Kids

If you want to give your kids the gift of a family maternity shoot they’ll treasure as much as you do, there are plenty of ways you can make it a smoother, easier experience for everyone and a fun memory for your kids.

Give Everyone Time in the Spotlight

Over the years, I’ve seen that kids can have many different reactions to the idea of a baby sibling. Some are thrilled from day one and want to be involved in everything. Other times, kids are more hesitant. If you have a big-sibling-in-training who might have a hard time getting on board for a family maternity session, it can help to make sure each child feels special by giving them their own photos. This way, every child feels valued on their own and they’re more likely to fully participate in the photoshoot.

Coordinate Everyone’s Outfits

You already know that you and your loving kids go together like peas and carrots, but in your family maternity shoot, you want to create a visual cohesiveness too by coordinating everyone’s looks. All of my photo sessions are performed on location, either at your home or at an outdoor location. Think about where you’ll have your session and what colors will look best against those backgrounds. Not sure about the color scheme? I can help!

There are a few reminders to note as well. First, have a backup outfit for each person. Kids have a special knack for getting messy at the most inopportune times, especially if you’re having an outdoor photo shoot. Second, keep in mind that you can wear a few different outfits for your maternity portraits, and your family’s outfits only need to coordinate with one of them. Feel free to choose stunning maternity gowns in bold colors for your solo photos.

pregnant bother embraces her toddler son at her maternity and family photo session with karissa zimmer photography

Pack for Comfort

My family maternity sessions last for 1-2 hours, and they’re all done on location. If you choose a location other than your home, that means your family will be out of the house for up to two hours plus the time it takes to get there and get home.

Remember that while you’ll be busy striking gorgeous poses throughout the session, your kids will have some downtime while we’re taking your solo portraits. Plan ahead to bring anything your kids will need to be comfortable for those few hours. That could include toys, on-the-go games, snacks, drinks, blankets, diapers, and more.

Choose Your Photographer Wisely

As you’re looking for a photographer for your portraits, make sure you look for experienced family maternity photographers. Not all maternity photographers have experience working with kids. I’m proud to have spent years pulling together my bag tricks for working with kids. I’ve mastered the art of getting kids into every parent’s favorite poses, capturing candids of kids being themselves, and coaxing smiles out of even the most hesitant of faces.

family of 3 poses together at their family and maternity photography session with karissa zimmer photography

Planning Your Maternity Family Photoshoot

If you have a precious new baby on the way and you want to preserve this moment with your entire family, now is the time to book your session. Contact my photo studio today to get on the schedule and start planning this gift to yourself that you’ll treasure forever.

family and maternity photographer captures outdoor maternity photography images near camp hill pa

couple embraces during their outdoor maternity photoshoot with camp hill pa photographer

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Everything You Need to Know About a Newborn Session

02.02.21

Everything You Need to Know About a Newborn Session

When selecting a photographer, she will tell you everything you need to know about a newborn session! Every parent knows that kids grow up so fast. That’s why having photos of your children at every stage of their life is so important, especially when they’re newborns. Those images can help you remember years later just how small your little ones were.

As you’re getting ready to welcome a new addition to your family, take time to consider booking a newborn session to capture this amazing moment in your life. Not sure what a newborn photo shoot is like? That’s why I am here to help guide you through the process. I will teach you Everything You Need to Know About a Newborn Session!

new parents are photographed with newborn baby boy during posed newborn photography session with karissa zimmer photography

How old should my little one be for the photo session?

The best age for a newborn session is under two weeks, although I find the “sweet spot to be between days 7-10 of life. At that age, babies still spend a majority of their time sleeping and are easier to pose in those curled up positions everyone loves! When you’re scheduling your session, keep in mind that your newborn will grow VERY quickly and will look completely different at one month than they did at birth. As they grow, they’ll begin moving more. In those first few days they will be much more comfortable with posing, as well as less likely to remain asleep during the photo shoot.

newborn photographer karissa zimmer photographs new father with baby boy at his newborn photography session in camp hill pa

When should I book my session?

The earlier you can book your newborn session, the better! I recommend having your session reserved before the third trimester approaches if possible. Session times fill up fast, and since you only have a limited window of time in which to get the photos taken before baby gets too big, you want to be sure that your photographer is available.

everything you need to know about a newborn photography session in camp hill pa

What if my baby arrives earlier than expected?

Every newborn photographer knows that babies arrive when they’re ready. With that in mind, I book a very limited number of newborn sessions each month. This allows me to be flexible with early or late newborn arrivals. Once your session has been booked and reserved during your consultation, I will hold time around your scheduled session to make sure you and your little one get in for your photos.

new parents snuggle their newborn boy at photo session in camp hill pa

How long does a newborn session last?

Typically, a newborn photo shoot lasts several hours. If that sounds long, have no fear—you won’t be in front of the camera the whole time! A majority of that time will be spent feeding and soothing your newborn for photos. Each and every baby is different. Therefore, each session will take a different length of time. There certainly is no rushing a newborn session!

new father is photographed during photo session with karissa zimmer photography

How should I dress my newborn for photos?

Most newborn photography involves nude and swaddle wrapped portraits of your little one—the better to capture those tiny fingers and toes and their precious soft skin! Dress your baby in clothes that are easy to take off and put back on and that are loose enough it won’t leave marks on their skin.

newborn photographer karissa zimmer photography captures image of newborn boy with parents

What should I bring to my newborn session?

This is one of the most common questions we hear, and that’s because it’s so important! You’ll want to bring your whole diaper bag, of course. That means pacifiers, extra diapers and wipes, and formula and bottles, if you formula-feed. I alway suggest that you’ll also want to bring a change of clothes for yourself because posing in photos with a naked baby can lead to messiness! All props, wraps, bonnets and accessories are conveniently provided and coordinated for your baby’s session by yours truly!

Most importantly, ask me any questions you have about your session. And don’t be nervous! It’s my job to help you feel comfortable and get the images you want of this precious moment in the life of your family!

posed newborn baby boy on gray by camp hill newborn photographer

karissa zimmer photography captures images of posed newborn baby

newborn photographed by karissa zimmer photography in camp hill pa

newborn photography session in camp hill pa shows baby boy posed in blue and white bucked

newborn baby boy is posed during his newborn photo session with karissa zimmer photography

baby boy is wrapped and photographed by camp hill newborn photographer

Hi & Welcome to Karissa Zimmer Photography! I am a full service photography studio and I am proud to photograph expecting parents, newborn babies, children, families and high school seniors throughout Central PA including Camp Hill, Mechanicsburg, Harrisburg and surrounding areas. My style is classic, timeless and forever. My goal for each session is for you to leave with family keepsakes that you and your family will enjoy and share for generations to come. I will create beautiful fine art albums, custom framing and wall art made just for you, your family and your home. Your special memories are forever and I am so blessed to be a part of each and every one of my client’s lives.

Please contact Karissa for more information about planning your newborn session. I can wait to meet you at your consultation!

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Newborn Photographer near York Pa

02.20.20

Newborn Photographer near York Pa | Knox’s newborn photography session

Newborn Photographer near York Pa. Knox was the man! In other words, he was everything a newborn photographer dreams of! His whole session was perfect. It was only to be expected that he would be a super cool dude because he’s got a pretty cool mom and dad! And I could tell just how loved this little Knox man was when I first met them for their newborn and maternity photography consultation. They were so excited to capture everything about this special time in their lives. I am completely honored that they picked me for the job. I am certain that there is a serious level of trust in picking a newborn photographer. New parents don’t put their most precious little person in just anyone’s hands. And to trust a photographer to capture this new and greatest love is something really special. But first, look at this new adorable bond…

new parents are photographed with their baby boy by karissa zimmer photography

Can you sense this overwhelming, heart bursting, love they have for this little dude? Our babies only fit in our arms like this for the such a short, fleeting moment. I know they are going to look back at these photos and cherish this moment in time forever. And I am so glad I was able to capture this for all 3 them! But, Knox- you’re just so cute on your own too…

karissa zimmer photography captures baby boy in adorable pose

newborn baby photographed by karissa zimmer photography

I could write about this adorable session forever. They’re just the cutest little family. Knox made a mark on my heart-that’s for sure!

Are you expecting a baby? Let’s capture these perfect tiny moments for you to remember forever.

Having a newborn baby will be one of the most special times of your whole, entire life. I would love to help you capture and preserve this moment to look back on forever. Any parent will tell you just how quickly this phase passes. Which one reason why newborns are photographed so early on – in the first 10 days of their little lives! So, the best time to set up a newborn photography session is as early as possible! You definitely want to start planning and have your newborn session reserved before your baby arrives. Most clients book before their 3rd trimester. But, if you’ve waited – don’t hesitate to call me! I will always try to get a newborn babe squeezed in my schedule! I never want to turn down a chance to cuddle a babe if I don’t have to!

So, send me a quick message HERE to get in touch and start planning! I can’t wait to work with you!

Newborn Photographer near York Pa Read More »

Harrisburg Maternity Photographer

Why Book Your Central Pennsylvania Maternity Photos Early

Find Availability for Your Preferred Date

Start Planning Early for Summer Central Pennsylvania Maternity Photos

Move On with Other Projects

Book Your Summer Central Pennsylvania Maternity Photos Today

1. Embrace Wintery Accessories

2. Moisturize and Hydrate Before Your Harrisburg Winter Maternity Photo Session

3. Bring Warming Items for In Between Shots

4. Discuss Logistics for Your Harrisburg Winter Maternity Photo Session

5. Be Open to Recommendations and Flexibility Due to the Weather

6. Wear Winter-Friendly Footwear

7. Try to Relax

Booking Your Harrisburg Winter Maternity Photo Session

Pro: Beautiful Natural Scenery for Mechanicsburg Outdoor Fall Maternity Photography (or Spring or Summer)

Con: Difficulty Taking Semi-Nude Portraits

Pro: Create Special Family Memories

Con: Potential Weather-Related Challenges for Mechanicsburg Outdoor Fall Maternity Photography

Pro: No Need to Prep Your Home

Con: Wardrobe Limitations

Creating the Mechanicsburg Outdoor Fall Maternity Photography of Your Dreams

Choose an Aesthetic That Feels Genuine for Your Harrisburg Maternity Portrait Session

Communicate Your Comfort Level

Choose Outfits Together

Focus on Each Other

Creating Magical Harrisburg Maternity Portraits for Couples

What Is Lifestyle Newborn Photography?

What’s the Difference Between Lifestyle and Studio Newborn Photography?

Benefits of Lifestyle Newborn Portraits

Benefits of Studio Newborn Portraits

Another Option: Combining Lifestyle and Studio Newborn Photography

Scheduling Your Harrisburg PA Lifestyle Newborn Photography or Studio Newborn Photography

Nursery Portraits

Outdoor Harrisburg Maternity Photos

Maternity Photos in Your Own Yard

Windswept Maternity Gowns

Charming Historic Harrisburg Maternity Photos

Sentimental Elements

Scheduling Your Harrisburg Maternity Photos Today

Have an Aesthetic in Mind

Choose Your Dream Location for Your Family Maternity Photos in Camp Hill

Plan a Bag of Tricks for Your Kids

Invest in Yourself!

Consider Bringing a Helping Hand to Your Family Maternity Photos in Camp Hill

Communicate with Your Photographer

Schedule Your Family Maternity Photos in Camp Hill

Why Incorporate the Family into a Maternity Photo Session?

Tips for a Smoother Maternity Family Photoshoot with Kids

Give Everyone Time in the Spotlight

Coordinate Everyone’s Outfits

Pack for Comfort

Choose Your Photographer Wisely

Planning Your Maternity Family Photoshoot

Everything You Need to Know About a Newborn Session

How old should my little one be for the photo session?

When should I book my session?

What if my baby arrives earlier than expected?

How long does a newborn session last?

How should I dress my newborn for photos?

What should I bring to my newborn session?

Newborn Photographer near York Pa | Knox’s newborn photography session

Are you expecting a baby? Let’s capture these perfect tiny moments for you to remember forever.