Mechanicsburg PA Baby Photography

Questions to Ask Your Newborn Photographer

Newborn photography is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to preserve this incredibly special and brief time in your baby’s life. You only get one chance for these sentimental portraits, so of course, you want to make the most of this opportunity. And who’s the expert in making the most of your session? Your newborn photographer, of course!

As you’re hiring a newborn photographer in Camp Hill PA or wherever you are, asking the right questions can allow you to enjoy a smoother process with outstanding results. To help you make that happen, I’m laying out the top questions to ask your newborn photographer.

What Can I Expect from the Process Ahead?

Every photographer has their own process and their own steps they follow. Will there be an in-person consultation or just a chat over the phone? How long will your photo session be? When and how will you be able to order your finished products? This varies for each photographer, so it’s not a good idea to make assumptions.

As an example, here’s a rundown of my process:

  1. In-person Consultation – We’ll chat about how to prepare for your session and what to expect during your session, as well as your vision for your newborn portraits and the ways you want to use your finished portraits (where you might want to hang them in your home, for instance) so I can customize your session to fit your vision.
  2. Your Newborn Photo Session – We’ll meet in my comfortable and well-equipped home studio, starting in the morning for a relaxed session of up to six hours so we can allow as much time as you need for feeding and soothing your baby between shots.
  3. Editing – I’ll custom edit the best photos from your session to give you that true “wow” factor.
  4. Viewing and Ordering Appointment – You’ll return to my studio for your appointment about two weeks after your photo session, where I’ll present you with a slideshow with all your amazing newborn photos and you’ll decide what finished products you want to order
  5. Delivery – I’ll deliver your finished heirloom-quality products to you about 4-6 weeks after your ordering appointment and help you hang your pieces in your home so you can enjoy them immediately.

How Should I Prepare for My Newborn Photo Session?

In newborn photography, I recognize that many of my clients have never had a newborn photo session before, and for those who have, it was probably years ago. Make sure you’re receiving clear guidance about how to prepare for your session. For example, is there an ideal time you should feed your baby before the session? Should you try to get your baby to sleep when you arrive? Is there anything you should do or avoid to make sure your baby is feeling and looking picture-perfect?

What Should I Bring to My Newborn Photography Session?

As you saw above, my newborn photography sessions can last up to six hours. Babies have so many “accessories” they need over that amount of time, and so do new mamas – diapers, wipes, potentially a breast pump, snacks, and so on. There might also be specific items you want to incorporate into your newborn portraits, like family heirlooms or other items of significance. Make sure you get a list from your newborn photographer of anything they suggest that you bring to your session.

Can Parents and Siblings Be in the Newborn Photos?

Some families want the spotlight to be entirely on their new baby, while others want their photos to show this special moment in life for the entire family. Make sure you ask about this in advance so you know who to bring to your session and who should be picture-ready.

Each photographer has different policies, but I include parents in newborn portraits for no additional fee. For families with other children, I recommend my add-on sibling portrait session. This one to two-hour lifestyle session will take place at your home within one week of your newborn photo session. This way, your kids can be where they’re comfortable and you don’t have to bring them to your six-hour newborn session and keep them occupied for that length of time.

What Types of Photo Products Do You Offer as a Newborn Photographer?

Ultimately, the most magical part of newborn photography is having high-quality items that will last for generations. Make sure you know what your options will be, because each photographer sources these items from different artisans or businesses, and some don’t handle finished products at all. At my studio, for example, I proudly offer fine art custom framed prints, well-crafted Italian wall art, customized heirloom albums, mounted prints, and more.

Getting the Scoop from Your Newborn Photographer

As you’re hiring a newborn photographer, the questions you ask will set you up for an easier, less stressful process because you’ll have a clear understanding of the road ahead. Finding the right questions to ask your newborn photographer is the first step. Use the questions above to get the best results from your newborn portrait session. If you’re in the market for a photographer, schedule your newborn photography session with me in Harrisburg, PA today.

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Camp Hill Baby Photography Studio | Hannah’s Sunflower Cake Smash

Are you looking for a Camp Hill Baby Photography Studio? Look no further! A little bit of cake smash anxiety for the birthday girl did not stop us from capturing some of the most adorable images of Miss Hannah! I love everything about her sunflower theme! But most of all, I love that she was one of my tiny 2020 newborn clients who came back to see me! I was so excited that Hannah’s parents booked her a first birthday cake smash session way back when they were in the studio for her newborn ordering appointment. And, to me, that says they loved her newborn images so much! So much that they trusted me enough to capture this special milestone also! There is nothing that fills this photographer’s heart more than the opportunity to photograph my clients again and again! To watch and document my little clients as they grow up is truly the biggest honor!

Planning a Cake Smash Session in the Camp Hill Baby Photography Studio

When it was time to start planning Hannah’s cake smash session, her mama threw me a few ideas that she liked. Ultimately, she gave me the reigns! She trusted me to plan something beautiful for her baby girl’s special session. When she said she liked bright pops of color including yellow I just knew where I was going to go with this! I think the fall season and sunflowers pair so perfectly! It’s always my goal to plan and create a cake smash theme that is beautiful and timeless. I think everything about Hannah’s sunflower session is perfect for an October baby! Once I knew where I was going with this, I contacted my favorite baker, Brittany at Baked By Brittany in Mechanicsburg, PA. Although I opt for simple cakes for my sessions, she is a truly talented artist and creates some of the most elaborate cakes I’ve seen! Be sure to check her out!

When to book a cake smash studio session?

Will your baby turn one this year? If you’re wondering when to book your baby’s studio cake smash session the answer is: It’s never too early! As with all sessions, planning ahead is best! There is quite a process that goes into planning, customizing and making a first birthday cake smash session special! A first birthday session is something you’ll want to have reserved at least two months prior to your baby’s first birthday. Although, even further in advance is best!

My baby has a first birthday coming up! Where do I start?

Send me a message! I am here to help walk you through the entire portrait process! From the very first phone call we will have, through planning the most special cake smash session and all the way through delivery of your portrait art work! The first step is to reach out to me via my contact form. You can expect a phone call from me to start planning your baby’s milestone magic!

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Best Mechanicsburg Newborn Photographer | Why are they so expensive?

You know you want the best Mechanicsburg Newborn Photographer to photograph your new baby. Every parent wants to have high-quality, professional photos of their newborn, but sometimes the cost can be a little daunting. I’ve often had people ask me why I charge the prices I do for my photography. After all, everyone has a decent camera on their phones these days, right? How hard is it to snap a few photos?

baby boy photographed by Best Mechanicsburg newborn, karissa zimmer photography

Hiring the best Mechanicsburg newborn photographer is an investment.

Hiring a professional photographer is an investment. You’re paying for so much more than “a few photos.” You’re paying for many years of continued education, experience and their unique talent and expertise. You wouldn’t pay just anyone to cut and style your hair or to fix your car, would you? Of course, you want someone who is knowledgeable and who can get the job done correctly and done well.

The same goes for photographers. While you want an experienced professional for any kind of photos you need, it’s especially important with newborn photography. Posed newborn photography requires training and knowledge on how to pose an infant safely. That’s not something you want to trust to an amateur! The wrong pose or a lack of care can actually hurt your child or even cause long-lasting damage, but a photographer certified in newborn posing can create adorable images while keeping your baby’s safety as their number one priority.

best mechanicsburg newborn photographer karissa zimmer photographed newborn baby boy

Like any product or service, you get what you pay for when you hire a photographer.

You’ve likely heard the phrase, “You get what you pay for.” If you opt for a “cheap” newborn photographer or a family friend who is just starting out, you likely won’t get the images you want. However, when you invest in a professional newborn photographer, you get so much for your money, including:

  • A professional studio space, accessories and props
  • Lighting expertise
  • Years of experience and knowledge
  • Safe, adorable poses
  • Professional, high-quality editing of your images
  • Quality wall art, albums and tangible products that will last forever

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. A professional newborn photographer has likely gone through years of training, purchased expensive professional equipment and become certified in how to safely pose newborns. They have invested countless time and money in their business in order to provide you with a high-quality service and products. Running a successful, professional photography business costs a significant amount of money and is a full-time job for most photographers. And as a client and a parent, you want to work with someone who is focused on meeting your needs and creating images you will love and cherish forever.

A professional photographer is a storyteller. They capture the story of your family’s growth and love in a way you can visually see, freezing a moment in time and creating memories that your whole family will cherish.

While newborn photography may seem costly, it is an investment that will increase in value as the years go by. As your child grows into a toddler and a teenager and even an adult, you will have their newborn images—and hopefully other professional photos as well—to look back on to remind you where this unique and special journey began. That’s something you simply cannot put a price on.

new mother is photographed by best Mechanicsburg newborn photographer Karissa Zimmer
baby boy posed in bucket and photographed by mechanicsburg pa best newborn photographer
newborn baby boy photographed in Mechanicsburg pa by karissa zimmer photography
newborn baby photography by karissa zimmer photography
karissa zimmer photography photographs newborn baby boy on plaid

Choosing the best Mechanicsburg Newborn Photographer for you

Hi! Welcome to Karissa Zimmer Photography! If you are expecting your first baby, or even your fourth baby, I am here to make sure your newborn photography session is a wonderful experience, while creating keepsakes for your family to cherish forever.

Karissa Zimmer Photography is a boutique photography studio located in Camp Hill PA (Hampden Township). She serves all of Mechanicsburg PA, Harrisburg PA and all surrounding areas including Carlisle, Enola, New Cumberland, Lemoyne, Hershey, Palmyra and York PA. Karissa photographs expecting parents, newborn babies, children & families, including high school seniors. Karissa’s style is timeless and forever.

The goal for each session is for you to leave with printed, tangible artwork including heirloom albums, fine art framed prints, and modern Italian wall art. Your memories are forever and they deserved to be displayed in your home and preserved forever.

Contact Karissa

Please enter your information and I will be in touch shortly to set up your in person consultation. Just a little reminder: Newborn, maternity and family sessions do book several months in advance. For newborn sessions please contact me while you are still pregnant. Maternity sessions take place between 33-36 weeks. Newborn sessions take place within the first 10 days of your baby’s life, and not more than 2 weeks of age. Newborn sessions are very limited each month and are scheduled on a first come, first to reserve basis. So, please contact me as soon as you can to reserve a spot just for your baby. I can’t wait to meet you and capture your most special memories!

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Baby Photographer in Mechanicsburg Pa

Baby Photographer in Mechanicsburg Pa | The Milestone you shouldn't miss.

As a baby Photographer in Mechanicsburg Pa, I'm going to give you my best new parent advice. The 6th month old "sitter" milestone is the one you shouldn't miss! As in THIS IS THE CUTEST PHASE EVER! Like, hire a professional photographer NOW type of important! Whether you had your baby photographed as a newborn or not, the 6th month old milestone of your baby's life is absolutely one you will want to have visual memories of forever. I can promise you. This stage, when your baby is able to sit up by her/himself, nearly unassisted is the perfect time to document some of the cutest memories you will have. Six month sitter sessions offer the best, most animated smiles and expressions. Babies are almost always just so happy and pleasant at this age! It is literally the best!

If you can't take my word for it, no worries. I have no trouble providing you with one of the most adorable 6 month old sitter examples EVER! This absolute doll baby is Sienna. Really, I can only describe her as the most perfect baby doll I've ever seen. She was such a happy girl. But, her gorgeous, bright blue eyes and her amazing dark hair is what I first fell in love with. Then, she little personality shines through! I'd scoop her right up and keep her if I was allowed! Ready to have your heart burst with crazy amounts of cuteness? Ready or not...Meet Sienna!

Will your baby be approaching the 6-7 month milestone soon? I would love to be your baby photographer!

If the answer is yes, now is the perfect time to start planning. It is never really too early! In fact, the earlier the better! It is best to reserve this type of session 1-4 months in advance. I customize each session especially for you and your baby. These are the images you'll want hanging on your walls where you can see them each and every time you walk into your home. I promise - they will make you smile every single day!

Get in touch with me now to start planning your baby's 6 month old "sitter" session.

I would love to work with you and will walk you through my process from consultation to delivery of your image art work. First, send me a quick message HERE to get in touch! I can't wait to meet you and your little love!

Follow along to see more baby photographer sneak peeks...

Want to catch more sneak peeks of my 6th month old sessions and many more? Click INSTAGRAM to follow me!

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Newborn and Baby Photographer near Camp Hill Pa

Newborn and Baby Photographer near Camp Hill, Pa – Aitha

Newborn and Baby Photographer near Camp Hill Pa. Just LOOK at this little guy’s gorgeous head of dark hair! I mean, it would make most of us girls jealous! I really, really have a thing for babies with a full head of hair. Especially dark hair! If you follow my work, you are probably already aware of that! Maybe it’s because my own girl had super dark hair as a newborn. Maybe because I am a dark haired girl? I am not sure, but there is just something about a whole lot of dark hair on a newborn that I love so much! When I first laid eyes on this guy I knew he was going to make the most perfect newborn baby art ever! I WAS RIGHT! You have got to agree!?

If you ask me what my ONE favorite part of my job is I don’t think I’d be able to give you an answer. That’s the honest truth. I truly love so many things about what I do. From snuggling these tiny, perfect and new creatures to building lasting relationships with my clients to watching their families grow and their children grow up. But, one thing that means so much to me is to see everything come together in the form of tangible, heirloom portrait art. To see my clients expressions when their portraits are hanging on their walls – IN PRINT! Where it is meant to be! So you can see and enjoy your memories every single day. It is truly rewarding – to you and to me!

Send me a quick

Send me a quick message HERE to start planning your newborn’s custom portrait session! I can’t wait to work with you!

Follow me on INSTAGRAM to catch more sneak peeks of my images and all that’s new at Karissa Zimmer Photography!

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Newborn-Maternity-Family and High School Senior Photographer in Mechanicsburg PA

Newborn-Maternity-Family and High School Senior Photographer in Mechanicsburg PA | 2019 year in review!

As a Newborn-Maternity-Family and High School Senior Photographer in Mechanicsburg PA 2019 was awesome! I’ve captured some of my most favorite images this year. I’ve snuggled, loved and photographed some of the most adorable babies in all of Central PA! I am totally sure of it! I’ve giggled with kiddos, ran around like a nut with toddlers, channeled my youthful soul while capturing high school senior pictures and watched my repeat client families grow up a little more this year. I mean, it will be hard for me to write this post without a few tears. Guys – this is not just my job. This is a genuine labor of love here. Some will say “you shouldn’t be emotionally connected to your job,” but I disagree. I do this with my whole heart. I look back on a year and feel so blessed to have crossed paths with each and every one of my clients. Some it was for the very first time and others who feel like they’ve become old friends. You guys are all gold to me. Every one of you holds a special place in this photographer’s heart of memories.

Now, for a moment of transparency…because, let’s be real-2019 wasn’t all sunshine, unicorns and glitter. It included some unexpected hurdles to jump at times- I guess you could say. This 2019 year required some serious faith to get through the things that are out of my control and the drive to conquer all that is within it. With those two things, the most amazing family, a few very close friends and a whole handful of the greatest clients any photographer could have – Here I am! Happy, healthy, and ready to take on 2020 and all it’s new adventures!

All of these moments that we turned into tangible, keepsake memories mean everything.

Not only to you, but to me. I have a genuine value for family and the people we love most. I know how much it will mean to you forever to have these memories of the babies,children, spouses and EVEN PUPPIES you love. Time will change us all. We’ll grow older as will our children. These moments you allowed me to capture for you are frozen forever. That is priceless. Thank you for trusting me to capture these memories for you this year. Thank you for allowing me to guide you through this process and allow me to help you choose tangible, heirloom artwork for your home so that your children’s children will have these special family memories. They’ll be just as important to you decades from now as they are today!

Let’s talk about 2020!

As we say goodbye to 2019 it’s important to plan for the future! Silly resolution time, I know! But, I’m excited! I’ve got big plans for the new year and I’m looking forward to connecting with all of you who will be a part of it! I will, however, be scheduling limited sessions each month. This keeps me on my A game so that I can give each of you a personal and custom portrait experience. Most important, I’m a mom myself, so being present for my daughter is my biggest priority. I’m all about “being the best version of ourselves” and a good start for me is by not overfilling my plate. I want to give everyone I care about the best version of me! So, with that being said…plan, plan, plan ahead! Yep, I know…lots of us a procrastinators, but it’s best to book your session several months in advance! If you’re expecting a baby this year – it is best to schedule your newborn session before your 3rd trimester. That way, all is set when baby arrives! Newborn session openings fill FAST! If you’re thinking ahead to spring and summer – now is a great time to get the planning started! It is MY MOST FAVORITE time of the year for family photography! Absolutely, positively the most beautiful time of the year! And Fall…welll….i’m still recovering from the past few months. We’ll revisit the idea of fall again soon! Hahaha!

Let’s chat about your family!

I’d love to chat about what makes your family special and how we can capture that for you. I’ll sit down with you and carefully plan all the details to how we will photograph your special people. I’ll walk you through my entire portrait process. Send me a quick message HERE to get in touch with me!

Do you follow me on INSTAGRAM? Catch all the sneak peeks and fun updates there!

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Gibson Family Portrait Session

There is no doubt that I love to photograph The Gibson family portrait session each year! I can say with all honesty that this family is very special to me.  This is our 7th photo session together!  I first met them when I photographed Taylor, their oldest (and only!) daughter for the cover of Central Penn Parent Magazine when she was in middle school.  Now, she is about to begin her first year in college!  One of my absolute favorite things about being a portrait photographer is the opportunity to develop a relationship with families and capture how they grow and change over the years.  This year, the Gibson clan grew by one more adorable little guy!  All three little boys are extremely blessed to have a big sis like Taylor! I don't think I've ever met a big sister who is anything like her.  The love she has for her little brothers is without a doubt, something very, very special!  Each year, I walk away from their session with a smile on my face, and my heart full.  The Gibsons are a family who truly love one another AND they know how to have FUN together!

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This is probably one of my favorite sibling bonds ever <3

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The littlest Gibson and all his cuteness!!!

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Love and laughter! My favorite combo <3

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The part that makes what I do most worthwhile is that I know the Gibson's cherish the memories we capture, forever.  The walls of their home tell their family's story perfectly.

 

Every family is special. Portraits of the people you love are the most invaluable possessions you can own.  Let's work together to capture and tell your family's special story.  Send me a message here to chat about planning your own custom portrait session!

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Portraits Of Your Family Are Invaluable

I'm on a roll! This NEVER happens that I am editing and sharing images of my own child twice in one week!  As I dedicate my life to capturing and preserving memories for my clients and their families, I realize just how important it is to share the value of portraits in my own life as well.  This is the little girl who lights up my world everyday.  She the person that gives me purpose.  The main reason I get up everyday and do what I do.  The memories I capture of her at this age and every age (past and future) mean everything to me.  Images of my daughter are what I have to remember her at all of the stages of her life as she grows, changes, and moves on to something new.  I could never imagine not having the printed memories I have of her to look back on.  Printed portraits of your family are invaluable.  They will mean everything someday!

Family Photography baby photographer Mechanicsburg PA Newborn photographer Family PhotosWhen you're 9...There is so much joy in twirling in a pretty white dress!

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Let's work together to create some forever memories for your family! Send me a message to start planning your family's special portrait session.

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