Hey, Friend.
Congratulations are in order!
You’re about to welcome a tiny human into this world. This is no doubt an exciting moment in your life, but one that obviously comes with a lot of information on what you should be doing and how you should be doing it. So, if you’re looking to document the raw, real essence of this magical time, but you’re not sure where to begin, you’ve come to the right place.
The information in this guide is meant to help you through (almost) all of your photography-related questions, so you can relax knowing you’ll soon have maternity and/or newborn portraits that light up your emotions for years to come.
We're jazzed you're here, and we can't wait to get to know you and your growing family better!
If you still have questions after scrolling through this guide, don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re here to be the storytellers of your life.
info@chelsea-hall.com | 937.475.8111
The Lady
Meet Chelsea
Behind the Lens
I’m Chelsea, the owner and principal photographer of Chelsea Hall Photography. Back in 2012, after graduating with a degree in photojournalism, I opened my own studio, and I haven’t looked back! Since then, I’ve been documenting couples, families, and newborns. And I’m honored I have clients who call me their “lifetime photographer.”
Of course, I’m passionate about making all humans feel comfortable enough to show their true side in front of the camera. But I’m also a cat lady who loves her rescue kitties (Jimi & Audrey), a music junkie who plans her life around shows, and a proud Daytonian who loves lifting up fellow local business owners for the sake of our community.
Thank you for the opportunity to capture your here and now, your raw and real, alongside my team of badass women.
Keep up with the latest
Family Collections
These are the kind of down-to-earth, relaxed moments you’re going to want to hold on to.
maternity | $600
hand-edited, high-res online gallery with the option to download and print portraits
newborn | $850*
hand-edited, high-res online gallery with the option to download and print portraits
*Add a 30-minute lifestyle maternity session for $300
family | $600
hand-edited, high-res online gallery with the option to download and print portraits
Ask us about
Birth Sessions
We’ve had the magical opportunity to capture a few births over the years. There’s nothing quite like it! However, due to the spontaneity of such a special event, we only have the capacity to document 1-2 births a year.
If you’re interested in having professional portraits of this meaningful moment in your life, reach out to see if we have a spot available for you.
“Not only did she photograph my family so I could have images for holiday cards, she also captured the personality and energy my family emulates. From dance parties, to pouting, to wrestling in the front yard, I was impressed how she made all events so flattering.”
—The Gorman Family
Session Planning
What to Expect
Location
You have a story, and we want to tell it! We suggest choosing a location that’s unique and meaningful to your family. Maybe you love cuddling at home on your couch for a movie night and running around your backyard? Or maybe you have a favorite local park? No matter where you go-to spot may be, let us know about it because, when you do, you can count on your portraits giving you all the feels for years to come.
Scheduling
Sessions are scheduled 1-2 months in advance. Cancellations and reschedules must be made via email or phone at least 48 hours prior to your session.
Payment
A 50% non-refundable deposit is required in order to secure your session. The remaining 50% of your balance is due one week prior to your session.
What to Wear
Wear something that makes you feel comfortable and confident! We suggest choosing a color scheme you love. Maybe something that would match your home decor? Feel free to get creative!
Style Tip
While it’s great to compliment your fam in photos, by no means do you all need to wear matching outfits.
If your other half is more comfortable in solid colors, try choosing something with a little texture or pattern for you or your littles. Patterns are a great way to add contrast to your images. Be creative, and let your unique personality shine through.
TIPS TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SESSION
Location: Have your session at home.
If you feel up to it, we suggest having your session at home. If you're newly pregnant, an in-home session documents your current life. It's something you can look back on with fond memories. Can you imagine a popcorn bowl on your belly for a fun movie night session? ADORABLE. And if you have little ones in the family already, they'll feel safe and comfortable in a familiar place. You can play in the backyard or in the playroom. Or, snuggle on the couch and jump on the bed (with your permission, obviously)!
Maternity: Book sooner than later!
The best time for your maternity session is when you're around 6 - 7 months pregnant! Your bump will be popping, but you'll still be able to move around for pictures. We also suggest booking a hair and makeup artist to help you feel your best!
Newborn: Gather all you details beforehand so we can photograph them quickly!
We suggest having a collection of neutral swaddles and wraps that matches your color scheme. We can let you know which ones will photograph best when we arrive. If you have any sentimental items (like onesies, stuffed animals, blankets, etc.), feel free to set them aside so we can add them in where it visually makes sense.
Family: Rest, relax, and leave it up to us.
Make sure your little ones have rested and snacked before your session! When we start documenting your family, we ask that you relax and let us do the hard work of getting your kiddos' attention. We find that when parents step in, the tiny humans in the crew tend to get stressed and overly stimulated. Trust us to do our job, and we'll make some magic happen. Of course, we'll let you know if we need to call in the reinforcements (aka you).
Remember: we’re just hanging out while documenting your unscripted life. No poses. no need to look put together. so, kick back and enjoy your time in front of the camera.
