Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Lovely Baby Photography located?
Our boutique photography studio is located in Carlsbad, California, in North County San Diego at 2185 Faraday Avenue, Suite 110, Carlsbad, California 92008. We’re conveniently located off El Camino Real near Highway 5. Our studio operates by appointment only to ensure each family receives a personalized, luxurious experience. We’re open Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Who is Stacey Marsh?
Stacey is the owner and principal photographer at Lovely Baby Photography. She has been photographing maternity, newborn, and children’s sessions for over sixteen years, with nine of those years serving families in the San Diego area. She lives in Carlsbad with her husband and two children. Stacey is recognized for her classic newborn portraiture using organic and neutral tones with a pop of color, and she’s known as “the baby whisperer” by many of her clients. Learn more about Stacey.
What photography services do you offer?
We specialize in newborn photography capturing babies in their first weeks of life, maternity photography with both studio and outdoor sessions, cake smash and first birthday sessions celebrating baby’s first milestone, baby milestone photography at 6 and 12 months, and family photography capturing your growing family. All sessions take place in our beautiful Carlsbad studio, with outdoor options available for maternity sessions.
When should I schedule my newborn session?
It’s best to schedule your newborn session several months before baby arrives, ideally during your second trimester. We take a limited number of newborns each month, so early booking ensures you secure a spot. We don’t hold an exact date until after baby arrives – instead, we schedule within the weeks surrounding your due date for maximum flexibility. Filling out our contract and paying your session fee will hold a session spot for you in the weeks surrounding baby’s arrival.
What is the best age for newborn photos?
The ideal window for newborn photos is within the first two weeks of baby’s life when they’re sleepiest and most flexible for those adorable curled-up poses. This is when babies are most content to sleep through the gentle posing and still have that “brand new” look that passes so quickly.
What’s included in a newborn photography session?
Our newborn sessions include professional hair and makeup for mom done while we work with baby, full use of our extensive studio wardrobe for the entire family, 4-5 different prop setups with various colors and textures, family portraits including sibling shots, soft blankets, wraps, headbands, hats and props, and unlimited time. We never rush your session. We even have outfits available for big brother and big sister depending on their age. Studio sessions include family photos as well, so everyone can be part of these precious memories.
Should I be in the newborn photos even though I just had a baby?
Absolutely! We encourage families to be in the images even if you’re tired from sleepless nights. Our included professional hair and makeup service will pamper you so you feel your best. This is done while Stacey works with baby for their solo portraits. Once hair and makeup is complete, we’ll capture stunning mom and baby, dad and baby, family and sibling images. The newborn stage passes incredibly quickly, and these images become priceless memories you’ll treasure forever. You won’t regret being in the pictures.
What should I bring to a newborn session?
Just bring your baby! We provide everything else including props, blankets, wraps, and wardrobe for the entire family. We have a beautiful selection of wardrobe for mom to use during the session, and we even have outfits for big brother and big sister. We recommend bringing a pacifier if your baby uses one and arriving with a recently fed, sleepy baby for the best results.
When is the best time for maternity photos?
We recommend scheduling your maternity session between 32-36 weeks of pregnancy when your belly is beautifully round but you’re still comfortable moving around. This timing gives you that gorgeous pregnant silhouette while ensuring you’re not too uncomfortable during the session.
What should I wear for a maternity photoshoot?
You don’t need to worry about wardrobe at all! We have a collection of over 150 beautiful and unique maternity photoshoot dresses, wraps and gowns available for our clients to use during their session. Stacey will guide you if you have any questions. If your partner or children join for your session, Stacey can guide you in what they should wear to complement your look. Neutral solid colors are the classic choice. We also have some wardrobe for big sister and big brother to wear depending on the age of your child. Stacey also has gorgeous accessories including crowns, body jewelry, and necklaces to complement your look during the session.
Is hair and makeup included in maternity sessions?
Yes! Professional hair and makeup with our amazing makeup artist is included in every maternity session. We want you to feel pampered and gorgeous for your maternity session. Our clients rave about having this high-end service and experience. This is one of the special touches that makes our studio experience truly luxurious.
Do you offer outdoor maternity photography sessions?
Yes, we offer both studio and outdoor maternity photography sessions. Our studio maternity portraits are beautiful and classic, using simplicity and many contrasting dark and light shades. For outdoor sessions, we work at gorgeous San Diego locations including beaches and parks. We can help you decide which style best suits your vision during your free consultation.
What is a cake smash session?
A cake smash session is a fun and memorable way to commemorate your baby’s first birthday milestone! Your child is presented with a cake to enjoy, and we capture their reactions. Some babies eat the cake, others smash it, some do both, and occasionally nothing happens at first – but we have plenty of tricks to encourage interaction! These sessions create adorable, personality-filled images that celebrate this major milestone.
When should I book a cake smash session?
It’s never too early to get on the schedule! Some months fill up fast and we have to turn clients away, so it’s better to book as soon as you decide you want a session. We often book sessions several months out. It’s best to do the pictures within about 4 weeks of baby’s actual first birthday if you want photos back in time for a party, though we’re happy to schedule around baby’s actual birthday if you prefer.
What’s included in a cake smash photography session?
Our cake smash sessions include your choice from over 250 different backdrop and theme options, the cake itself in either a simple or custom design (custom cakes require at least two weeks notice), over 200 dresses and rompers for little girls, over 100 outfits for little boys, all coordinating props including “one” signs, cake stands and themed decorations, an adorable tub for cleanup pictures, and 15-20 minutes of family pictures at the start of the session. Our wardrobe is high-end and Stacey works very hard to bring in specialty and often custom items for your child to wear during the session.
What if my baby doesn’t like cake?
Over half of babies aren’t really interested in eating the cake initially, and that’s completely normal! That’s why we highly suggest bringing a few of baby’s favorite snacks, which we place on the cake to encourage interaction. Stacey has been doing cake smash sessions for many years and has lots of tricks to help the session go smoothly. Even babies who aren’t interested in eating create adorable, authentic images.
What do I need to bring to a cake smash session?
Nothing! We handle the entire process. Just bring a happy, well-rested baby and a few of their favorite snacks. Otherwise, we handle everything from start to finish including the backdrop, outfits, cake, props, and cleanup. Almost all of our clients use our extensive wardrobe collection, though you’re welcome to bring a special outfit if you’d like.
Can we bring family or friends to watch the cake smash session?
We discourage this only because being in a new place is already overwhelming to a lot of little ones. Adding in all the family members trying to interact while Stacey is trying to get baby to look at the camera is often just too much for baby. We highly suggest parents only at the session. If you do bring other family members, we ask you to limit it to 2 other people and we’ll have them stay in our waiting area during the session.
Can we have family pictures during a cake smash session?
Absolutely, and we highly encourage it! This isn’t a full drawn-out family session, but we spend about 15-20 minutes grabbing beautiful family pictures at the very start of the session. We want to save baby’s energy and smiles for the rest of their solo pictures, so we capture family portraits first while baby is fresh and happy.
What are baby milestone sessions?
Baby milestone sessions capture your little one’s growth and development at key stages. We highly recommend capturing portraits at the 6-month and 12-month milestones. Your baby’s personality is starting to shine through at these ages, making for wonderful portraits. We work closely with each family to come up with sets, colors, and themes that fit their child’s personality. Learn more about milestone photography sessions.
How do I book a photography session?
Start by filling out our contact form or calling us at 760-271-0725 for a free, no-obligation consultation. You can also email Stacey directly at [email protected]. We’ll discuss your vision, answer all your questions, and find the perfect session date. Once we agree on a date, we require a retainer and completed contract to secure your spot on our calendar.
How many clients do you photograph each month?
We intentionally take a limited number of clients each month so we can focus on providing a top-of-the-line, luxurious experience from start to finish. From our first email or phone conversation to the session itself and the follow-up ordering and selection appointment, you’ll experience personalized attention and care at every step.
How long do photography sessions take?
We never put time limits on our sessions. Your comfort and baby’s needs come first, so sessions naturally take as long as needed. We take breaks for feeding, changing, and soothing as required. During newborn sessions, we work at baby’s pace to keep them content and sleepy. The goal is always beautiful images, never rushing through an experience that should be enjoyable and stress-free.
How do I see and purchase my photos after the session?
After your session, you’ll have a follow-up ordering and selection appointment where you can view your images and purchase your favorites. This personalized approach ensures you have time to carefully consider which images mean the most to you and select the perfect products to preserve your memories.
What makes your studio different from other photographers?
Our boutique studio is fully stocked with everything needed for stunning portraits including soft neutral and colored blankets and wraps, wood floor backdrops and fabric options, tiny props designed specifically for newborns, high-end and organic baby clothing, an extensive maternity wardrobe collection of over 150 gowns and dresses, over 250 cake smash backdrop themes, and professional styling and posing expertise. Beyond the physical studio, Stacey invests herself completely in every session, spending hours creating backdrops, sourcing gorgeous outfits, and providing a truly great experience to each client. Hundreds of San Diego families trust us each year because of this dedication to quality and service.
What should my partner and children wear for our session?
For newborn and family sessions, we provide wardrobe for the entire family. We have a beautiful selection for mom and even outfits for big brother and big sister depending on their age. For maternity sessions where partners and children join, Stacey can guide you on what complements your look best. Neutral solid colors are typically the classic choice that photographs beautifully.
Do you provide hair and makeup for all session types?
Professional hair and makeup with our amazing makeup artist is included in every maternity session and every newborn session. For maternity sessions, this helps you feel gorgeous and pampered. For newborn sessions, hair and makeup is done for mom while Stacey works with baby for their solo portraits, so you’re camera-ready for family photos. This high-end service is something our clients rave about.
Can I use my own wardrobe or props?
While we provide an extensive collection of wardrobe and props for all our sessions, you’re absolutely welcome to bring special items you’d like included. Most clients choose to use our wardrobe since we have such a large selection, but we’re happy to incorporate meaningful pieces that are special to your family.
How far in advance should I book?
For newborn sessions, book several months before baby arrives, ideally during your second trimester. For cake smash and milestone sessions, book several months in advance as some months fill up quickly. For maternity sessions, reach out as soon as you know you’d like portraits. The earlier you book, the better chance you have of securing your preferred date and time.
What is your cancellation or rescheduling policy?
We understand that babies don’t always arrive on schedule and life happens. Please contact us to discuss our specific policies regarding rescheduling and cancellations. We’ll work with you to find a solution that works for your situation.
Do you offer photography mentoring or education for other photographers?
Yes! Stacey offers photography mentoring. If you’re a photographer interested in learning more about newborn, maternity, or children’s photography, contact us to inquire about mentoring opportunities.
What investment should I expect for a photography session?
For detailed pricing and package information tailored to your specific needs, please contact us for a free consultation. We’ll discuss which session type is right for you and provide complete investment details. When you invest in Lovely Baby Photography, you’re investing in professional expertise, luxurious service, extensive wardrobe and props, and beautiful images that will last a lifetime.
Can I see examples of your photography work?
Yes! Visit our website to see galleries of our newborn photography, maternity photography, cake smash sessions, and more. You can also follow us on Instagram @lovelybabyphotography1 to see recent sessions and behind-the-scenes content.
I’m interested but not sure where to start. What should I do?
Simply reach out! Contact us by phone at 760-271-0725, email Stacey at [email protected], or fill out our contact form for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll answer all your questions and help you determine which session type is perfect for your family. There’s no pressure – just a friendly conversation about capturing your precious memories.