The Importance of Professional Editing in Maternity and Newborn Photography by Conner James Photography

You’ve been shopping around for maternity and newborn photographers and have finally made up your mind; Edwardsville, Illinois newborn photographer Conner James Photography. Owner and photographer Christine has a portfolio that turns more than just a few heads. Her work impresses and sets examples for competitor newborn photographers throughout the Midwest. You could be wondering what it is about Christine’s work that sets her apart from other baby photographers. Maybe it's her instance ability to create the most amazing composite images. Or her one-of-a-kind vision for creating the most unique set-ups. Perhaps it’s her genius editing techniques. Keep reading to learn what makes this Glen Carbon photographer the best of the best.

Editing. Christine knows editing. It’s a whole other language and one she speaks fluently. But how does editing make this photographer in Edwardsville stand out among the rest? Well, editing is the critical final step in all photo sessions. It’s not just “enhancing” the final images as many think. For Glen Carbon, Illinois newborn photographer Conner James Photography, it’s giving each image the final finish that is consistent with the Conner James brand and style. This is something Christine has perfected over a dozen years and something that truly sets her apart from other baby photographers. 

With Christine being triple certified in newborn safety and posing, she or one of her three assistants is always supporting the newborn during photo sessions. That being said, there is a set of hands in every single photograph she takes - until she gets to editing! Once this gifted St. Louis photographer works her magic, you would never know there were hands, arms, sometimes even half of a person in her photographs. She can “erase” everything that normally wouldn’t belong in an original photo.

Glen Carbon baby photographer Christine captures as much natural perfection as she can through her lens. She only relies on editing to enhance the beauty of her newborns. Though her home-studio boasts top-of-the-line lighting, editing still helps by correcting any issues and by enhancing colors. Christine goes above and beyond with her editing talent. She knows just how far to elevate the natural beauty of her subject while also preserving the authenticity and integrity of each photo.

Think about that awful pimple you have on the day of your maternity photos. Maybe some skin discoloration you normally wouldn’t have but your hormones are in charge. And what about your newborn? These precious babies almost always have blotchy skin and marks that most parents would like removed. Sound complicated? Not for this Edwardsville photographer! It’s almost like watching Cinderella’s fairy godmother with her magic wand. All of mama’s and/or baby’s best features are highlighted with just a few quick clicks to ensure the final product is flawless.

So, rest assured. Because when you use St. Louis newborn photographer Conner James Photography, your photos will be bold. They will be unique. They will be beautiful. And most of all, they will be professional masterpieces you can look back at year after year.

Outgoing Links:

1.[Collinsville, IL Chambers of Commerce](https://www.collinsvilleil.org/business/chamber-of-commerce)

2.[Troy, Maryville, St. Jacob, Marine Chamber of Commerce](https://www.troymaryvillecoc.com/)

3.[City of Edwardsville IL](https://www.cityofedwardsville.com)

4.[Book Now Webpage](https://www.connerjamesphotography.com/booknow)

5.[T&C Ultrasound](https://www.tncultrasound.com)

6.[Once Upon A Child Edwardsville](https://www.onceuponachild.com/locations/edwardsville-IL)

7.[Happily Ever Photo](https://www.happilyeverphoto.com/)

8.[Edwardsville Neighbors](https://edwardsvilleneighbors.org/)

Choosing the Perfect Time for Maternity Photos: Edwardsville IL Photographer Conner James Photography

It’s one of the happiest times in your life. You’re pregnant. You’re glowing and over-the-moon in love with the baby your body is creating. During the hustle and bustle of preparing for your newborn, you’ve made a point to book Glen Carbon, Illinois newborn photographer Conner James Photography. Owner and photographer Christine specializes in maternity and newborn photography, she even has her own home-studio in Edwardsville, Illinois. Not only is she a pro at what she does, but she also helps guide you through this exciting time. Because when it comes to newborn photography, you have questions - lots of questions. So take a few minutes for an easy read while this Glen Carbon photographer walks you through a few things she is most commonly asked.

Christine is often asked: “What are the best stages of pregnancy for maternity photos?” The St. Louis newborn photographer recommends having your photos done between 30 and 36 weeks. That’s if you’re having one baby and you are not a high-risk pregnancy. So, around month seven and eight your baby bump is typically round and pronounced. It’s pretty clear that you’re expecting but you’re not heavy to the point that you’re uncomfortable. Some maternity sessions can involve quite a bit of movement so you want to avoid doing anything that could induce early labor. But not to worry, Edwardsville, Illinois newborn photographer Conner James Photography is an expert at posing and staging all mama’s-to-be.

Another question Christine hears is: “When should I book my session if I’m having twins?” If you’re pregnant with multiples, things change a bit. Your baby bump will be much more prominent at a much earlier stage in the pregnancy. St. Louis photographer Christine recommends having your maternity photos taken between 24 and 30 weeks. Some mama’s expecting multiples start to show a pronounced bump as early as 18 to 20 weeks. While Glen Carbon photographer Christine can make magic with maternity photos at any time, she still suggests you pay attention to your body. The longer you wait with multiples, your body will have to work harder to fight fatigue, swelling, uncomfortability, etc. Multiples almost always deliver early so try to plan this milestone photo opportunity accordingly. 

“Should I do things differently if I’m considered a high-risk pregnancy?” is one other common question Glen Carbon newborn photographer Christine hears. She notes that it’s definitely something to factor into your photo scheduling. You’ll want to go over your condition with your doctor so you can plan an ideal and safe time to have your maternity photos taken. Being high-risk can (but doesn’t always) put some limitations on your photo session. The good news is Edwardsville baby photographer Christine has great flexibility with her home-studio in Edwardsville, Illinois. So, if your doctor gives you location, weight or movement limitations - don’t worry. Christine will still be able to work absolute magic so you (and your bump) look simply gorgeous.

Last but certainly not least, Edwardsville, Illinois newborn photographer Christine gets asked: 

“Can I take my maternity photos if I’m past 36 weeks pregnant?” Of course you can, however, Christine makes sure of a few things this late in the game. In her Glen Carbon, Illinois home-studio, she goes above and beyond to ensure that mama is comfortable, cool, and hydrated during the entire photo session. A number of breaks are taken so mama can rest and snack as she needs to. But to sum it up, as long as mama-to-be is mobile and feeling up to a maternity photo session, it can and will be done - professionally, simply, and beautifully by St. Louis newborn photographer Conner James Photography.

Outgoing Links:

1.[Collinsville, IL Chambers of Commerce](https://www.collinsvilleil.org/business/chamber-of-commerce)

2.[Maternity Webpage](https://www.connerjamesphotography.com/maternity)

3.[Book Now Webpage](https://www.connerjamesphotography.com/booknow)

4.[Edwardsville IL & Glen Carbon IL Chamber of Commerence](https://www.edglenchamber.com)

5.[T&C Ultrasound](https://www.tncultrasound.com)

6.[Glen Carbon Walmart](https://www.walmart.com/store/256-glen-carbon-il)

7.[Expertise](https://www.expertise.com/)

8.[Professional Photographers of America](https://www.ppa.com/)

Sibling Photos: Expectations vs. Reality

Sibling photos are worth everything to parents. Seeing all your babies together is an amazing feeling. Watching all your children interact with each other and giving hugs and kisses, what could be better than that? The day is here. You’ve been anticipating this for months. Is this going to work out? Are you expecting too much? Too little? Will today be an epic failure? Maybe an absolute success? Read on to learn more.

A newborn photo session can be stressful for new parents. They can even be stressful for second or third time parents, especially if siblings are involved. But baby photographer Conner James Photography in Glen Carbon, Illinois can make these photos fun, quick, and simple.

For the most part, the siblings participating are toddler age - around two to five years old. When you think of a family, with a newborn, plus a toddler or two, in a photography studio, it can certainly seem overwhelming. It’s important to go into the photo session prepared for any and everything. Let all of your expectations fly out the window and embrace the reality of how things will likely really go. Let’s dive into this further.

Expectation: My toddler will smile and pose and love the camera; this will be easy.

Reality: If your toddler is a tad on the tired side or even a little bit hungry, this can make things really difficult as they will likely become ornery and uncooperative. This happens all the time so try to schedule your photo session for a time when your toddler is well rested and fed. Edwardsville, Illinois newborn photographer Conner James Photography has a knack for keeping toddlers interested, engaged and having fun - even when they are tired and hungry. So if you’re looking for a baby photographer with this kind of know-how; look no further!

Expectation: My toddler loves our newborn; he/she won’t be jealous.

Reality: During a newborn photo session, your toddler could experience some jealousy when all eyes are on the new baby. Talk to your toddler before the photos and let them know they are just as interesting and important as their baby brother/sister. And don’t be surprised if your toddler needs some time to play a bit or rest during the photos. This is normal and to be expected. Christine with Conner James Photography in Glen Carbon, Illinois, is a success in anticipating toddler behavior while their photos are being taken. She’s just as good at coaching littles through their photos as she is with coaching overwhelmed, sleep-deprived parents. 

Expectation: My toddler is a good listener and will do exactly what we say.

Reality: Sure, this can happen in any newborn/sibling photo session. But, don’t be surprised if things go awry when it’s your turn. Think about it: your child is dressed up, in a photography studio, they’re being told how to sit, stand, lay down, smile, hold their baby brother/sister, etc. It’s a lot for them to take in, not to mention they too are adjusting to life with a newborn. With over a decade of experience, Christine with Conner James Photography is a newborn photographer unlike any other. She is pure magic. She gets small children to absolutely love having their photos taken, while also behaving, listening and following directions. So, do yourself a favor and book St. Louis Photographer Conner James Photography for your newborn session.

Outgoing Links:

1.[Book Now Webpage](https://www.connerjamesphotography.com/booknow)

2.[Collinsville, IL Chambers of Commerce](https://www.collinsvilleil.org/business/chamber-of-commerce)

3.[Conner James Photography Inc Tiktok](https://www.tiktok.com/@connerjamesphotography)

4.[T&C Ultrasound](https://www.tncultrasound.com)

5.[Village of Glen Carbon IL Website](https://www.glencarbonil.gov/)

Edwardsville IL Newborn Photographer Conner James Photography The Best Age for Newborn Photos

You’re lying in your hospital bed. You’re swollen. You’re sore. You’re exhausted. And you’re in love. You’re not laying there alone. A very tiny baby is in your company, and not just any baby - YOUR newborn. Congratulations! You’re a mommy! 

The first few days after having your baby is a complete whirlwind. All these things (and a whole lot more) are on your mind:

• Feeding

• Pumping

• Sleeping

• Pediatricians

But wait, there is one more important thing you MUST add to that list; newborn photos. Don’t worry though, we’ve done your homework for you so you can spend less time searching the web. Glen Carbon, Illinois baby photographer, Conner James Photography is your go-to newborn and even family photographer. Just make sure you get your little bundle of joy scheduled sooner rather than later.

The best age to take newborn photos is within the first two weeks (6-14 days) of the baby being born. Why? Because this is when your newborn sleeps the most, which makes it easier to get the best poses. It’s true, though, that this recommendation may differ from photographer to photographer, but it’s pretty well agreed upon that the best newborn pictures are taken when the baby is sleepiest and still curled up like in the womb.

Usually by the time your newborn is six days old, he/she is on a pretty consistent feeding schedule of every two to three hours. This is great for photos so the session isn’t interrupted every 20-30 minutes for the newborn to eat. Not to mention, it’s also less stressful for mom.

Most parents want those “melt-your-heart” newborn pictures where their baby is fast asleep, wrapped up like a ball, placed in a bucket or a bowl, and adorned with the sweetest headband or hat. While this is pretty effortless when your newborn is in the 6-14 day window, there are a few talented baby photographers who can successfully achieve these poses when the baby is older. Edwardsville, Illinois newborn photographer Conner James Photography is proudly among those few. 

If your photos get taken when your newborn is 15+ days old, that’s okay! They just might need more settling to fall asleep and require a bit more work to pose. Also, don’t be surprised if your newborn is awake and alert in many of the photos. It’s always sweet to capture your little ones open eyes when they’re so young, however, since they can’t focus yet, they could appear cross-eyed in pictures. But with Glen Carbon, Illinois newborn photographer Conner James as your pro behind the lens, you don’t have to worry. You will receive the most beautiful newborn photos once it’s all said and done. 

When you hit the 30 day (or one month mark), your newborn will certainly be awake during their photo session. At this point, the baby may resist those swaddled, sleepy poses that parents yearn for. Also, that adorable newborn curl is likely more stretched out by now, meaning the poses for your baby will differ from younger newborns. Don’t worry though, you can trust the talent behind Edwardsville, Illinois baby photographer Conner James to deliver the most precious newborn photos of your newfound love. 

Outgoing Links:

1.[Conner James Photography Inc](https://www.youtube.com/@connerjamesphotography)

2.[Edwardsville IL & Glen Carbon IL Chamber of Commerence](https://www.edglenchamber.com)

3.[T&C Ultrasound](https://www.tncultrasound.com)

4.[Professional Photographers of America](https://www.ppa.com/)

5.[Conner James Photography Mentoring](https://www.connerjamesphotography.com/mentoring)

6.[Glen Carbon Centennial Library](https://glencarbonlibrary.org/)

Newborn Sessions - Why to hire a professional photographer?

Are you about to have a baby? Or maybe you have a little newborn and need some beautiful photographs taken? Let’s be real. Having a baby will change you. From being pregnant to giving birth your whole life is forever changed. You see your baby for the first time, you hold them and look into their sweet face and you melt. You know they have your heart and soul. They have you wrapped around their tiny finger. You want to protect them and keep them safe. As a parent of four kids, this does not change even as they get older.

Newborn in multiple poses.

Newborn photography over the years has been an expanding field. There are lots of new photographers trying to learn newborn photography to start a business or established photographers are trying to expand their business. But photographing a newborn is not for the faint of heart. It is a hard job. It takes a lot patience. It takes training and even editing know how. Some poses require composite editing. A composite is an images made up of multiple images. This is done in Photoshop. By using compositing the newborn is never left unsupported and is safe at all times.

Newborn composites using Photoshop.

Newborn posing is more than just laying a baby down in a basket. It is knowing that the baby is safely posed and is in a good position to not block airways, move incorrectly, or over heat. Believe it or not there are actual newborn poses that are safe for the baby when the baby is posed correctly. This is why newborn training is so important. What if the baby has gas? What if the baby was not settled enough and the photographer just laid the baby down? What if the baby has special medical restrictions? What if the baby is older than 2 weeks old? Most photographer do not like to photograph a newborn older than two weeks. What if the baby does not sleep? What if ? What if? This is why it is so important to hire a photographer who specializes in newborn photography.

Newborn at 8 weeks old.

You want to have a safe and happy experience when creating memories for you to remember your precious newborn baby. You want to remember how little he or she was. All the details and little smirks. Whether you want Conner James Photography Incorporated to be your photographer or not, I do have some recommendations. I recommend that you hire a photographer that has training in the field of photography you are looking for. Wedding photographer for a wedding, Newborn photographer for newborn photography.

Newborn little details.

I recommend hiring a professional legal business photographer. By hiring a legal business it will ensure that the business has insurance. Also your rights, and your investment will be legally covered as well. Its important to have a photographer who has insurance to make sure that in case anyone would get injured or some equipment would break, you and/or your family will be covered. Its always better to be safe than sorry. By hiring a professional you will also get high quality work while receiving professional services.

Family poses, sibling poses, and newborn poses.

Newborn Sessions can be long. It takes time and a lot of patience to pose the newborn in the poses correctly. Each pose takes time. Sometimes the baby will move out of the pose and you have to start over with the posing. By hiring a professional we know how to maximize our poses and workflow to get you a variety of poses, in a shorter amount of time.

I truly love working with newborns and families. I love creating memories to last a lifetime for generations to come. I have been photographing newborns for 9 years. it will be 10 years in December. I have photographed over 1000 newborns and counting. I also mentor/teach other photographer in the field of newborn photography. I would love to be your photographer!

Why I became a Photographer!

Do you ever feel like there are never enough hours in the day to get things done? These last couple of weeks have been busy for me. I’ve been working my other job and still photographing on the weekends. Homework is also taking over my life too. Ha ha! 

No matter how busy I am, I still love my job photographing newborns and being behind the camera. I am greatly honored to be able to help families create memories that will last forever. My photography is my passion. I do my photography not just for the money, but for my son, Conner James. He is my reason I started my photography. 

Conner James passed away very suddenly at almost 3 months old while I was on vacation. His passing was very sudden. He was my second child. At the time, I had two children. Jordynne was 1 year old and Conner who was almost 3 months. I was a new mom of two, trying to buy a house. 

When Conner was born, we were still searching for a new house. We had brought him home to our old house and a month later we moved to a apartment. We couldn’t really afford newborn pictures. We had two kids in diapers, buying formula, and trying to save money for the new move. It was also hard to afford the hospital photos. 

When Jordynne was born we bought the hospital photos. We paid over $400.00 for the photos. The photos took a month to arrive at our door. When we received them, we notice that we didn’t order enough as we have a big family. We had to order more spending another $150.00 and waiting another month and half to receive them. The photos themselves we good quality but the posing of Jordynne we weren’t really happy with. But we were new parents and didn’t know any better.  

When we had Conner and with the anticipation of the move we decided to go a different route for newborn photos. We choose Walmart Picture Me Studios. They had a special going on for a package so we decided we would just go with them. A mistake I have regretted for years. After Conner passed, those photos are all I have left from when he was a newborn. 

I have some other photos I took of him while we were at home, and some at the hospital but not much else. I know we were busy with the move and taking care of two kids but now I wish and long for more photos of my little boy. He was a very sweet boy who loved to cuddle and be held. If you are a client, most likely I have told you what happened to him. I wouldn’t wish this for any mother. It will be 10 years this year since Conner has passed and my regret for the newborn photos still remains the same. 

I started my photography for my son, and for other families like mine who couldn’t possibly afford the price of $200 - $1000’s, that it could cost. For the new families just starting and for the families going through financial hardships, that they may have newborn photos done by someone who specializes in the field, creating special memories that they will cherish, and by someone who cares about their family.