Oaklynn’s Newborn Session
Merrill, WI Newborn Photographer
Sweet baby Oaklynn was born just in time for Christmas! Her parent’s love for rustic, outdoorsy vibes paired perfectly with the approaching holiday.
But just because you have a holiday baby doesn’t mean those are the only types of pictures we can take. I love getting to know more about you and your family before your session to find out what colors, themes, props you would love to have as part of your session. Allan and Angela loved woodsy and florals in addition to some subtle Christmas photos. So that’s exactly what we did. And of course if you are obsessed with the holiday your baby is born near, we can definitely go all out!
Oaklynn brought a proud big sister and grandma to her session! We were able to capture some really sweet family memories that I hope they will treasure forever. And of course Santa just had to make a special appearance too!
Is Photoshop Magic? What Can You Edit?
Is Photoshop magic? Sadly no, it’s not. But it can do some pretty cool things that seem like magic sometimes! Even Photoshop has limitations though. It’s a common misconception that anything and everything can be “edited” out or fixed with this program. Here’s quick (not complete) run down of common things Photoshop can and cannot do!
1.) Distractions from the background. Most of the time additional people, signs, houses, or other distractions can be erased from the background. There are some exceptions, if the program can’t find enough data to replace the object/person that needs to be removed you might be stuck with it in your final picture. There are some tips and tricks photographers can use to “outsmart” Photoshop, but it’s not appropriate for every image. Photographers will do their best to choose locations and setups that are clear or easily editable.
2.) Skies. During sessions we don’t always get lucky and get beautiful skies with lots of color or big fluffy clouds. But that’s one thing that can usually be fudged in Photoshop. This can be done in one of a few ways. Sometimes the beautiful sky is “hidden” and we can bring it back and make it pop with a few setting changes. Other times, we need to take a sky from another image and overlay it over the image. Things to remember - not every sky works for every image. The lighting of the sky you’re overlaying the image with needs to work for that photo. For example, if you took a picture on a grey, cloudless day, adding a beautiful sunset to that photo will look out of place.
3.) Blemishes and other minor skin fixes - This is especially important for newborn photos! Most newborns are not blessed with smooth, clear skin. When you bring your newborn in for a session they have usually scratched their face, have milk crust on their face, they may have baby acne or other irritated skin. All of this is totally normal! But most parents don’t want to remember those types of details. Photoshop has the perfect tools for editing skin. And it’s not just for newborns either. Senior sessions can often require quite a bit of retouching. Some adults ask for skin smoothing to remove acne or soften wrinkles as well. These are all easy edits!
4.) Logos on clothing and other clothing fixes - Sometimes logos and images on clothing can be edited out. However, this is NOT something you should expect your photographer to do. It takes a significant amount of time to fix clothing in Photoshop (and can even be beyond the average photographer’s expertise). Wrinkles, patterns, and ill fitting clothing are outside the photographers control and will not be corrected by the photographer. Minor stains on children can be edited out, but only if they are small.
5.) Hair and makeup! Your photographer may make minor adjustments or corrections to hair. This would include things like small fly aways. But Photoshop cannot change your hair or makeup. Your photographer will not be able to edit out grey hairs, or add lash extensions for you during the editing process. During the session we will do everything we can to catch any hair, makeup or wardrobe issues but at the end of the day it is the client’s responsibility to come ready for their session.
If you’re unsure if something can be corrected during the editing process, just ask (before the photos are taken)! If something is easily editable , we are more than happy to do it for you! Have more questions? Feel free to contact me!
How to pick outfits for your family photos
How to choose the perfect outfit for your next session. Tips and tricks on elevating your photoshoot. Photography by Brooke is a photographer based out of Merrill WI, that services the Wausau, Mosinee, Weston, Antigo, and surrounding areas.
How do I pick outfits for our family photos? What colors go best together? Should we all match? Should we wear clothes with words or images? These are all very common questions I’m asked before every photo session.
Picking outfits for you and your family is one of the more stressful aspects of preparing for your photo session.
I’m here today to offer some guidance, and hopefully help remove some of the stress for you.
“Let’s talk color!”
I know you’re all just reading this to find out how to pair colors! That’s alright! And I have a super simple trick for you!
Head to (you can also just Google color palette ideas):
https://www.canva.com/colors/color-palettes/
This site offers tons of color palettes for you to view. You can search things like spring, autumn, rust, blue, etc to get inspo.
Once you’ve found a palette that you like (like the example below) you are ready to start shopping! These colors go together well and you can start basing your outfits off this color grouping.
Such a simple trick, but so effective!
“Layers, Layers, Layers”
Beyond colors, there’s a lot of other aspects to take into consideration! Being in Northern Wisconsin the temps can swing wildly from day to day. Should you plan for short sleeves or will you need a winter coat?
I suggest to families that have their sessions in the spring or fall months to plan on layers. Layers you can take off or put on as the session goes on. Photo sessions aren’t stand still events, you’ll be moving most of the time. So you might start out cold, but get toasty!
Cardigans or zip up sweaters are both great options! A blanket that’s big enough to wrap around you, fashion coats, or a shawl are good alternatives.
“Keep it simple”
Here’s a few general rules to follow when getting ready for your shoot.
Matching family outfits can be fun (Christmas jammies!) - in the right setting. In general though, simple is better.
Avoid graphic t shirts, especially those with really bright colors. Solid colors photograph better, and fit in everywhere.
Steer clear of shirts with a lot of words. They are difficult to read in photos and often get cut off while you’re moving around. Think simple.
Refrain from choosing bright colors (anything in the neon family) and busy patterns.
“Pro Tip!”
Don’t forget about your shoes. You can have a killer outfit, but the effect can be completely ruined with shoes that don’t match. Guys tend to be the bigger offenders on this one. Ladies, I recommend doing a double check of your hubby before you leave.
“Always here to help you!”
If you’re really struggling on your outfit, it is perfectly ok to reach out to your photographer before the session and ask for advice. The last thing we want is for you to be uncomfortable at your session.
A couple of things to keep in mind -
Your photographer is not responsible for you hating your outfit. They are also not responsible for clothing that is wrinkled, creased, or covered in pet hair. Photoshop is amazing, but it’s not magic - it also takes a lot of time to edit (and not everything is fixable).
As always, if you have a question or need help, reach out! Photography by Brooke wants you to love your photos for years to come and is always happy to help!
What is a model call? And why do you do them?
What’s a model call? Why would you do one? What do I get out of it? All this and more! Merrill WI Newborn Photographer, Merrill WI Photographer, Wausau WI Newborn Photographer, Wausau WI Photographer, Mosinee WI Newborn Photographer, Mosinee WI Photographer, Weston WI Newborn Photographer, Weston WI Photographer, Antigo WI Newborn Photographer, Medford WI Newborn Photographer, Northern WI Newborn Photographer, North Central WI Newborn Photographer
Many of you may not be familiar with what a model call is, or why photographers do them - I’m here to give you more insights!
So what’s a model call anyway?
A model call is a free or reduced session that a photographer hosts to practice new techniques, styles, or for a specific project. Model calls are great for photographers because they provide a low/no pressure situation for the tog to practice or create a specific vision.
Why don’t you just practice on your friends?
We do! Sadly our friends aren’t always available, might not be interested in the particular vision we’re trying to create, or be the right fit for the session we need them for.
If it’s a model call, how much say do I get in the session?
That’s the catch - a model call is usually for the photographer to create something for themselves, or to practice on something they don’t normally do. In exchange for the free session you are giving up control. Meaning the photographer picks the props, colors, location, etc. But you still get gorgeous images to keep.
Will you take anyone?
No. The requirements vary by session type and what the photographer is hoping to achieve through their model call. For newborn model calls the photographer might be looking for a boy or girl specifically, have age restrictions as well as physical requirements (such as a baby with hair). These will be communicated to potential candidates when they reach out.
What are you going to do with the images?
The images could be used for a variety of purposes. Portfolio building, website images, marketing, contest entries, social media, etc.
Do I have to sign a model release?
Yes. The photographs are not helpful to the photographer if they can’t post them. While you might not be a great fit for a model call, you definitely can schedule a regular session! We completely understand if you don’t want your images shared on the web and will respect your decision.
Well that all sounds cool - I might be interested…how do they work exactly?
That is a great question! I’m so glad you asked! Send us a message! You can email us at photographybybrookewi@gmail.com or send a message on Insta or Facebook. Additional details on the session will be provided at that time.
We look forward to working with you!
Newborn Model Call Feb 2022
Photography by Brooke is looking for a model call baby for the end of February / beginning of March! Photography by Brooke is located in North Central Wisconsin, in Merrill. Photography by Brooke is a photographer that specializes in newborn, maternity and family photography.
We are looking for a newborn model call for the end of February 2022! Interested? Read on to learn how you can find out more information.
Who are we looking for?
Newborn boy or girl between the ages of 5-21 days at the end of February/ beginning of March
When is the session to be?
The session will be on a weekday between Wed Feb 23 and Wed March 2 2022
Where will the session be?
At Photography by Brooke’s in home studio in Merrill Wisconsin (address will be provided to those that are selected)
What do I get?
You will get a free session (baby only) which lasts 2-3 hours
3 free digitals for your time
Option to purchase additional images, prints or products!
What do I have to do?
Send us an email or DM on Facebook or Insta with your contact information.
Complete a short survey
Send us a picture of your baby without a hat
Outdoor Newborn Sessions
Outdoor newborn sessions are so much fun! Wisconsin is a great place to capture some beautiful images.
Here in Merrill Wisconsin we are truly blessed with some gorgeous weather - I’m often asked if I can do outdoor newborn sessions. The answer is YES! And here’s some things you should know -
1.) Outdoor newborn sessions can be done between April and October (as weather allows).
2.) Sessions will not be conducted outdoors when the weather is over 80 degrees as it is too hot for the baby, recovering mom and photographer.
3.) Sessions will not be conducted outdoors when the weather is less than 60 degrees, as baby’s comfort and safety is the top priority. Babies like to be warm and cozy, when they are uncomfortable sessions do not go well.
4.) Colors and props will be limited and typically selected by the photographer (with client input of course!).
5.) Summer session locations will be at the discretion of the photographer - usually these sessions need to be somewhere that has a lot of shade. This is both for lighting purposes and for the comfort of everyone at the shoot.
Want to schedule your own session?
Contact me here!
Molly’s 6th Birthday Session
Photography by Brooke is located in Merrill Wisconsin and is a full service photographer servicing the Merrill, Wausau, Mosinee, and greater North Central Wisconsin area.
It’s Molly’s 6th birthday! What better way to celebrate than with a session? Molly is a very girly young lady. She loves everything that has to do with sparkles, makeup, unicorns, dresses - she loves it all! So I just knew I had to get Molly some over the top, beautiful, princess-esque dresses to celebrate. We had three distinct looks.
First up was this gorgeous pink number. It’s really everything a little girl could ever wish for. It has a lacy overskirt embroidered with flowers and leaves. The back is corseted so it’s very adjustable. This dress turned out to be a little too big for Molly, but we clipped it for the photo session.
The second dress is a lacy blue butterfly babydoll type style. Molly’s favorite color is blue, so we had to incorporate it! We finished our 6th birthday session with a boho style for some variety. Happy birthday Molly! We hope your 6th birthday was an absolute blast and 2022 is your best year yet!
All of these dresses are available in Photography by Brooke’s client closet. Children’s clothing in the client closet ranges from newborn outfits up to sizes 7/8 with new items being added throughout the year.
Photography by Brooke is a photographer specializing in newborn, maternity and family photography servicing the Merrill, Wausau, Mosinee and North Central Wisconsin areas.
Fussy Babies
Getting your picture taken is hard work!
As a newborn photographer - I have a lot of practice working with fussy babies.
You’ve just had a baby, your newborn session is all booked. You have spent the last several months fantasizing about what your baby’s newborn pictures will look like. You may even have a Pinterest board half a mile long with amazing images that you admire. You cannot wait to bring your vision to life!
The day of your session finally arrives. It’s so exciting! You get to the studio and hand the photographer your gorgeous baby. And your baby starts crying….and keeps crying…and crying…and crying.
At this point you be starting to freak out a little, this isn’t what you envisioned at all. You followed your newborn session prep guide! How can your photographer possibly get anything usable when your baby is being fussy!?!
I’m here to tell you it’s ok! And completely normal! I have many tricks to help with a fussy baby (these are just a few):
Wrapping
Feeding
Pacifier
Baby shusher
Rocking
Most babies are going to cry at least once during their session. This is totally normal and expected. It’s shocking for baby to be in a new place, to be undressed, and to be moved around multiple times. Getting your picture taken is hard work, you’d probably be fussy too! Your baby will most likely want to eat during their session, and may also need one (or more) diaper changes.
Most babies will settle after a short time, but some babies take longer. And on very rare occasions, will be too unhappy to safely pose.
Not to worry! While it’s rare that we are unable to get baby happy and sleepy, it does happen. In those situations, we simply reschedule for another day.
A couple of things that can contribute to a baby being fussier than usual at their shoot are:
Cluster feeding
Reflux or Gas
Illness
If your baby is experiencing these, it’s helpful to let your photographer know so we can discuss together and decide if we should move the session.
Your baby is the boss of their session. Their comfort and safety are Photography by Brooke’s absolute top priority.
What should I bring to my newborn session?
Let’s keep it simple! I’ll give you a simple list of everything you need (or don’t need!) to bring to your newborn session. Photography by Brooke is a newborn, maternity and family photographer servicing the Wausau, Merrill, Mosinee and surrounding areas of North Central Wisconsin.
One of the first questions I’m always asked by parents is, “What should I bring to my newborn session?” At Photography by Brooke I understand how stressful packing up your brand new baby and bringing them to the studio can be. Being a new parent, even if this isn’t your first baby, is hard! Your body is recovering, you’re getting to know a brand new human, no one is sleeping, it’s a lot. And I get it. That’s why I want to make your session as low stress and easy on you as possible.
What you should bring to your newborn session:
Diapers (2-3 should do)
Wipes
Formula or pumped breast milk
Pacifier
One special item to incorporate into your session (optional)
That’s it! I will provide the rest for you! While it doesn’t seem like a long list of items, when you’re running late it’s easy to forget one, or all of them. My studio has you covered. I always keep some extra newborn diapers, wipes and pacifiers on hand for my clients.
Additional items I provide at my studio for your session:
Newborn outfits
Wraps
Props (beds, buckets, chairs, etc.)
Backdrops
Misc decor
Snack basket
Water
Toys for siblings to play with during the session
I want your session to go as smoothly and as stress free for my families as possible. If there’s something I can do to help you be more comfortable, just ask!
Photography by Brooke serving the Wausau, Merrill, Mosinee, and surrounding areas.