Frequently Asked questions

Where is Hello Baby Studios located?

My Commercial Studio is located in Mid-McAllen near Downtown. Our address is 205 N. 16th St. McAllen

When should I schedule my session?

Maternity

Maternity portraits are best taken between 28 – 36 weeks of pregnancy, when your belly is showing nicely and before you start to feel too uncomfortable.

Newborn

For tiny newborn sessions, the ideal time is when your baby is 7-21 days old, though I also work with newborns up to 3 months. I highly recommend booking your newborn session during your second or third trimester to ensure availability. Pre-booking also gives you plenty of time to prepare for the session. Once you’re home from the hospital, please contact me within 24 hours to schedule your session.

Baby

Baby Milestones are available throughout baby’s first year, but are typically done between 4-6 months, 7-10 months and 11-12 months. One Year sessions should be held 3-4 weeks before babies first birthday to ensure their prints and images are available for their celebration.

What if my newborn is older than three weeks? 

It’s not too late to get newborn photos! Newborns that are 3-6 weeks old are still welcome to be photographed. However, know that the older the baby is, the less likely she will look or pose like a newborn. However, I will still get sweet images from the photo session.  That’s what is important!

When are sessions held?

Newborn Sessions are available on weekdays, starting at 9:30 AM, to allow plenty of time for your session. Maternity, Baby Milestone, and One-Year Sessions are also available on weekdays, from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM.

*Weekend sessions are available, but they are limited and include a $100 weekend surcharge.

Do you photograph newborns naked?

Most newborns are not comfortable being fully unclothed, so I focus on keeping your baby happy and content throughout the session. I let your baby take the lead, adjusting my approach to suit their preferences. Typically, I use gentle techniques like wrapping or lightly swaddling to ensure they feel warm and secure. If your baby is comfortable, I may dress them in neutral onesies or soft knit outfits and pose them in natural, relaxed positions for a timeless and cozy look.

Are my partner, spouse, and/or kids allowed?

Yes, absolutely! I actually encourage families to be part of the photos. My style blends posed and lifestyle photography, with much of the session focused on capturing the natural, loving moments that showcase your family's bond. Since my approach is relaxed and candid, there's no need to worry about partners or children posing perfectly. I embrace movement and genuine expressions, allowing everyone to feel comfortable and at ease.

How long will my session last?

Maternity Sessions last 45-60 Minutes. Newborn Sessions typically last 1.5-2.5 hours. Baby Milestone Sessions last 45-60 minutes. While I don’t impose strict time limits on sessions and will photograph until I’m confident I’ve captured the best images for your gallery, here are the typical time frames for reference.

Do you shoot with natural light or studio lights (flash)?

I utilize both natural light and professional-grade lighting in the studio.My studio lights are diffused so that the light from them is very soft, exactly like daytime natural light coming through white curtains. Your newborn is likely sleeping and posed in an angle that the light feathers over him/her, rather than blinding them.

How should I choose a newborn photographer?

I strongly recommend considering the style, image quality, and the photographer's experience in handling and posing newborns when choosing a photographer. While price can be a factor, it’s important to remember that the least expensive option is often the least experienced, which may affect the overall outcome of your session.

What should I do if my baby is sick?

Sick babies and photo sessions do not mix well. I want you to love your images so please reschedule! One re-schedule is permitted per session and your non-refundable retainer will transfer. Please be considerate and notify me of any changes to the date or time of the session no later than 24-48 hours prior to the session date.

Do you offer Family Sessions?

I occasionally offer Family Sessions. Outdoor Family Sessions are only available in during specific times of the year and are offered as Limited Edition Sessions.  

Do you offer on location sessions?

On-location sessions are not available at this time.

Why are your digital images so expensive?

The price of digital images reflects the time, skill, and expertise that go into creating them. This includes my photography and post-processing work, the use of professional-grade equipment, and my experience and talent. Digital images offer you complete control, allowing you to print what you want, when you want, and share your images online freely. Digital files hold significant value, and because of their versatility and quality, they are priced at a premium.

How Do I Book a Session?

In order to get your desired time and date available, book your session as early as you can. Our schedule is often booked 4 – 8 weeks in advance. 

A Session Fee is due at the time of booking in order to reserve your session. This fee is non-refundable if you cancel your session. The balance is due at your session. 

Rescheduling

Only one reschedule is permitted. Please be considerate and inform us at least 24 hours before your session. More than one reschedule will result in a rescheduling fee of $50. 

Methods of Payment

Debit Cards and Major Credit Cards. Personal checks are not accepted. Tax is automatically added to card transactions.

Refund Policy

Digital collections are not refundable.

The studio takes utmost care with respect to the development, quality and delivery of images and prints.

Mini Sessions or Limited Edition Session are non-refundable and non-transferrable.