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2021 COVID-19 Update: Standard Studio Safeguards and Procedures to Protect Our Petite, Precious Clients
2021 COVID-19 Update for Sarah Borchgrevink Photography’s Houston Newborn Portrait Studio
UPDATE: As of April 19th, 2021, we are vaccinated against the COVID-19 Virus.
We are keeping our studio and office workplace safe.
Today's blog post is about tips and tricks for creating a safe, healthy, and responsible work environment when photographing young infants, expecting mothers, and grandparents. At Sarah Borchgrevink Photography, we're a husband and wife team! Together, we work cohesively to create a luxury experience for Houston area parents. Part of the experience is ensuring safety at all times. It is best to act with caution, perceive risks, and maintain a scheduled set of habits, resulting in a safe workplace for all visitors. We are committed to work arrangements and schedules designed to protect everyone.
As we pass the first anniversary for social distancing, quarantine, and all the terms such as "CDC Guidelines," we are very grateful for the parents who entrust us to document milestones in your life.
The following are standards and expectations we uphold throughout the year, no matter the season. We share these to create transparency, though also educating our clients on the lengths we go to exceed safety and sanitary expectations.
Please note, as of March 2020, masks and gloves are required for all photoshoots. Moreover, on March 10th, 2021, our Governor (Greg Abbott) removes the mandatory mask. However, our studio requires macts. We will not be removing our masks or gloves. We plan to be vaccinated as soon as the vaccine is available to us, based on our age and health status.
Sarah Borchgrevink Photography COVID-19 Update
REQUIREMENTS FOR ENTERING THE BUILDING
The Building bars from entry any individual with COVID-19 symptoms or who has been exposed to someone with the virus.
Individuals are required to practice social distancing wherever feasible. This includes the building lobby, elevators, corridors, deli, and restrooms.
Face masks are required when entering the building and in all common areas (building lobby, elevators, corridors, deli, and restrooms). Face masks are not a substitute for proper social distancing.
Daily Commercial Grade Cleaning Service
Our studio and office are located within a commercial office space at 4550 Post Oak Place Drive. Part of our lease includes a regular commercial-grade cleaning service that visits each evening. We also have a service visit between sessions such as cake smashes, family photoshoots, and newborn appointments. Our daily cleaning service includes vacuuming, mopping, sweeping, emptying trash, wiping all surfaces, dusting, and cleaning our doorknobs, handles, changing tables, and even the furniture. The professional cleaning service will even visit between our sessions if requested.
With COVID-19, however, the cleaning crew is implementing CDC guidelines.
Razor Antimicrobial Cleaning | CDC GUIDELINES 2020
The building includes RAZOR Micro-Biostatic Surface Protection in all areas such as doors, handles, elevators, restrooms, common areas, light switches, keyboards, desks, changing tables, and more. The RAZOR chemical adheres to the surface and provides a protective shield against germs. The RAZOR technology is a fog-applied antimicrobial coating for porous and non-porous surfaces.
RAZORTM IS A PATENTED, EPA REGISTERED, INNOVATIVE NEW PRODUCT. • THE RAZORTM TECHNOLOGY IS A FOG-APPLIED ANTIMICROBIAL COATING FOR POROUS AND NON- POROUS SURFACES. • RAZORTM ANTIMICROBIAL COATING GIVES SUBSTRATES AN ADDED LEVEL OF PROTECTION AGAINST DAMAGING MICROBES SUCH AS BACTERIA, MOLD, AND MILDEW.
Separate Newborn Photoshoot Room
Our studio is 1,300 square feet. Part of a spacious studio keeps our newborn clients separate from the other parts of our studio, such as the lifestyle maternity, family, or baby milestone rooms. Our newborn room is for new arrivals only and is only used for brand new babies.
Sanitizing Props and Wardrobe
Every single prop is sanitized between use. This means that any item that is touched or worn during a photoshoot is cleaned appropriately. Our motherhood gowns, for example, visit the dry cleaners after each use. Our newborn wraps, backdrops, and other textiles are washed in Dreft between sessions, too. We never use the same prop two times in one day. All buckets, bowls, baskets, and other floor props are wiped down between soap and water. Our more delicate pieces, such as bonnets, are hand-washed along with flokati rugs.
Photoshoots are by Appointment Only
To protect our clients and keep traffic to a minimum, we photograph sessions by appointment only. This safeguard allows us to have fewer visitors and ensures that each prop has time to be cleaned before use. We set up a day in advance; after the session, the accessories are immediately prepared for cleaning. Appointment only is a great way to reduce germs by not accepting too many people at one time. This also allows our cleaning service to be used as needed without any surprises.
Fully Vaccinated and Insured
Aside from being the mommy to four young children, I have taken multiple newborn safety workshops in addition to professional mentoring. These courses train photographers on how to safely and beautifully pose precious babies. Workshop topics also cover editing, lighting, soothing, flow, strategies, and creative methods to provide breathtaking setups and styling. A reputable baby photographer has invested thousands of hours into honing their craft. Moreover, to provide a further network of newborn safety, the studio is fully vaccinated and runs an entirely legal, tax-paying insured business.
Breaks Between Appointments
Our online scheduling calendar is set where a break is scheduled between sessions to reduce traffic in the studio. A break allows Kevin and me to tidy up and sanitize anything needed. The cleaning service also visits during this time, too.
Ask to see sample products for professional prints and heirloom pieces.
As of 2020, all of our heirloom albums, prints, and other professional product samples are kept on a separate shelf and are wiped down between use. While you’re always welcome to browse the beautiful options available for purchase, the heirloom and archival products are stored on a shelf to prevent the spreading of germs.
No Shoes or Strollers in the Shooting Rooms
Studio policy states that shoes and strollers are allowed in the lobby only and not in the areas in which young infants are photographed. We ask you; please remove your shoes upon arriving. Feel free to wear a comfy pair of socks. Strollers are left in the mothers’ room or our studio playroom and lobby.
Handwashing and Disinfectant
Studio policy requests parents to wash their hands upon arriving. Kevin and I do so, too. We also have hand sanitizer in each room of our studio and welcome you to use it as much as you would like.
Masks and gloves are now required as of May 2020.
Sick Child Rescheduling Policy
Studio policy states we reschedule your session, without penalty, to another available date if you or a member of your family is ill. We are very flexible and understand illnesses happen last minute. We appreciate your time, though we also respect your well-being and look forward to seeing you on a day when everyone feels their best. It's best that little ones who feel unwell stay home. We can always add your session to a later date, and it's best to act with caution and perceive risk than risk the health of other infants, parents, or loved ones.
As always, we welcome any questions or concerns! We hope to see you soon and have a wonderful session!
Warmly,
Sarah and Kevin
Questions About Houston Newborn Photography? We Have Answers!
Top-rated baby, infant, and newborn photographer, Sarah Borchgrevink, answers the most popular questions.
At What age should newborn photos be taken?
The best time to photograph a new baby is in the first 14 days of life. There is, however, a "sweet spot" in which 5-9 days is best. Newborn babies have spent nine months growing in a tight space. The sooner they're photographed, the more likely they are to cooperate. For a sleepy, curly, and oh-so-squishy demeanor, try to book as soon as your little one is earthside. The studio offers flexible scheduling through an online booking calendar. The studio also provides different packages catering to newer and older newborn babies. If your baby spent time in the NICU, there are options for you, too.
What is the cost and pricing of Houston Newborn Photography?
Package pricing is transparent and straightforward. Our studio focus is selling full-resolution, retouched JPEG digital files and an unlimited print release you may use infinitely. Newborn packages begin at $550 and range to $1150. See a fully transparent pricing menu.
One flat rate includes studio time, design, wardrobe, proofing, retouching, and your gallery of impeccably edited full-resolution JPEG images available for instant digital download.
We offer six days per week availability as well as a 14 day turnaround time throughout the year. Rush editing is available for purchase.
There are no in-person sales appointments, minimum print orders, separate session fees, or hidden fees. Select the package with the number of digital files you'd like to receive.
Included in all packages is access to our client closet; you may also add stunning airbrush makeup and hair artistry with our featured vendor. Feel free to browse Sarah’s Favorite Dresses Available to You.
What is the best lighting for newborn photography?
The best lighting for newborn photography can be natural or studio lights.
Both options are beautiful and create stunning works of art. At Sarah Borchgrevink Photography, our studio is the premier and highly sought after option for discerning parents to consider because we offer both natural and studio lighting.
Our family photos are light, bright, and airy, occurring in our all-white lifestyle room. However, our posed newborn images arise in our newborn infant room, so you're sure to have soulful and dynamic images featuring shadows, contours, and perfect highlights. Have no fear: our studio lighting is never harsh, though it features ambient lighting. It is a natural and soft light that mimics sunlight from a nearby window. Constant white studio lights are also a practical option and won't cause the baby's skin to look red and warm.
What to bring to your baby’s first professional photoshoot
Our studio provides everything for your session. We have everything for the gorgeous newborn portraits in the Greater Houston Area from motherhood wardrobe and luxury props, accessories, and styling. All you need to bring is your Baby and preferred method of feeding your new bundle of joy. We even provide snacks, diapers, and wipes and have a lovely playroom for your children to use while photographing the new sibling. See more about the Highest Rated Houston Newborn Portrait Studio on Google.
All props are classic, rustic, organic, and vintage. I have a huge selection for you to consider. I have everything from baskets, bowls, buckets, crates, newborn beds, cradles, pails, etc. I also have every color of back drop, hat, bonnet, and a huge selection of gorgeous head bands. There is also a matching wrap for every color of backdrop I have, too.
What does it mean to specialize in newborn photography?
Sarah and Kevin, owners of Sarah Borchgrevink Photography, specialize in posed infant photography within a studio setting.
Specializing in posed newborn photography means you portrait artist has invested time, funds and has experience in one specific niche within the photography market. They're the "go-to" in the area for one genre. You set yourself apart by hyper-focusing on one genre, being one of the top photographers in your area, and continually looking to improve, thus offering an incredible experience and final product to your clients. You photograph what you love and do it well, all while being okay with giving up everything else. For example, I am exclusively photographing newborn babies these days.
I am genuinely excited about this and the opportunity to build and grow my newborn brand. When selecting a newborn photographer, it's essential to choose someone who does specialize because you can be sure they take their job very seriously, are committed, and love the type of portraiture you've commissioned. It's perfectly okay to be a photographer who likes one area. In areas where it's a once in a lifetime session, such as newborn portraits or weddings, it is best to hire a professional who has a firm grasp on the content they're photographing.
vWHAT PRECAUTIONS DO YOU TAKE TO KEEP BABY SAFE?
Feel free to browse our Newborn Safety & Sanitation Policy for a list of daily safeguards implemented to protect our most petite, precious clients. Masks and gloves required for all sessions as well as CDC Approved Guidelines.
Newborn safety, handling, and proper posing are absolute of the utmost importance during our time together! Your baby must be treated with love, care, and respect. While they're very sweet and limber, many precautions must be taken to keep them safe. Keeping baby content is also essential. A few ways I safeguard my sessions are the following:
The studio is kept at a toasty 77 degrees since the baby will be naked for some of our session. They cannot regulate their body temperature as well as an adult, so this keeps them warm.
The studio is sanitized, and every item is cleaned between babies. We mopping with Lysol, wiping out the trashcan, spraying door handles with disinfectant, washing all linens and textiles in baby-friendly laundry soap, such as Dreft, and wiping out all props with gentle soap, so they're clean for the next little one who comes to the studio. Our studio also has a daily professional cleaning service visiting complying with all COVID-19 guidelines.
Composites are always utilized for more advanced posing.
Bottoms of baskets and buckets are weighted down with 20 pounds of weight, so the baby never tips forward and is never in any risk of danger.
Keeping the studio space smoke free
Never leaving baby unattended or taking your eyes off of baby, even for a brief moment. Kevin assists in all newborn photography sessions.
We are mindful to read the baby's queues so as not to strain their muscles or joints.
We are making sure to keep the baby's autonomy in mind. If the baby dislikes a pose, we move on. It is not fair to baby to force them into a position or prop if they're uncomfortable.
Are you vaccinated and insured?
A newborn photographer should NEVER work with infants if they're not vaccinated or insured. As a professional business, you must have business and liability insurance, as well as legal documents showing you're running a legitimate business. Professional standards mean dealing with a true professional and not someone who is doing this as a side business, with zero to little training. Being vaccinated ensures baby is also in a safe environment. Since our little ones do not yet have a developed immune system, every precaution must be taken to keep them safe. Things like the flu are devastating to a newborn, similar to whooping cough.
HAVE YOU TAKEN WORKSHOPS OR MENTORED UNDER ANOTHER PROFESSIONAL?
Newborn workshops typically focus on things such as soothing babies, posing, handling, lighting, retouching, session flow, and how to read baby's queues. As an experienced newborn photographer, safety is my top priority. I have taken workshops and mentored, too. Safety courses are how I learned about newborn photography. Security is one of the most critical elements to consider when you're hiring someone. Workshops ensure your baby is handled correctly with love and care; they're posed the correct way; they're never placed in a dangerous or compromising position.
Why should parents hire a professional for their infant photoshoots?
There are two things; however, a parent should never compromise on: newborn safety and experience. Hiring a true professional is a decision you'll never regret making.
In the world of photography, there are many things you should take note. Because babies can be hurt during a newborn session if an inexperienced photographer mishandles them, you should always use a reputable, experienced, and professionally trained photographer. It's a smart idea to research them. Ask for an in-person consultation. Visit their studio. Look at their reviews. Ask friends about the experience if you know someone who used their services. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Moreover, does this person seem comfortable working with babies, is open and approachable, and someone you can see providing care for your little one in the 2-3 hours they're in the studio?
It's tempting to use a family friend or someone who does not specialize in newborn photography because their prices are so low, but these people are not running legal businesses or are trained to work with babies. My newborn photography is how I feed my family, and I am a full-time business owner. I take great pride and care in my work.
If the pricing is low, it's because they're not paying taxes, and they're undercutting the market for those of us who follow the rules. They have not mentored, taken workshops, or know what they're doing. You get what you pay for, and your newborn session will probably be a disappointment if you use someone who is not qualified to work with the most precious clients. I say this not out of malicious intent, but because many parents have told me they did not do enough research with their first baby and assumed all newborn photography is the same. It's not, and your baby should be handled by someone who knows how to work with newborns, the same way your wedding should be photographed by someone who knows how to work with large events + couples.
What areas of Houston do Sarah and Kevin serve?
Bursting with charm and culture, as the largest city in Texas – Houston is vibrant and diverse, flourishing with young families. And we love it! Recognized as the top-rated newborn photographer in the area since 2016, the Sarah Borchgrevink Photography studio is beautifully equipped and well located in the heart of the thriving Uptown district. We happily serve all major Houston neighborhoods and surrounding cities, including:
· Memorial
· Downtown
· Bellaire
· Rice Village
· West University
· Katy
· The Woodlands
· Pearland
· And more!
Sarah delights in each opportunity to capture treasured maternity, newborn and infant milestone memories with local families. It’s easy to start planning your in-studio photography session or get more details on package memberships that will allow you to preserve each unique phase of your baby’s development.
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OFFICE & STUDIO ADDRESS:
Sarah Borchgrevink Photography, LLC
4550 Post Oak Place Drive, Suite 203, Houston TX 77027
Please note all newborn sessions take place in our studio and we do not offer home newborn photography
STUDIO HOURS & 6 DAYS PER WEEK AVAILABILITY:
Studio sessions, consultations, and gown fittings occur during the hours below. Sarah and Kevin are a husband and wife team with six days/week availability. Sundays are no longer available as our studio's commercial office building is located within stopped offering air conditioning on Sundays in response to COVID-19.
M-F from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Saturday 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 pm
Sunday: Closed
OUTDOOR, ON-LOCATION PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY HOURS
Outdoor sessions (maternity or family) are scheduled outside studio hours at sunrise and 30 minutes before sunset. Due to the tentative nature of outdoor sessions, these occur at different times throughout the year. Would you please e-mail directly as our online calendar is for studio appointments only?
We offer ten outdoor appointments per month. If weekends are your preference, please consider booking as early as possible.
STUDIO HOURS & 7 DAY PER WEEK AVAILABILITY:
Studio sessions, consultations, and gown fittings occur during the hours below. Sarah and Kevin are a husband and wife team with 7 day/week availability.
M-F from 9:30 am - 3:00 pm
Saturday and Sunday are 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
OUTDOOR, ON LOCATION PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY HOURS
Outdoor sessions (maternity or family) are scheduled outside of studio hours at sunrise and 30 minutes before sunset. Due to the tentative nature of outdoor sessions, these occur at different times throughout the year. Please e-mail directly as our online calendar is for studio appointments only.
We offer 10 outdoor appointments per month. If weekends are your preference, please consider booking as early as possible.