There are times that social media allows us to connect with the best people – and some of them just happen to be local to Charleston! I had so much fun getting to meet Amy, the lifestyle blogger behind The Coastal Oak, and her family for their Daniel Island lifestyle newborn session. They just welcomed their third baby to the family and he is absolutely precious!

You never know how older siblings will react at newborn sessions, especially two year olds. I try to manage expectations and tell mamas to embrace the chaos. As a mom of two boys myself I have seen it all!

We give siblings lots of breaks (usually for snacks!) plus I have a few tricks up my sleeve for getting them interested in baby. Hiding a piece of parent-approved candy in baby’s swaddle helps! I always tell parents, let your big kids play and you snuggle your baby. From there the magic and sweet moments happen!

Amy’s home on Daniel Island lets in the most beautiful light, which is a photographer’s dream for a lifestyle newborn session. Plus, I am still trying to convince her to help decorate my house! I had so much fun following along with Amy’s dresser redo for Theo’s nautical nursery. Neutral nurseries just have my heart!

To hear more about Amy’s session experience and see some of her favorite images, head over to her blog post here.

lifestyle newborn session styling

Amy and her two older kiddos wore options from my Client Wardrobe for this session. This mama dress is popular for newborn sessions because its flowy, comfortable and flattering for Mama’s postpartum. And you know by now, I love soft, neutral colors for newborn sessions!

If you’re interested in seeing more of my Client Wardrobe, head over to check my Instagram story highlights! When you book you receive a link to view all of the dresses +  and select your favorites to try. I have recently started adding children’s clothing too.

Caitlyn Motycka is an award winning Charleston Family, Maternity and Newborn Photographer based out of Charleston, SC. Service areas include Mount Pleasant, Isle of Palms, James Island, Folly Beach, and surrounding areas.

If you’re interested in scheduling a maternity, newborn or family session, contact me here! Let’s take some pretty pictures together!