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Many parents want to preserve those perfect early days with their newborn, all captured for a lifetime. Professional photos freeze these small, ephemeral moments and make them beautiful keepsakes in your family’s storybook. JCPenney Portrait Studios is a popular chain across the U.S., and they offer packages for specialized newborn photography. However, just how much is JCPenney newborn photography, and what do you get for the prices you pay?
This guide has all the information you need on JCPenney newborn photography prices, packages, and the overall experience. Whether you’re a first-time parent or gifting a session to that special someone, you’ll have clarity on how to budget and the things you can do to maximize your session.
What Does JCPenney Offer for Newborn Photography?

With studios usually inside JCPenney department stores, JCPenney Portrait Studios offers professional newborn and baby photoshoots in a controlled studio environment. Designed to serve families with great imagery without luxury price tags, JCPenney is known for affordability and access.
What Does a Typical JCPenney Newborn Photo Shoot Include?
Although the exact contents vary by location, you can most often expect the following JCPenney newborn photo items:
- A professional photographer with experience working with infants
- Studio time (often 30 minutes to 1 hour)
- A range of backdrops and simple props
- Access to digital viewing and ordering services
- Guidance on posing, outfit suggestions, and safety
Each session prioritizes your baby’s comfort and your family’s peace of mind. The photographers are trained to handle newborns gently, creating a calm and soothing environment.
How Much Is JCPenney Newborn Photography?

Pricing for JCPenney newborn photography is straightforward and quite budget-friendly compared to boutique studios. Though prices can differ by region and change over time, here are the most common options and their costs as of 2024:
Session Fees
- Session Fee: Starting at $14.99/week (for online bookings)
- Occasionally, in-store walk-in sessions may have standard session fees of around $24.99.
- Session fee usually includes the following:
- The photographer’s time
- Studio experience
- Basic post-processing and editing
Tip: Watch for promotional deals and online coupons, which can reduce your session fee to as low as $6.99 during special events.
Packages and Add-ons
You can choose to buy image packages after your session. JCPenney has a “pay for products, not numbers of images” policy, in which you choose afterwards how many prints, cards or digital files you would like to purchase.
Digital Image Packages
- Single Digital Image: Around $14.99
- Digital Album (all session images): $99.99 (often includes a copyright release for reprinting)
- Print and Digital Combo Packages: Range from $36.99 to $149.99, depending on the quantity and size of prints included.
Print Packages
- Basic Packages: $29.99–$39.99 (typically includes a handful of sheets in various sizes)
- Premium Packages: $59.99–$119.99 (more prints, speciality paper, and sometimes collage options)
Specialty Items
- Photo Gifts (mugs, canvases, blankets): $14.99 and up
- Custom Birth Announcements: Pricing varies; most start around $29.99 for a set
Membership and Deals
For parents who want photos throughout their child’s first year, JCPenney offers a Perks Club Membership:
- Cost: $39.99/year
- Benefits: Unlimited sessions, discounted print and digital packages, free standard prints, and exclusive offers
If you plan on capturing multiple milestones (first smile, first holidays, etc.), membership can save you money over time.
What to Expect During a JCPenney Portraits Session
Walking into a newborn photography session for the first time? Here’s what typically happens:
Warm Welcome & Check-In: Staff greet you and help finalize your preferences for backgrounds, themes, and props.
Time Allocation: Sessions usually last 30-45 minutes, allowing time for feeding breaks and gentle posing.
Multiple Setups: Photographers use a variety of backdrops, wraps, and soft props (often sanitized and newborn-safe).
Professional Guidance: Experienced photographers are skilled at soothing infants and positioning them safely for the best shots.
Gallery Viewing: After your session, you’ll preview the best images and choose your favourites for printing or digital archiving.
Tips for a Successful JCPenney Portraits Experience
Want those picture-perfect newborn photos? These tips can help ensure a soothing, successful session:
- Schedule Mid-Morning: Babies are often most restful earlier in the day post-feeding.
- Bring Comfort Items: Favorite swaddles, pacifiers, or familiar blankets can help calm your infant.
- Dress in Layers: Studios can be cool; dress your baby in layers for easy temperature regulation.
- Patience Is Key: Allow extra time for feeding, comforting, and diaper changes.
- Prep Outfits & Props: Have a few outfit choices ready and discuss prop ideas with your photographer in advance.
Choosing the Right Package for Your Needs
Selecting your JCPenney newborn photography package depends on a few factors:
- Digital vs. Print: Decide if you want digital files (for sharing or archiving) or traditional prints (for framing and gifts).
- Budget: Basic print packages offer excellent value for keepsake photos, while digital packages are great if you want all the images.
- Membership Value: If you anticipate regular family portraits (holidays, milestones), the membership can pay for itself quickly.
- A La Carte Add-Ons: Consider adding speciality products like canvases or custom birth announcements to personalize your keepsakes.
Additional Products and Services Offered by JCPenney Portraits
JCPenney doesn’t just take your baby’s photo; they offer a range of professional photo products and upgrades:
- Premium Prints: From wallet-sized to large wall art.
- Photo Books: Custom, professionally bound books featuring your session images.
- Canvases & Wall Decor: Transform favourite portraits into lasting art.
- Announcements & Greeting Cards: Personalized cards for birth announcements or holidays.
- Digital Storage: High-resolution downloads and archival-quality discs.
Booking and Scheduling Your JCPenney Portraits Session
Booking your newborn session couldn’t be simpler:
Go to the JCPenney Portraits website: The online booking tool will let you select the closest studio to you, pick your session type (newborn) and view available times.
Phone booking: Not so comfortable online? Contact your favourite studio directly.
Preparation: Once you book, you’ll receive a confirmation with preparation tips. Make sure to answer any pre-session questionnaires to express your preferences.
Arrival: Be in our space 10-15 minutes early to settle in so that your session can begin calmly.
What To Bring To JCPenney Newborn Session?
Maximize your session by showing up prepared! Here’s what most parents find helpful:
- Do bring your baby’s favourite blanket or comfort item
- Simple outfit changes (avoid complicated snaps or multiple layers)
- Any special props, hats, or accessories meaningful to your family
- Formula, snacks, or a pacifier for soothing comfort
- Extra diapers and wipes
Arriving a few minutes early allows for feeding, changing, and settling before photos begin.
Are There Extra Fees or Hidden Costs?
The session fee includes your studio time and proof access; prints, digital downloads and speciality gifts are extra. Always check what you will be charged before you buy as there is a breakdown of the price. Quoted prices typically do not include taxes and shipping (if you order print).
Potential Extra Costs
- Extra poses or outfit changes: Occasionally included, sometimes at an extra cost
- Rush delivery: An additional fee may apply if you need images sooner
- Unique props or specialized backgrounds: Additional charges may apply
Always inquire at the time of booking what is included and what could cost extra so there are no surprises when it comes to ordering your images.
Final Thought
A JCPenney newborn photography session makes it easy to capture early family memories. With transparent pricing, flexible packages, and regular promotional discounts, most families can find an option to meet their preferences and budget.
To make the most of your investment:
- Be the first to get great deals with JCPenney Portraits emails.
- If you are doing future sessions, consider membership.
- Use a combination of print and digital options for flexible mementoes.
Stunning newborn portraits celebrate the start of your family’s story. Add the right package, a little planning and a few smart savings, and you can enjoy these memories for a lifetime.
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FAQs: How Much Is JCPenney Newborn Photography
Yes, JCPenney does studio photographer newborn photographs.
Newborn photography requires special skills, safety precautions, and high-end equipment, which increases the price.
JCPenney sometimes comes around with promotions such as free session fees and even discounted packages.
A session generally lasts about 45 minutes, with 15–20 images being captured.
Yes, JCPenney offers customized maternity photography sessions.
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