Fresh 48 Newborn Photography Guide

Congratulations on your coming baby!

Hospital newborn sessions, commonly called “fresh 48 newborn sessions,” are taken 12-48 hours after delivery.

These unique newborn sessions require some additional flexibility and planning. I ask that families keep in touch with me by email near their due date and text or call me when the baby is born. From there we can choose a time for me to come to the hospital, usually the following day.

If you are having a scheduled C-section or induced labor, let me know if you would like your photoshoot on the day of the birth or the following day.

The photo shoot will use natural window light, so no flash photography will be used. I will arrive masked (and vaccinated) to photograph your session.

Ideally you want to schedule your photo shoot within the timeframe of 10am-1 pm, as this is when there is the best indoor natural light.

I recommend baby is changed, swaddled and fed shortly before my arrival. That ensures they are extra sleepy and cozy. You do not need to stress about doing your hair and makeup- some moms wear some light makeup and others go natural.

Try to tidy up the area next to the window, as this is where we will do a lot of our photographing. I will start with the baby in the bassinet, most likely by the window if available. Have any hats, headbands or swaddles on hand if you would like to include them.

For outfits, a neutral everyday look is best. Moms can wear a robe, hospital gown, solid light color cardigan or shirt, pajama pants or whatever you are most comfortable in. Dads should wear a solid color shirt. Children can wear any variety of solid color shirts, jeans or dresses. Avoid clothing that has logos, graphics or patterns. Baby is typically just swaddled in their hospital blanket, any other swaddle you prefer, a white onesie or wearing a diaper.

The only people present in the hospital room should be Mom, Dad, any siblings and baby. This is a very intimate session and should feel quiet and relaxed.

I know Mom is likely exhausted and healing, so I will make the session as efficient as possible. Typically it will last 45 minutes to 1 hour. The images will be available within one week of the session date.

These photos will help document the many “firsts” with your newborn. Thank you for allowing me to share this very special time in your lives!