Fresh 48 Session Guide
A simple guide to help you prepare for your Fresh 48 newborn session
Fresh 48 sessions are designed to document your baby’s very first days of life in a natural, honest, and beautiful way. These sessions focus on connection, emotion, and all the tiny details you’ll want to remember forever. Below is everything you need to know to prepare.
Best Time for Your Session
The best lighting is during daylight hours, typically in the morning or early afternoon. Starting your session between 9am–3pm (depending on the time of year) usually provides the best natural light and the happiest baby.
I understand that delivery timing, big siblings, or hospital logistics can make this window tricky. I will always do my best to work around what’s best for your family and your baby.
Lighting (Trust Me on This One!)
Hospital lighting is… not great 😅
Overhead lights cast harsh shadows and odd color tones, so we’ll rely on natural window light as much as possible.
- Open those window blinds wide
- Turn off overhead hospital lights
- Baby’s bassinet will be placed near the window
- Family photos will be positioned in the best natural light available
This is another reason daylight sessions work best.
Feeding Baby
A full baby = a happy baby 🤍
Try to feed your baby shortly before the session so they’re relaxed and sleepy.
If you’d like feeding or nursing photos, no problem at all!
- Simply wait to feed baby until I arrive
- We’ll capture those moments first, then finish the feeding
Temperature
Turn up the heat!
Fresh 48 sessions are typically 30–60 minutes, and babies are much happier in a warm room. A cozy environment also allows for swaddled or diaper-only photos without baby getting cold.
What to Wear
For Mom:
- Hospital gown, robe, or your own outfit — totally your choice
- Soft, flowy, comfortable pieces photograph best
- Don’t stress about hair or makeup — natural is beautiful
For Dad/Partner:
- Simple and neutral works best
- Solid t-shirt or sweater with jeans or pants
Color Tips:
- Neutrals photograph beautifully in hospital settings
- Creams, tans, browns, gray, chambray, or soft jewel tones
- Avoid bright/neon colors and bold graphics or lettering
Baby Outfits
Baby does not need a full outfit. In fact, clothing often overwhelms newborns on camera BUT it's totally up to you!!
Best options:
- Hospital swaddle and hat
- Your own swaddle or blanket
- Simple hats or headbands
- Diaper-only or lightly wrapped
Outfit or blanket changes are absolutely okay, and I love mixing “hospital” photos with personal touches.
Embrace the “Hospital-Ness”
This is part of your story — and it’s beautiful.
I always love capturing:
- Hospital gowns and blankets
- Baby’s hospital hat
- Bassinet, whiteboard, room number
- Overnight bags, snacks, flowers, cards
You don’t need to clean or declutter. This session is about capturing the moment exactly as it is.
Who Should Be Present
I strongly recommend that, during the session, the only people in the room are:
- Mom
- Dad/Partner
- Baby
- Siblings
Large groups can be overwhelming for both parents and baby and can take away from the calm, intimate feel of the session.
If time allows, extended family (like grandparents) can join afterward for a few candid photos.
Siblings
If siblings are joining, I recommend having them arrive 15–20 minutes after the session begins.
This allows me to capture:
- Baby alone first
- Sweet sibling introductions
- Avoiding restless big brothers/sisters
What I Photograph
Every session is unique, but typically includes:
- Baby alone in the bassinet or bed
- Tiny details (hands, feet, lips, lashes)
- Baby with mom, dad, siblings
- Candid, emotional moments
- Details that help tell the story of your first days
There is very little posing — this is a lifestyle session focused on connection and emotion.
Session Length
Fresh 48 sessions typically last 30–60 minutes.
I know how precious this time is, so I keep sessions efficient while still capturing a full story.
You’re always welcome to send me a shot list or special ideas ahead of time.
Gallery Delivery
I know you’ll be excited to see your images!
- Social media teasers may be shared the same day (if requested)
- Full gallery is delivered via email within 1–2 days
NICU Fresh 48 Sessions
If your baby is in the NICU, you still have options:
- A NICU Fresh 48, if hospital policies allow photographers
- Or switching to an in-home newborn or welcome-home session
NICU Fresh 48s are absolutely possible as long as visitor policies allow.
What to Bring
- Baby’s name announcement (if you have one)
- A special blanket or sentimental item
- Hats, headbands, or swaddles
- Any meaningful keepsakes
Final Thoughts
These early hours are full of raw emotion, connection, and love — and it’s truly an honor to document them. You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be present.