Why to have both a fresh 48 and an in home newborn photo session

As an expectant parent you may be wondering why you should consider both a fresh 48 (or birth space) newborn photo session and an in home lifestyle photo session…particularly with all of the costs associated with bringing a new member into the family (I’m thinking strollers, carseats, etc…I totally get it).

But, one thing is for sure, that pricey stroller won’t last forever, and before you know it they’ll be holding your hand walking into Kindergarten. And that is even more reason why newborn photos are so important, as they will last a lifetime.

I’ve gotten a bit off track here, so now back to the topic at hand…

Monochrome Image of A Newborn Baby Laying On A Swaddle With A Circular Pacifier Eyes Wide Open
Monochrome Image Of A Newborn Baby Swaddled And Laying In A Hospital Bed In Front Of A Window

Capture Different Aspects of The Baby’s First Few Weeks

The fresh 48 session which happens at the hospital or birth space, is telling the story of the baby’s arrival. Documenting the place where your family grew, and includes all of the little hospital details like the bassinet, a visit from the nurse, the hospital bracelets and blankets. In contrast, the at home lifestyle session is very laid back and takes place at your home. We often have more time, and can incorporate family pets, the babies nursery, and other family members. I often will document families by their front door as well as this is an important place for a family, and showing where a baby came home is quite moving and important to look back at in the future.

Your Newborn Changes Quickly

Those first 48 hours of a newborn’s life they are wrinkly, and new, and sleepy, and just overall are different than a few days to weeks later when you may have your in home newborn session. At that time your newborn will have gained some weight, be acclimating to life at home, and may even be starting to smile and spending more time awake interacting with family members. These changes will happen so quickly and before you even know it, to be honest. So, by documenting both the fresh 48 stage, and then a few weeks later at home you are documenting those changes to have and hold to look back on. You’ll be amazed by how quickly your new baby changes and grows.

A Family Sitting On A Wooden Staircase With Mom Holding A Newborn Baby And Hugging Young Daughter

At Home, Family Is Often More Rested

There is so much emotion and physical exhaustion that happens when your baby is born…and so you as the mother or father will be in a different state of mind and physical energy at the fresh 48 session when compared to the at home session. And, i’ve even heard from a few moms that they barely remember the time at the hospital because of the exhaustion after delivery or some complications. So, having the fresh 48 images to remember that time is so helpful. And then, at home you can spend a bit more time to feel your best for the photos.

Overall, the two sessions tell two very different yet important stories of your new baby’s arrival to the family, where they were born, where they came home, and who was there to take care of them.

I’d love to chat with you about planning your newborn photo sessions while you are pregnant. Just reach out via my contact form and we’ll talk soon!

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Behind The Frame Part vii: Four favorite personal photos from 2023

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Family Milestones To Document With Photography