When Kelly inquired about a newborn session, she informed me that her baby boy was already 3 weeks old so she knew she had missed out on newborn images. I was thrilled to tell her that she absolutely hadn't and could fit her in right away due to an opening in my schedule that weekend.
Because of the natural style in which I shoot, babies aren't contorted into uncomfortable positions or placed in bowls or baskets. I frequently photograph babies up to 5-6 weeks old. Sometimes my clients waited until the last minute, and sometimes clients thought they didn't want newborn images but then changed their mind when they saw how much their baby was changing in those early weeks and wanted to preserve all those details for their memories. That being said, it is definitely best to schedule in advance if you're able in order to guarantee my availability. Many of my clients book as early as the first trimester: I currently have sessions in my calendar every month through October 2016 already!
Kelly's husband was already back to work, so we scheduled them for that weekend so he wouldn't have to take a day off. When they arrived, Aydin was sound asleep thanks to his parents following the newborn preparation guide that I send ahead of every session. I took Aydin into my newborn shooting room which is kept at a toasty 80-85 degrees, and his parents watched the entire session from my observation window. The observation window is fantastic because it allows you to have your baby in sight at all times without being uncomfortably hot and sweating for the solo baby shots. It also allows you to talk to your partner without risking your baby waking up because of hearing you. If you need to tell me something during a session, I can read your lips through the glass, or you can pop in for a minute or two as needed. It's the best of both worlds!
When I took Aydin out of his carseat and saw his hair, I squealed! How cute is it!? Kelly told me that he had so much hair that they could see it in the ultrasounds, so they knew he would be coming with a full head of it. I'm excited to share a few images from Aydin's newborn session with you.
Aydin also had the cutest little pout. Look at those sweet little lips!
When Kelly saw this textured two toned wrap, she loved it and requested that it be used for some of Aydin's newborn portraits. I happily obliged as it was the perfect color for his beautiful skin tone.
While I will do minimal posing of newborns to move hands away from the face, etc. I also like to step back and let your baby assume positions naturally on their own. Aren't his little folded hands just the sweetest?
I adore black and white images, and just love this one of Aydin. He looks so sweet and cozy, and his little arm rolls are just the cutest. Not to mention, this image really shows off his full head of hair!
My newborn sessions are structured so that half of the final images are of baby alone and the other half are with parents. I have a very relaxed approach that combines the best of both worlds: natural light studio blended with lifestyle photography. Kelly and Aydin snuggled up on the bed and I asked Kelly to admire her beautiful baby boy and snuggle with him like she would at home. Mamas, we have all done this, and if you're expecting - when your baby is here, you will too. Natural and organic moments that show the genuine emotion and authentic moments are what I am all about!
Kelly wore her own cream lace dress to the studio which was absolutely gorgeous, but a dress hanging in the studio wardrobe caught her eye and she fell in love with it. I think she looks absolutely stunning in it!
Aren't they just the sweetest little family? Kelly requested that we incorporate a few images with Aydin's face up to hers. I love these images and am glad to take a few more "traditional" images mixed in with the way I typically shoot.
If you're pregnant and looking for a newborn or maternity photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime and pass down to your child. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film to hear about my philosophy and see how I work in the studio so you can determine if I'm the right fit for you. I take pride in crafting a wonderful studio experience for my clients from first contact to final product delivery. I can't wait to meet you!
Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.