Atlanta Newborn Photographer | Baby Parker

Sarah contacted us for a last minute newborn session when her baby girl, Parker, was three weeks old. We photograph three week old babies all the time, and it's NOT too late for a newborn session at that point. It's one of my biggest pet peeves that there is a misconception out there that your baby has to be ten days old at a maximum for a newborn session. I'm not sure how that started it....but please know that it isn't true! We typically schedule newborns for between 8-16 days of life when possible, but sometimes it isn't. Maybe you or your baby had some complications requiring extra healing time or a hospital stay. Maybe you are completely overwhelmed by pregnancy and then a newborn that you never got around to scheduling a newborn session and now wish you had. The older and larger your baby is, the less curled up they may be. Some of my three week olds have been my absolute best sleepers and curliest babies, so there is just no way to predict. I let my tiny clients lead the way during sessions and their safety and comfort is my top priority. 

Sarah also decided to add on makeup services with Megan, and requested a smoky eye. Megan is the queen of smoky eyes, and was so excited to apply her makeup! That being said, our HMUA's will communicate with you to determine your vision and work with you to achieve that. They are the absolute experts in their field and will match your skin tone and undertone perfectly, and tailor their makeup application perfectly to you based on your face and eye shape. 

While Sarah was in the makeup chair, I started with Parker's solo portraits. She started moving and stretching, and I patiently waited to capture quite a few cute expressions during. I just love her laid back personality, and if I didn't know better, I'd say she winked at me! 

At the end of their session, they brought in their amazing French bulldog, Tiber.  We do allow small, very well behaved and minimal to no shedding dogs in our studio only for the time that they are being photographed. You will need to make arrangements to have your pet brought the studio at that time by a friend or family member. If your pet does not do well in new places or isn't adjusting to your baby well, or is large and sheds a lot, we cannot accommodate them in the studio. Cats are not permitted in the studio at all. For safety reasons, we will not place your newborn next to your pet alone. Pets are photographed as part of the family unit while you are holding your baby. 

When Sarah viewed her gallery, she fell in love with all of the images and chose to have an album created as well as two petite albums for each set of grandparents. She let me know which images were her top favorites so that they could have prominent placement within the album design, and made a stack of which images she wanted included in it. I send a proof over before printing, so clients are involved in final say of the album design with a chance to submit revisions if they have any design change preferences. Albums are such a beautiful way to have all of your images printed out and in one place. I used to wonder what I would do with an album, but have since fallen in love with them and order them for my own family sessions. My children love looking at the images together and request to look at them often. 

Here are just a few images from Parker's session! 

If you're expecting a baby or already a parent and looking for a newborn, maternity, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Watch this video 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 can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Maternity boudoir in the studio

We have a lot of clients who want to shoot a more intimate maternity session wearing lingerie, robes, oversized sweaters, or a button down from their husband's closet. I absolutely adore this type of maternity! Boudoir maternity images are never shared without express permission from the client, and Janie loved her images so much that she wanted to share them. If boudoir isn't your thing, that's totally ok too - we'll customize your experience to your preferences and comfort level when it comes to what you want to show and what you don't. 

Janie arrived at the studio and Margaret started on her hair and makeup. When I arrived, Janie handed me a bag of items that she had brought from her own closet and I went through them to pull together the best looks. 

During a maternity boudoir session, I always start with more clothing coverage. If we haven't already met, stripping down to a bra and underwear can be a little unsettling! As you become more comfortable, we move on to more intimate images with less clothing. Think of it as being at the beach in a bikini. Same difference! As a birth photographer, I have literally seen it all. 

There are so many women who are scared that they won't look beautiful in this type of session. Maybe you're insecure with the weight you've gained during pregnancy. Maybe you hate your stretch marks. I'm here to tell you that you WILL look gorgeous. I shoot so many sessions every month and have an arsenal of lenses. Did you know that my lens choice often depends on my clients' body type and the look I'm going for? We will talk about any areas of your body that you're self conscious about, and I'll come up with the best approach for your session. As for stretch marks - unless you specifically request me to leave them alone, they will be non existent in your images. If you had your navel pierced and now regret it, your navel ring scar can also be removed. 

Janie, like many of my clients, wasn't sure what she should do. Unless you spend hours in front of a mirror posing yourself and angling your body, or you're a professional model, that's normal. I'm here for you and will coach you through your entire session with me from chin to hand placement. I have you covered! All you have to do is relax and be your gorgeous self....I'll take care of the rest. 

Here are a few of my favorite images from Janie's session. Isn't she absolutely stunning?! 

If you're expecting a baby or already a parent and looking for a newborn, maternity, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Watch this video 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 can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Newborn Photographer | Baby Warner

I first worked with Stephanie & Ben for their maternity session in the park, which can be viewed by clicking here. They were such a fun and loving couple to photograph! I was so excited to hear that their baby boy, Warner, had finally arrived. He was every bit as cute as I thought he would be and was such a little snuggler. He had long dark eyelashes and the flashed the sweetest little grins throughout his session.

One of my favorite things about newborn sessions is seeing and photographing how enamored new parents are with their newborns. This is just the way it should be, and it always takes me back to when my own children were that tiny. I remember staring at them in awe and listening to their little squeaks and coos. I remember how they snuggled up to my chest and were small enough to cover with both of my hands. I blinked, and now my oldest is in kindergarten. I'm so grateful to have beautiful images of each of our children and our family from that time so I never forget what my children looked like as newborns and how our family looked at that time in our lives. 

Stephanie opted to add on makeup services for her session, so Megan and I were waiting at the studio when the family arrived. I pulled a dress from the studio wardrobe that I knew Stephanie would look amazing in since it was by the same label as one of the dresses she chose for her maternity session. She LOVED the dress, and fit perfectly into it! Megan started working on Stephanie while I took Warner to the newborn shooting room for his solo portraits. Adding on HMUA services does NOT extend your newborn session time. Our hair and makeup artists are usually finishing up at the same time I am with just your baby, and we move to parent and family images. If you're still in the chair when I am finished with your baby, we'll move to dad and baby images while we wait for you to join us! 

Here are just a few images from Warner's newborn session. Isn't he the cutest little guy? 

If you're expecting a baby or already a parent and looking for a newborn, maternity, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Watch this video 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 can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Erica & Jason in the Gardens

Erica contacted me to schedule a maternity session at the gardens location in the winter. This session is from a while ago, but I wanted to share it on the blog so that clients considering booking outdoor session in the winter can see what a winter session can look like. It can be cold in the winter in Georgia, and the evening of this session was in the forties. The coldest outdoor session I have ever photographed was in the field, and it was 37 degrees with a wind chill of 27 degrees. We were all freezing, but you would never know it to look at the images!

During the colder months, I always encourage mamas to bring a winter coat with them if they have an outdoor session and we will take breaks as needed to warm up. I work very quickly and efficiently, so it'll be over before you know it! Braving the cold is worth it for the final resulting images since winter light is some of the most beautiful there is. Since outdoor sessions always begin one hour before sunset, winter sessions begin in the late afternoon since the sun sets in the 5 o'clock hour. If you hate the cold and just can't deal with it, come to the toasty warm studio for an indoor session! 

Erica came to the studio and we chatted for a bit and discovered that we were practically neighbors living just a couple of blocks from each other. Both of us have moved since then... and our new homes are also just a couple of blocks from each other. I joked that we must be destined to forever be neighbors! :) Erica chose a lovely tulle dress from our studio wardrobe which we have affectionately dubbed "the princess dress". I suggested that she utilize one of our warmer winter shawls so that she could keep a bit warmer for some of her images. She also had a flower crown made for her session from Candler Park Flowers, which I thought was lovely and looked beautiful with the dress she had chosen.

Here are just a few gorgeous images from this maternity session at the gardens! It's to believe their little miss will be turning two this coming winter! 

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. Watch this video 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 can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Family Photographer | Haylen is six months!

I first worked with Sindi and Errol for their maternity session in the studio, which can be viewed by clicking here.  I was so excited to hear from Sindi when she emailed asking to schedule her daugher's six month milestone session! I love watching my littlest clients grow. We discussed what the family should wear and I sent over some links to vendors that I recommend as well as an inspirational visual .pdf with ideas. 

Haylen was the happiest little gal! We had so much fun playing peek-a-boo and she giggled with delight each and every time. She was just so giggly and squeezable, and her parents are just in love with her. It is so cute to see a daddy who is wrapped around the little finger of his baby girl. Milestone sessions are focused on your baby, but we include parent and family images too. I think it's so important for children to have images to look back on that show them just how very loved they were. These are the images that they'll reach for time and time again. Someday, you won't be here anymore, but these tangible memories that froze these moments in time will be. There is something so incredibly special and important about giving that to your child. 

Without further ado, here are some of my favorite images from sweet Haylen's six month session! 

If you're expecting a baby or already a parent and looking for a newborn, maternity, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Watch this video 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 can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Maternity Photography | Sindi & Erroll

Sindi contacted me in her second trimester to schedule her maternity session in the studio. She came in for a maternity fitting, and we went through the plethora of options in the studio wardrobe. Because she was expecting a little girl (check back tomorrow to meet her!), she wanted feminine and girly pieces. I loved the two options that she chose. We discussed what her husband should wear for the session that would best coordinate with the pieces she had chosen and jewelry options for her as well. 

All sessions with me include a complimentary 20 minute styling appointment at the studio. Even if you decide you want to bring your own pieces, that's totally fine! You can bring pieces from your closet and I'll give you input and help coordinate a beautiful and cohesive look for all participants. If you borrow from the wardrobe, we'll chat for a bit when you arrive to ascertain your preferences and your vision. Since I shoot so many maternity sessions, I can take one look at you and know what we have that will fit you well and flatter your body type and skin tone, as well as match your personality and style preference. We have everything from simple to glam to bohemian in terms of style, and for boudoir maternity sessions, we'll use things from your own closet! Not only do the styling consultations help pull the look together, they also give us a chance to get to know each other. I promise you, you will be so much more comfortable the day of your session having already met and gotten to know me and we won't spend as much (or any!) initial time warming up and breaking the ice when you step in front of my camera. Please don't worry if we aren't able to meet before your session as I have many out of town clients travel to me for sessions, and we do their fittings right before the session takes place. I enjoy getting to know my clients and we'll chat and get to know each other and break the ice right beforehand if that's all your circumstances allow for. 

The day of her session, she arrived and looked absolutely gorgeous and happy! Erroll and I chatted for a bit while she slipped into the first dress, and then we got started. The two of them were so sweet together, and we had such a good time laughing and chatting in between photographs. We finished up in about 45 minutes and then said our goodbyes. 

Here are a few of my favorite images from their maternity session! Check back tomorrow to see images from their daughter's 6 month milestone session. She's a real cutie! 

*this session was photographed before the installation of the white studio floors*

If you're expecting a baby or already a parent and looking for a newborn, maternity, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Watch this video 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 can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Newborn Photographer | Baby Aria

I first worked with Mia for her maternity session in the studio, which can be viewed by clicking here. After that, I attended her amazing birth at the Atlanta Birth Center and documented the day she welcomed her daughter into the world. Those images will not be shared on the blog as the privacy of my clients is my first priority. Before I left the birth center, we scheduled her daughter's newborn session date. 

Baby Aria gave me a run for my money during my time with her! She was a very calm and serious baby who was dead set on not sleeping. I tried many of my tricks, and she would close her eyes, only to open them right back up. I finally tried a trick that worked (that's for me to know, and you to find out) and she settled into a nice deep sleep for the remainder of her session. I love wide awake babies, but there are certain positions that you just can't place a wide awake baby into since they won't curl up or be snuggly when awake. Big brother did such a wonderful job during their session, and Grandma whisked him away for a trip to the Zoo after his part was finished. We will discuss your toddler's schedule and we'll work it out so that they don't need to be in the studio once they are finished. Toddlers like to run and have fun, and there's no need to keep them sitting somewhere for two hours. We want this to be a fun and relaxing experience for all involved. 

Here are a few of my favorite images from Aria's newborn session. Doesn't she have the cutest serious gaze? I love her pouty little lips and that "So, you want me to go to sleep, huh?" face. 

If you're expecting a baby or already a parent and looking for a newborn, maternity, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Watch this video 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 can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Newborn Photographer | Baby Jackson

Katie contacted us when her baby boy, Jackson, was almost three weeks old. She was afraid she had missed the window for newborn sessions and hadn't gotten around to scheduling one when she was pregnant. While we strongly recommend booking in advance for a guaranteed session, we are often able to fit last minute inquiries in depending on when our guaranteed reservations are born. So if you're a mama who waited until the last minute and your baby is already here, contact us now and see if we have availability for you! We were so pleased to let her know that we had an opening for a newborn session, and got her in within a couple of days. When she arrived with her husband, she looked through the studio wardrobe and chose something to wear from it. Her husband had some church duties to attend to that Sunday, so he headed out with the plan to return later after Jackson's solo portraits for the family session and wrap up. 

Jackson was just the sweetest little guy. He snoozed away and I loved holding him while wrapping him because he would constantly let out sweet little squeaks and contented sighs. My husband tells me that I must get my fill of babies at the studio, but I'll be honest... every time I hold a sweet little newborn I always think to myself, "I could do this for a fourth time." However, we will be sticking with the three beautiful children that we have - no more babies for this family. So I'll have to make do with snuggling and photographing all the amazing newborns that come through the studio every month! 

Katie and I had fun chatting about everything and nothing during Jackson's nursing breaks. Some moms prefer total privacy while nursing, and if that's you - no worries! I will quietly sit in the corner while you spend time with your baby. If you'd prefer to chat while nursing, I'm always up for that too since I enjoy getting to know my clients. I always love hearing about how my clients met and fell in love. I later found out that one of their wedding planner's assistants was a friend of mine (Kathleen from Almost Wed here in Atlanta) when she noticed an image on Instagram and sent me a message about them. Atlanta can be such a small world! 

As I was wrapping up Jackson's solo images, his daddy returned from church and we moved to the family portion of their session. I just love how happy they were and what a loving and sweet relationship they had with each other which you can see in their beaming smiles as they look at each other. The onset of the parenting journey is often tough with sleep deprivation and a tiny human who depends on you for everything, but in the end, you're a family and you have each other. I just love being able to photograph families at the very beginning so they always remember that feeling of joy amidst the overwhelm and how tiny their baby was at the beginning. 

If you're expecting a baby or already a parent and looking for a newborn, maternity, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Watch this video 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 can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Newborn Photographer | Baby Henry

Michelle contacted me in her second trimester to book a newborn session for their baby. They didn't know if they were having a boy or a girl, which is the same decision that I made with all three of my children. I think it's a surprise no matter when you choose to find out, but I loved the entire experience of wondering and then finding out once our babies were in our arms at long last! I was actually present for the birth of Henry as well, but you won't see the images from that shared here on the blog as client privacy for The Birth Session is my top priority. We scheduled their newborn session before I left the hospital the day he was born, and Michelle opted to add on hair and makeup services as well. 

The day of their newborn session, I was so excited to see Henry and how much he had grown since his birth! Babies look remarkably different from the first few hours, to couple of days, to first weeks. It's truly amazing how much change occurs, and parents always marvel at it when they view the images. Michelle selected one of our studio dresses from the wardrobe to wear and settled into the hair and makeup chair with Megan while I began to work with Henry for his solo portraits. 

Henry had plump little cheeks and pouty lips, and was such a dream sleeper. His parents were so in love, and they brought along Kalyan's mother who was visiting from India. Even though she didn't speak English, we worked together for her to be comfortable during our session and captured some beautiful generational photos. Many clients ask if there is an extra fee for grandparents or siblings to be involved: the answer is absolutely not! Newborn sessions are just as much about celebrating your new family as they are of capturing your new addition and I honor that during the family portion of newborn session. 

After Henry's session, Michelle emailed to  book his six month milestone session (which is happening next week!) and his one year session. Many of our clients choose to document the entire first year and get the dates on the calendar right away. Henry will also be coming into the studio in December for our Santa sessions which currently still have available slots! 

Enjoy some of my favorites from Henry's session! 

If you're expecting a baby or already a parent and looking for a newborn, maternity, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Watch this video 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 can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Baby Photographer | Everett is ONE!!!

Everett came to the studio for his one year session, and I was so excited to see him and his wonderful parents, Jessica and Daniel. I first worked with Jessica and Daniel for their last minute maternity session in the field location, which can be viewed by clicking here. After their maternity session, I photographed them again for Everett's newborn session and he was just the cutest little baby (not much changed!). You can view his newborn session by clicking here.

Jessica and I discussed outfit options for their studio session and I sent her a list of suggested places for little boy clothing and an inspirational .pdf of outfits. She wasn't sure whether she wanted to do an indoor or outdoor session, but ended up opting for indoor due to the summer heat and how late outdoor summer sessions start. Some babies are very much in need of their routine and regular bedtime, while others can flex without any ill effects. Everett is a little guy that likes to go to bed at his regular bedtime! It's important for your baby to be well rested and well fed, so we'll schedule your session at a time and place that makes the most sense for your baby and their needs.  

Jessica and Daniel also opted for a blue cake from my baker that I work with. It's one less thing for parents to worry about, and will be waiting at the studio for you upon arrival should you choose to work with her for your baby's cake. Some parents elect to bake their own cake, use a cupcake, or order a cake from their own preferred vendor. No matter which option you choose, I'll give you specific recommendations for size, texture, and color for the most successful photographs! 

I begin most First Birthday sessions with solo portraits of your baby and then the family together before moving on to the cake fun. This keeps your baby interested and engaged since most one year olds have very short attention spans. When the cake is presented, I encourage parents to join in on the fun too. Congrats guys, you made it through the whole first year of parenthood! That is definitely something that all of you should celebrate! The First Birthday session is about so much more than just your baby turning one.

Enjoy a few of my favorites from Everett's first birthday session. How cute is that little dimpled grin of his?! 

If you're expecting a baby or already a parent and looking for a newborn, maternity, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Watch this video 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 can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Newborn Photography | Baby Adeline

If you're expecting a baby or already a parent and looking for a newborn, maternity, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Watch this video 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 can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Mia

Mia called at the last minute after moving to Atlanta from Memphis to inquire about maternity, birth, and newborn sessions. I happened to have availability in my calendar for birth due to early deliveries, so invited Mia to come to the studio for a complimentary consultation to discuss her planned Atlanta Birth Center birth. After chatting for a while, she decided she wanted to go ahead with booking all three so we conducted her maternity fitting right then and there in the studio before she left. She chose two gorgeous gowns, and we discussed what her son and partner should wear from their own closets. 

The day of her session was so much fun. She opted for a Cleopatra inspired look and looked absolutely stunning when she arrived. She changed into her first gown, and we started the session. Her little boy was just the sweetest with big brown eyes, and just loved his mama. Lots of moms worry about whether their child will cooperate during sessions. With our approach, we let the child lead and have you make suggestions to them that lead to natural interaction. Forcing a child to do anything they don't want to never works. If you're patient and laid back about things, I'll be hanging out quietly and waiting for those little in between moments that you didn't even realize happened. We will always schedule sessions that involve little ones to be at a time when they're well rested and fed for the most optimal results!

Here are just a few images from Mia's studio maternity session in black and white. She received both color and black and white versions of the images with the collection she chose, but I'm so in love with the black and white versions that I'm choosing to just share those for this post. 

If you're expecting a baby or already a parent and looking for a newborn, maternity, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Watch this video 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 can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Newborn Photographer | Baby Chandler

The last time I saw Olive and her family was at their family maternity session in the park, which can be viewed by clicking here. She sent me a message to let me know that they had welcomed a second baby boy, and we scheduled their newborn session. A couple of days before their session, Olive sent me a message again to ask if we could reschedule the session due to a spinal headache from the epidural. I totally understand that unforeseen postpartum complications can happen, and we will work with you to get you rescheduled. She was very concerned that this would be "too late" since Chandler would be three weeks old at the time of the rescheduled session. I reassured her that this wouldn't be the case and it would all be just fine. We photograph three week old babies ALL the time in the studio. So if you're a mama reading this who really wanted a newborn session but thought after two weeks was too late...contact us now to see if we can fit you in! 

On the day of the session, Olive arrived with just Chandler. When families have older toddlers, we have dad bring the big sibling(s) about 90 minutes into the session. We'll also plan around their nap schedule if necessary since we want them to be comfortable and happy too! 

Chandler was SUCH a little lovebug. I mean, look at that head of hair and squishy little cheeks! Near the end of the session, he started waking up and I was able to capture some adorable direct camera gazes.

When daddy and big brother arrived, Dudley gave me a few high fives. It's always wonderful to have already worked with a family recently as the children are usually comfortable with me since they remember our recent session, and know what to expect. Big brother Dudley was so proud to be a part of the session and loves his little brother. I know the two of them will be the best of friends as they grow, and I can't wait to document Chandler's milestones through the first year of his life! 

Here are a few of my favorite images from Chandler's newborn session! 

If you're expecting a baby or already a parent and looking for a newborn, maternity, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Watch this video 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 can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Newborn Photographer | Baby Audrey

The last time I had seen Jessica & Taylor was for their maternity session in the park location, which can be viewed by clicking here. I was so excited to meet their sweet baby girl and hear all about how everything went for them during labor & delivery. Jessica opted to add on hair and makeup services with Margaret since she knew she wouldn't have the time or the energy to do so before coming to the studio for their session. The vast majority of our newborn moms choose to pamper themselves by adding this service to their session, and all of them are so glad that they did!

When the new little family of three arrived at my studio with Jessica's mom in tow I was amazed at how much Audrey looked like her daddy! It's always so neat to see who babies tend to favor in the very beginning. There are so many that favor either parent in the first months of life and then a 180 happens and they look like the other parent. I find genetics so fascinating! 

I started the session photographing just Audrey while Jessica was in the hair and makeup chair. After I finished up with that, we moved to some daddy and daughter images. Jessica then finished with hair and makeup and she and her mother changed into some pieces from the studio wardrobe. Lots of grandmas attend (and are more than welcome to!) and many end up borrowing from the studio wardrobe if they didn't have anything with them. My own grandmother is 82 years old and is the sweetest soul alive. I love her so very much, so being able to photograph newborn babies with their grandmothers is something very special to me. 

We finished the session with parent/family/grandma images and had such a great time chatting and talking. I want everyone to feel relaxed and comfortable and enjoy their experience. Newborn sessions are laid back and relaxed, and led by your baby. If your baby needs a break to be snuggled or to eat, we take one! If you need a break to use the restroom or sit down and eat a snack, we take one. It really is just as simple as that!

If you're expecting a baby or already a parent and looking for a newborn, maternity, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Watch this video 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 can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Family Photographer | A family maternity session in the park

This sweet family is near and dear to my heart, because I started working with them when they were expecting their first child who is now a sweet and rambunctious toddler. Olive emailed me to let me know they were expecting their second child and wanted to work with me again, but she was a little behind in the game and hadn't thought of anything to wear. I reassured her that we had plenty of options in the studio wardrobe and we made an appointment for her styling consult. She fell in love with a split front dress and a flower crown and was relieved that she didn't have to worry about finding or ordering a dress for her maternity session at the park location. 

When we arrived at the park, Olive was worried that Dudley wouldn't be cooperative. This is a common concern with every client that has a small child. The best way to deal with this is simply to let the child lead and give them their space. Think about it...if someone you didn't know well was in your face telling you to smile and waving a big black thing around that made clicking noises, would you be excited about it? Probably not. Let me guarantee you something: I have seen it ALL. You may think your child is acting like a complete devil, but I've seen "worse". I have three children of my own, and have survived the on year old, two year old, three year old, four year old, and five year old stages thus far. I have a few tricks up my sleeve. 

The biggest "trick" is that at the beginning of your session, I hang back and let your family interact naturally together while giving you some guided direction. I wait for those moments to happen, and trust me...they do. Even if you feel like a session is going horribly and that I can't possibly be getting anything you'd want to frame - trust me and go with the flow. Relax, have fun - and your child will follow your lead. Once your child is comfortable, I'll approach to be closer. 

We had a lot of fun during the session after Dudley warmed up to being photographed. He had a blast running and playing with his parents and loved snuggling with his mom. The light was gorgeous that evening, and I was so excited to edit and deliver the gallery to them! 

When Olive saw the images from her session, she sent me a message to tell me that she had been so worried that I hadn't been able to get anything because of Dudley not being excited, but that the gallery brought her to tears because of all the moments captured. I love hearing this from my clients! 

If you're expecting a baby or already a parent and looking for a newborn, maternity, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Watch this video 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 can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Family Photographer | Dudley is ONE!

Oh Dudley, you're the sweetest. Dudley is one of my long time clients, and he's actually much older now (as you'll see in tomorrow's post!) I've been working with his sweet family since his parents' maternity session and am just now getting around to posting images from his first birthday. 

Dudley's mom had great intentions and she baked him a cake all by herself. However, the cake didn't turn out the way she'd hoped and it fell apart the morning of. So, they reverted to plan B and grabbed a cupcake from a nearby bakery. I think it worked out just fine!

We opted to shoot Dudley's session on our paper backdrop. It's to clean up and contain the icing if babies go a little crazy - but mom and dad's job is to be a baby herder while I work. If your one year old is walking, they will often find the studio much more exciting than their cake and want to explore. This is why many of our First Birthday sessions take place in a high chair, but it's all a matter of your personal preference. And just because we get this question a lot: yes, we can also shoot a First Birthday session outdoors! Contact us today and we'll talk about your vision for your session. 

While Dudley showed initial interest in his cupcake, the container was far more fun. Some of the most hilarious moments that truly show Dudley's funny personality are included ... just scroll down and enjoy! 

PS - we work with an amazing baker located close to the studio. Her cakes are absolutely delicious and beautiful. If you'd like to remove that stress from your to do list, just ask for details when booking your baby's First Birthday Session. 

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. 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 can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Baby Photographer | Adeline is six months!

I first worked with this sweet family for Carolyn's field maternity session (click here to view) and then Adeline's newborn session when she was born. When Carolyn came to the studio to pick up their newborn collection, she let me know that they were moving to New York after a whirlwind couple of weeks in which a job opportunity for her husband presented itself. I was SO sad because I loved working with them and was disappointed that I wouldn't work with them through Adeline's first year of life.

Well.... life has lots of twists and turns! Once they were settled in New York, Carolyn emailed me to ask if I had any referrals up in the area. One of my dear friends is based in Manhattan (and it the only photographer I entrust with my own family images) so I referred them to her. Unfortunately Olivia was already fully booked, but suggested that I shoot the session in her Upper East Side studio when I was up there visiting. Carolyn LOVED the idea, so we scheduled it during my visit. It was definitely different shooting in an unfamiliar natural light studio but we still had a wonderful time. Greg opted not to participate in the session, so we turned it into a mommy and me six month session. It was so great to see them both and chat. I mentioned that I would be up again in July (when Adeline was turning one) and Carolyn immediately asked if we could schedule a one year session for then. So, it looks like I'll be working with this sweet families for many years to come and seeing them once a year when I'm up in NY! Funny how things work out sometimes, and I'm definitely not complaining! 

If you're expecting a baby or already a parent and looking for a newborn, maternity, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Watch this video 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 can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Cindy

    Cindy contacted us to schedule her maternity and newborn sessions. She chose a studio maternity session, and elected to add on hair and makeup services with our HMUA, Megan. She came to the studio a couple of weeks before the session for her maternity fitting, and we had such a lovely time chatting and getting to know each other. She chose some beautiful dresses from the wardrobe that she loved and looked amazing in. Narrowing down her choices was difficult because there were so many that she loved!  

   When I arrived at the studio the day of her session, Megan was just finishing up. I loved the gorgeous and clean look that Megan had applied, and so did Cindy. She was absolutely thrilled with how she looked, and it made her much more confident since she was a little bit nervous. Most of my clients are nervous - if you're not a professional model, you're usually not used to being photographed. My job is to make sure you're comfortable and to guide you through the entire process, so you don't need to worry about a thing. We'll take great care of you! When Cindy viewed her images, she loved all of them. She told me that the images were even more beautiful than she imagined and she couldn't believe it was really her. We hear this all the time, and it makes us happy. Pregnancy can be a challenging time in terms of body image since your body goes through so many changes while growing your sweet baby! I absolutely LOVE photographing pregnant women, and I find women to be at their most beautiful while pregnant even if they don't feel that way. You'll find me up on a ladder and gently correcting arms and chin angles to create the most flattering portraits. Promise! 

Here are just a few images from Cindy's gorgeous studio session! I can't wait to share the images from her gorgeous baby girl's newborn session!

If you're expecting a baby or already a parent and looking for a newborn, maternity, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Watch this video 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 can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Maternity Photography | Melissa & Alex at the park

Melissa chose to book a maternity session with us at the park location. When she came in for her maternity fitting, she informed me that her husband didn't particularly love to participate in photo sessions but wanted her to be happy so he willingly cooperated when asked. I told her not to worry, because I really love working with partners and surprising them when they find themselves having fun during a session! Melissa chose two dresses from the wardrobe and we discussed what her husband should wear. She also decided to add on hair and makeup services with our lead HMUA, Margaret.

I arrived at the studio a little bit early as Margaret was finishing up with Melissa so that I could meet Alex and chat with him a little bit before we left to head to the location. We talked about all sorts of things and went over what to expect during the session. It was a cloudy and overcast evening, and we wondered if it would rain even though the forecast wasn't calling for any. Alex said he thought it would rain, Melissa wasn't sure, and I said I didn't think that it would because it didn't smell like rain to me. Whenever it's about to rain, I really feel like there's a rainy smell in the air that precedes it. Call me crazy, but my nose hasn't failed me yet on that one and I turned out to be right that evening too! So, what if it's cloudy during a session? No worries! Clouds actually soften and diffuse the light even more and we don't have to worry about where the sun is falling as much. A session on a cloudy day is just as beautiful as a session on a sunny one. 

Melissa looked absolutely radiant during her session, and Alex found himself actually having fun. So much fun, in fact, that he told Melissa to go ahead and reserve a newborn session with me for when their son arrived. Another dad that I won over in the books! ;) 

Enjoy some of my favorite images from Melissa & Alex's maternity session, and be on the lookout for images from their son's newborn session (he is SOOOOO cute) when I post it next month!

If you're expecting a baby or already a parent and looking for a newborn, maternity, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Watch this video 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 can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Lindsey in the studio

Lindsey called the studio to book a very last minute maternity session. She didn't think she wanted one initially but she found herself changing her mind the further along she progressed her her pregnancy with her baby boy. We were able fit them into the studio schedule and she and her boyfriend, Matt, came to the studio one evening for their maternity fitting. It was fun chatting with Matt and Lindsey and getting to know them both. They have since moved back to the Boston area where Lindsey is from, and their son is one of the most ADORABLE little things you've ever seen!

Lindsey wanted something simple that showed off her belly, and found the perfect dress in the wardrobe for that. She elected to add on hair and makeup services with Margaret as well and I loved the simple half updo that Margaret styled for her. Our HMUA's are true experts in their field and will work closely with you to create a gorgeous look that you're comfortable with and is unique to you, enhancing your best features. 

Lindsey and Matt had never worked with a professional photographer together so they were a little bit unsure of what to expect but were already comfortable with me due to meeting me beforehand at our fitting appointment so it didn't take long for them to get into the swing of things! You don't need to worry about not knowing what to do. I'm here to walk you through the entire session and will give you gentle guidance and direction for natural interaction and flattering angles. I will take care of you, and we'll create some gorgeous images for you to cherish of this incredibly special time in your life! 

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. Watch this video 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 can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.