Welcoming a new life into the world is one of the most precious moments you’ll ever experience. Capturing those early days in the place where they were born is a special way to preserve fleeting memories.
Here’s what you can expect when you book a Birmingham, Alabama Fresh 48 photo session with me.
After you book your session I suggest starting your session preparations.
If your doctor decides on an induction date please let me know as soon as possible. Otherwise please let me know as soon as you are in labor. A text or email is great.
Your Fresh 48 Photo Session takes place at your baby’s place of birth within the first couple of days. This can be at a hospital, birthing center or in your home.
I love to capture your family in the most natural way possible. Using the tips below will help provide you with photos that are true to my light and airy style.
Neutral colors like white, off-white, cream, light grey, baby blue and baby pink are great choices. Darker and brighter colors will take away from the light and airy feel of your session and possibly cause color casts.
I don’t suggest patterns like strips, plaids or anything large and distracting. Keep it simple with plain colors and small, dainty prints. Unless the print has been designed to work with other prints I suggest 1 print per family so outfits stay cohesive.
Robes, gowns or pajamas or a comfortable dress are a great way to add to the relaxed, lifestyle feel of your session. Rompers and dresses are great for little girls. Don’t forget their bloomers.
I suggest doing your hair and makeup somewhere in between a trip to the grocery store and a nice dinner out. In other words, it doesn’t have to be prom worthy but you don’t want to look like you just woke up. Definitely don’t skip a little color on your lips.
Matching mom and baby sets from CadenLane.com are perfect for Fresh 48 newborn sessions.
Nothing Fits But sells a variety of gowns, dresses, knit lounge sets and robes that are sure to be comfortable and add that extra touch of elegance to your Fresh 48 newborn session. Order these early as they ship from South Korea and can take 2-3 weeks to arrive. Some sets are sold on Amazon.
Light colored jeans or pants are great. Shorts for littles work well but I suggest dad stick to pants. If opting for blue jeans choose greys and light denim to avoid dark and bright colors from taking over.
I love photographing baby just as they are in their tiny hospital shirts with a diaper and hospital swaddle. However, if an outfit is preferred stick to those that are soft, comfortable and well fitting. Most newborns need preemie clothing in order for it not too look like they’re swimming in it.
These gowns from Caden Lane are perfect for easy access to photograph all the tiny baby, parts without disturbing baby more than needed.
Swaddles, bows and special items from home are welcome.
Your baby’s safety and comfort are my top priorities. With years of experience in newborn photography and personal experience raising 3 girls, I know how to handle your little one with care and patience.
Along with not handling baby any more than necessary you’ll find me sanitizing my hands often and wearing a mask to ensure added protection for baby’s health.
Immediate family members are included in your session. 1 helper is allowed to join you during your session to provide assistance with baby and older sibling(s). They may be included in a few photos. Due to the small size of hospital rooms please ask other visitors to leave the room.
Fresh 48 sessions typically last around 45 minutes. However, I allo 2 hours in my schedule in the event we need a feeding, diapering or soothing break.
Your session will go more smoothly if the room is nice and warm. How warm? Use the baby as your guide. Warm the room as much as needed to keep baby warm and comfortable in whatever they will be wearing. This may mean you’re a little uncomfortable.
Feed baby just before I arrive to ensure they don’t get hungry. If you would like nursing photos feel free to wait till I arrive.
Once your session is complete, I will select the best images from your session to professional edit. My editing process takes 2 weeks or less after your images have been chosen and ensures your photos are timeless, natural, and flawless. All images are edited in a way to enhance the natural beauty of your baby and family.
All, images, will be delivered in color and black and white.
After editing, you’ll receive an online link to view and download your gallery of images.
From there, you may choose to print beautiful, archival prints and product from your gallery or print on your own. Whether it’s an heirloom album or wall art I will help you preserve your memories in a way that suits your style.
I’m here to guide you through every step of the process—from preparing for the session to deciding on the perfect way to display your photos. My goal is to make this experience seamless and unforgettable.
Along with Fresh 48 sessions Laura Cardan offers newborn photography sessions in her in-home, light and bright studio in Vestavia Hills, Alabama and on-location throughout the Birmingham, Alabama area.