5 Things to Know Before Your Fresh 48 Session
A new parent’s guide to beautiful hospital newborn photos in Central Louisiana
There’s something sacred about those first 48 hours after your baby is born. You’re still soaking it all in—the soft yawns, tiny fingers, and that overwhelming love that makes everything else blur. That’s exactly what a Fresh 48 session is for: documenting those fleeting, emotional moments in a natural, relaxed way.
If you’re planning to book a hospital newborn session, here are five things to know so you feel confident and prepared.
1. You Don’t Have to Be “Camera Ready”
This is one of the most common concerns I hear, and I’m here to take that pressure all the way off. You just did something incredible. Whether you’re in a messy bun or hospital gown, these photos are about love—not perfection.
I recommend soft, neutral colors for you and baby (think: white, cream, soft pinks, or grays). These tones help keep the focus on your connection and look beautiful in natural light.
2. Timing Is Everything—Here’s When We’ll Shoot
The ideal window for a Fresh 48 is—yep, you guessed it—within the first 24 to 48 hours after delivery. I typically visit the hospital the morning after baby arrives, when there’s plenty of daylight coming through and you've had a moment to "breathe" after baby is here.
Don’t worry about cleaning or prepping the room—I’ll work around anything that’s there and make it feel calm and cozy.
3. It’s All About Quiet, Candid Moments
Fresh 48 sessions are simple, slow, and baby-led. I’ll gently guide you into natural interactions like holding, swaddling, feeding, etc. If baby has siblings, we’ll capture those precious first introductions too. Some parents opt to not be photographed and just use this session to capture all the sweet details of the new baby and some families opt to bring in siblings and make it a fun and interactive session- it's totally up to you!
4. What to Bring (It Doesn’t Have to Be Much)
You don’t need a whole suitcase of props. A few soft, meaningful items go a long way:
- A neutral swaddle or onesie you love
- A cozy blanket or family heirloom (like a handmade quilt)
- A hat, bow, or bonnet for baby
If you forget something—it’s okay. I’ve captured beautiful galleries with nothing but hospital-provided items. The magic is already there.
5. These Images Will Be Treasured Forever
Your baby will never be this small again, and you’ll never be in this exact moment again either. These photos become part of your story—the ones you’ll flip through in a year with tears in your eyes, remembering how it all began.
This session is more than photography—it’s a gift to your future self.
Ready to Book Your Fresh 48?
I only take a limited number of Fresh 48 sessions each month to ensure flexibility around your delivery date. If you’re expecting soon (or just found out and planning ahead), I’d love to talk more.
