The Blackbird Flies offer 2 kinds of newborn sessions: in-home lifestyle newborn and (a kind that can be forgotten about – tragically) Fresh 48 newborn. In-home (or at-home some call it) newborn sessions are often slow, quiet, and intimate, but of course we may have an older sibling around or some doggies. These in-home sessions are very unique for obvious reasons – your home, your space, nursery, backyard, it’s all ‘home’. Fresh 48 newborn sessions are usually done within 48 hours after birth and in the recovery room. Since beginning family photography in 2016 and the birth of my own newborn daughter in 2017, I have grown to know and love newborn sessions so very much. Now, newborn sessions hold a special place in my heart – that really only photographs can prove.
An in-home lifestyle newborn session is a relaxed, natural photography session that takes place in your home, capturing the authentic moments of your newborn and your family in your everyday environment. It’s less posed and more documentary-style than a traditional studio session.
Here’s what to expect with your in-home lifestyle newborn session:
1. Style & Feel
- Natural light is typically used—so windows and soft indoor lighting play a big role in both In-home and Fresh 48 Newborn Sessions!
- The focus is on real moments: snuggling on the couch, feeding, changing, siblings interacting, and cozy crib scenes.
- Minimal props, more storytelling. It’s about your life as it is now – your story – even just a mere fragment of your story.
2. Common Locations in Your Home
- Master bedroom: Often used for cuddly bed shots with the whole family.
- Nursery: Detail shots of the baby’s room, decor, and crib moments.
- Living room: For relaxed family interactions.
Window-lit areas: Used for flattering natural light.
3. What to Wear
- Neutral, solid tones work best—whites, creams, soft pastels. (as seen here)
- Coordinate as a family (as seen here), but don’t overly match.
Comfort is key—soft fabrics and layers photograph beautifully.
4. How to Prepare
- Let’s open blinds/curtains for natural light!
- Tidy up the key rooms, if you have the time (don’t stress about perfection and I will help).
- Feed baby before the session to help them feel calm and sleepy, but a nursing/feeding session is expected and welcome.
- Keep outfits simple and have a backup for baby (accidents happen). Again, outfits are important but not worth stressing – I will have some stuff with me (onesies, diaper covers, etc) and who doesn’t love baby skin?
5. Session Timing
- Ideal within the first 5–15 days after birth, when baby is still extra sleepy and snuggly. But don’t let that stop you from reaching out to me when your newborn ‘accidentally’ turns 2 months – I got you mama.
- Late morning sessions are usually best for light and a happy baby. I usually aim for between 10:00am–2:00pm.
What Your Photographer Will Capture
- Baby’s first yawns, stretches, cries, snuggles
- Close-ups of toes, hands, and flaky newborn skin
- Parent-baby snuggles
- Sibling introductions
- Candid, emotional moments
A Fresh 48 photography session is a special type of newborn photo session done within the first 24 to 48 hours after birth, typically in your hospital, birthing center, or home (for home births). These sessions aim to capture the raw, emotional, and fleeting moments of a baby’s very first days of life (and maybe momma’s first days being a momma)—without the props, posing, or stress of a full newborn shoot.
So what is a Fresh 48 Session?
It’s an unposed, documentary-style photo session that focuses on:
- Your baby’s tiny features (wrinkled hands, hospital bracelet, vernix, etc.)
- The emotional bond between baby and parents
- First meetings with siblings or grandparents
- Breastfeeding or bottle-feeding moments
- Hospital details: bassinets, ID cards, swaddles, and baby hats
When Does It Take Place?
- Within 24–48 hours after birth (before you’re discharged)
- Usually done during daylight hours for best natural lighting
Where in the Hospital?
- In your hospital room
- Near a window for natural light
Sometimes includes hallway walks, nursery windows, or recovery room moments (with permission)
What to Wear / How to Prepare
For Baby:
- Hospital swaddle or a special outfit
- Hat or bonnet
- Keep baby in a diaper for some detail shots
Parents:
- Simple, comfortable clothes (neutral tones or soft patterns work best)
- Moms often wear a robe or nursing gown
Dads: soft t-shirts or button-down shirts in neutral colors
the Room:
- Tidy up surfaces (but don’t stress—real life is beautiful too)
Have sentimental items nearby (a name tag, a special blanket, etc.)
What Your Photographer Will Capture
- Baby’s first yawns, stretches, cries, snuggles
- Close-ups of toes, hands, and flaky newborn skin
- Parent-baby snuggles
- Sibling introductions
- Candid, emotional moments
Why Choose a Fresh 48 Session?
- It’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to capture the freshness and emotion of your baby’s first hours.
- Throw out all expectations, seeing it for what it is – these newborn sessions are all about realness and connection.
