Lifestyle

My journal about

I'm so glad you are here! Feel free to sit back and browse a while. This is where you can find everything from recent sessions to tips & information and more.

hello & Welcome!

, Nadine

Love

What to Bring to Your Newborn Session – Spring Hill Studio

, , ,

You just had a baby. You’re short on sleep, your arms are full (literally), and the idea of “being prepared” might feel… a little ambitious. Take a deep breath—you don’t have to do it alone.

My Spring Hill studio is designed to be a soft, welcoming space where you can show up just as you are. But if you love a good checklist (or just want the day to run a little smoother), here’s my go-to guide for what to bring to your newborn session.

Your Studio Newborn Checklist

1. A Pacifier (Even if They Don’t Normally Use One)

Sometimes babies get fussy or need a little extra comfort between poses. Even if your baby doesn’t usually take a paci, having one nearby can help me calm and settle them quickly.

It’s not required—but it can be a total game-changer.

2. A Sentimental Item (Optional, but Beautiful)

If you have something meaningful—like a baby blanket from your own childhood, a special teddy bear, or a gift from a grandparent—bring it! I love finding ways to incorporate sentimental pieces that tell your family’s story.

3. Whatever You Need for Feeding

Whether you’re nursing, pumping, or bottle-feeding, I’ll pause the session anytime your baby needs to eat. A full belly makes for a much sleepier baby—and that means more of those soft, snuggly images.

  • If you’re using formula, bring an extra bottle or two
  • If you’re nursing, feel free to bring your favorite pillow or cover
  • 💡 Pro tip: Feeding your baby right before we start helps them settle in quickly

4. An Extra Outfit—for Baby and You

Babies spit up. It happens. Bring a backup onesie or gown for your little one just in case, and I recommend a neutral shirt for you or your partner too—just in case baby leaves a little love on your shoulder during snuggles.

I’ll provide all the wraps and accessories, so no need to pack much!

5. (Side Note) If Your Baby Was Recently Circumcised…

If your baby has been circumcised, I recommend waiting 5–7 days before your session. This gives their body time to heal and helps keep them comfortable during posing. If you’re unsure, feel free to reach out—I’m happy to walk you through it.

What I Have Ready at the Studio

I’ve stocked the studio with everything you might need, so you don’t have to stress about packing it all:

  • Soft wraps, swaddles, and posing pillows
  • A client closet with flattering, flowy dresses you can borrow
  • Wipes, blankets, and cozy comforts for baby
  • A private, quiet space for feeding or snuggling between setups

A Quick Note from Me

The best sessions aren’t about perfection. They’re about presence.

I’ve had parents show up feeling a little frazzled and leave with full hearts and a gallery of images they love. Bring what you can, and I’ll take care of the rest. We’ll follow your baby’s lead, take breaks when needed, and move at a pace that feels calm and easy.

You don’t need to do anything fancy—you just need to show up. I’ve got you.

Thank you so much for being here. I love sharing stories and tips that help you feel more prepared—and more seen. If you’re ready to plan a session that feels true to you, click here to get in touch.

read now

Newborn Photography for Rainbow Babies | Tampa Studio

, , ,

Every newborn session tells a story—but some stories begin long before the baby ever arrives.

For some families, the journey to holding a newborn in their arms includes chapters of loss. A miscarriage. A stillbirth. A child gone too soon. And when a new baby is born after loss, they’re often called a rainbow baby—a symbol of hope after the storm.

Newborn sessions for rainbow babies hold a different kind of energy. There’s joy, yes—but also remembrance, reflection, and reverence. I approach these sessions with our whole hearts, knowing that behind every image is a story of strength, love, and healing.

What Is a Rainbow Baby?

A rainbow baby is a term used to describe a child born after miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant loss. Just like a rainbow doesn’t erase the storm, a rainbow baby doesn’t replace the child who came before—but they are a symbol of renewal, of life continuing, and of hope returning.

These sessions are often filled with deep emotion—joy and sorrow sharing the same space.

The Power of Symbolism in Your Session

Many families choose to include a symbol of the baby they lost. This could be:

  • A small teddy bear
  • A birthstone charm
  • A handwritten note or ultrasound photo
  • A rainbow-colored wrap or blanket

These quiet additions become powerful. In images, they gently say: you are still part of this family.

I photograph them intentionally—never to overshadow the new baby, but to honor the one who came before. It’s a way to hold space for all of your children in one frame.

Loss-Aware Photography with Sensitivity

I know that grief doesn’t end just because a new baby is here. That’s why I take a trauma-informed, heart-led approach during these sessions:

  • I move slowly. There’s no pressure to smile or “perform.”
  • I check in often. Your emotions are welcome here.
  • I hold space. For tears, for silence, for remembrance.

You don’t have to explain yourself. You don’t have to be okay.
I see you. I honor your story. I are with you. You are fully welcome here.

A Studio That Feels Safe

My Tampa studio is a quiet, neutral space designed to feel peaceful and private—especially for families walking through tender experiences. Natural light, soft textures, and gentle tones allow the focus to stay on connection, not distractions.

No loud props. No forced posing. Just a calm, baby-led session where you can breathe, be present, and feel whatever comes up.

Your Grief Is Not Forgotten

If you’ve experienced pregnancy or infant loss, you are not alone.
If your arms are full now, but your heart still aches for the baby who isn’t here—your story still matters.

You are allowed to celebrate and grieve at the same time. You’re allowed to hold both joy and sadness in the same session. I create space for all of it.

Whether you bring a symbol of remembrance, speak their name aloud, or simply carry that memory silently—I will hold it with care.

Thank you for reading my blog! I love sharing real stories and beautiful moments from my clients. If you’re interested in booking a session, click here to get in touch!

read now

Read More Articles

I got the chance to capture the sweetest in-home newborn session with an amazing family! These sessions are my favorite because we get all those snuggly, real-life moments right in the comfort of your own home. No need to pack up and go anywhere! You can just relax and be yourselves. The kids can play, parents can cuddle, and everyone can just enjoy being together. If you’re thinking about newborn photos, doing them at home is such perfect way capture these precious early days.

Dad holding daughter in living room during in-home newborn session
Mom and daughter with newborn brother laughing together on the couch
Mom and daughter with newborn brother laughing together on the couch
Newborn baby boy and big sister on bed laying
Newborn baby boy and big sister on bed laying with dog
Black and white portrait of newborn baby boy and big sister on bed laying
Family with dog cuddling on the bed with newborn lifestyle session
Family with dog cuddling on the bed during newborn lifestyle session
Newborn baby boy in white swaddle in bassinet
Newborn baby boy in mom's arms in blue outfit sleeping on bed
Brother and sister lying in basket on bed
Close up portraits of newborn baby boy in white and tan basket on bed
Family laughing together in boy's nursery with dog during in-home session
Black and white portrait close ups of newborn baby in crib
Newborn baby boy yawning in basket on a cozy blanket
Newborn baby boy in knit sweater with hand up and eyes open during photo session
Newborn baby boy wrapped swaddle laying on white knit blanket
Close up portraits of mom kissing newborn baby boy during lifestyle session in home
Close up portraits of mom smiling at newborn baby boy in front of blue wall
Close up black and white image of newborn baby boy sleeping in dad's arms
Newborn baby in swaddle on bed in basket during newborn lifestyle
Mom holding baby boy in white rocking chair in front of blue wall
Newborn baby cuddling with big sister on bed in basket during newborn lifestyle

In-Home Newborn Session

I had the most amazing time with Stephanie and her beautiful family. Stephanie and her husband John have four amazing bigger kiddos, who love their littlest brother John Jr! Watching all of the kids interact with their baby brother reminds me of my own family, where there’s a big 12-year age gap between their oldest and youngest. I feel so honored to get the chance to work with beautiful families like Stephanie’s.

Black and white portrait of Newborn baby during a family photo shoot in Spring Hill, FL studio
Close up posed newborn baby images of little boy during family photo shoot in Spring Hill, FL studio
Newborn baby sleeping during in studio lifestyle session in Spring Hill, FL studio
Black and white images of Newborn baby sleeping during a family photo shoot in Spring Hill, FL studio
Sleeping baby during a newborn photo shoot in Spring Hill, FL studio
Siblings bonding and enjoying time together during a family photo shoot in Spring Hill, FL studio
Close-up of a newborn baby swaddled in a cozy blanket in a Spring Hill, FL photography studio
Newborn baby sleeping soundly during a professional photo shoot in Spring Hill, FL
Newborn baby held by mom and dad in a family photo session in Spring Hill, FL
Happy family moments with a newborn baby in a relaxed Spring Hill, FL photography session
Black and white image of newborn baby stretching arms during a Spring Hill, FL photo shoot
Newborn baby adored by mom and dad in a family portrait session in Spring Hill, FL
Black and white portrait close-up of a newborn baby's expressive face in a Spring Hill, FL photo session

Stephanie’s Newborn Session

Debbie came in for an adorable Mommy & Me session with her handsome son, and dad joined in on some of the fun! We started with mama in a lovely white dress, and her little man looked dapper in suspenders and a bow tie. Next, we moved to one of my favorite new sets, the Little Artist! Mom and her son had a blast painting together. I can’t wait to see them again when he’s a bit bigger!

Mom and son smiling during a session at springhill florida photography studio
Mom and son enjoying a photography session at springhill florida photography studio
Smiling mom and son in a mama and me session at springhill florida photography studio
Mom and son laughing together at springhill florida photography studio
Smiling mom and son playing on a bed in a session at springhill florida photography studio
black and white portrait of little boy smiling and crawling on bed at springhill florida photography studio
Happy moments with mom and son at springhill florida photography studio.
black and white portrait of Happy family with dad, mom, and son laughing at springhill florida photography studio
Joyful moments with mom and son at springhill florida photography studio
Mom, dad, and son sharing a happy moment at springhill florida photography studio
Little Artist session with mom, son, canvases, and blue paint at springhill florida photography studio
Mom and son enjoying their Little Artist session at springhill florida photography studio
Mom and son creating art together at springhill florida photography studio
black and white portrait of Artistic mom and son with canvases and blue paint at springhill florida photography studio
Happy mom and son painting with blue brushes at springhill florida photography studio
Joyful mom and son using blue paint and brushes at springhill florida photography studio
Artistic fun with mom, son, and blue paint at springhill florida photography studio
Mom and son enjoying their creative time at springhill florida photography studio
Little Artist session with little boy in white onesie using blue paint at springhill florida photography studio
close up of little boy's feet painting on a canvas at springhill florida photography studio
Son having fun with blue paint at springhill florida photography studio.
Son in a white onesie creating art at springhill florida photography studio
Happy little boy with paint all over him at springhill florida photography studio
Little boy in a white onesie painting with blue paint at springhill florida photography studio
black and white portrait of little boy painting on a canvas at springhill florida photography studio
Happy toddler using a paintbrush and blue paint at springhill florida photography studio
Toddler in a white onesie creating art at springhill florida photography studio

Debbie’s Mommy & Me – Little Artist

Sarah and her beautiful family booked a session with me and chose a stunning neutral color palette. Her two adorable daughters looked precious in their dresses, and the proud big brother wore the cutest button-up shirt and shorts. You can see just how much fun they had playing with all of the little toys we have in studio! We wrapped up with some professional headshots for dad – doesn’t he look handsome?

Brother and two sisters sitting on neutral bed during family session in Springhill florida studio
Siblings playing in woven basket in boho studio  in Springhill florida
Siblings playing in woven basket  in Springhill florida studio
Close up portraits of brother and baby sister playing during family session in Springhill florida studio
Black and white portraits of baby girl smiling and laughing  in Springhill florida studio
Close up portraits of siblings with dad smiling and playing in Springhill florida studio
Family portraits at boho studio in neutral tones in Springhill florida studio
Black and white portraits of toddler girl playing with knit bunny stuffed animal in Springhill florida studio
Family portraits with mom, dad, and three siblings in Springhill florida studio
Close up black and white images of baby daughter with mom in Springhill florida studio
Close up smiling portraits of big brother playing during family session in Springhill florida studio
Black and white photo of big brother  in Springhill florida studio
Professional headshot portraits of dad in dark blue suit in Springhill florida studio

The Most Beautiful Family Session

Alexis and her family came to see me for a newborn lifestyle session, and I am absolutely smitten! Little man’s brother and sister were overjoyed with their new baby brother, and their smiles and giggles were infectious. Mom and dad couldn’t be more thrilled, and mom looked stunning in a gorgeous neutral dress from my client closet.

Newborn baby snuggling with dad in studio
Newborn baby boy cuddling with mom in beige dress in studio
Close up portrait of newborn baby in Springhill Florida studio
Family newborn portraits of baby in Springhill Florida studio
Picture of dad in white button up shirt kissing mom while holding newborn in Springhill Florida studio
Smiling photo of newborn baby and parents in Springhill Florida studio
Family portraits with newborn baby and siblings with mom and dad in Springhill Florida studio
Brother and sister laughing during newborn family session in Springhill Florida studio
Close up sibling portraits of brother and sister with newborn sibling in Springhill Florida studio
Mom and dad snuggling with newborn on rug in white Springhill Florida studio
Close up portrait of newborn baby with mom and dad and hands on baby in Springhill Florida studio
Newborn portraits of family with new baby in Springhill Florida studio
Mom and dad and brother and sister with newborn baby in front of white wall in Springhill Florida studio
Dad holding newborn baby boy in Springhill Florida studio
Family portraits of dad holding newborn baby in Springhill Florida studio with siblings
Posed newborn photo of baby boy with dark hair on white pillow in Springhill Florida studio
Black and white newborn baby portraits in Springhill Florida studio
Mom and dad holding newborn baby while sleeping in arms in Springhill Florida studio
Black and white close up portraits of dad with newborn baby boy in Springhill Florida studio
Close up photos of posed newborn baby boy sleeping in Springhill Florida studio
Yawning portrait of newborn baby boy in Springhill Florida studio

Newborn Session with Alexis & Family

This session was super special because Beckett is almost the same age as my youngest kiddo. It’s wild seeing my little clients grow up so fast—babies really don’t waste any time, huh? Oh, and just so you know, I edit all the pics in both color and black & white! It’s my way of making sure your memories look awesome, no matter the vibe. It’s seriously the coolest thing watching these tiny humans change and grow, and I’m stoked I get to capture these moments. If you want a photographer who’s all about keeping it real and making your memories pop, I’m your gal!

Beckett is 6 months old!

@YOURUSERnAME

Instagram @Nadinebphoto