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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.
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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!
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There’s something extra special about an in-home newborn session. It’s cozy, personal, and tells your story in the space where real life happens. But I totally get it—letting someone into your home (especially during those early postpartum days) can feel a little overwhelming. So today, I’m breaking down some of my favorite tips to make your session relaxed, meaningful, and totally doable.
And I just have to share this particular in-home newborn session in Tampa, because it was such an honor. Mom is actually a fellow photographer, which always feels like the highest compliment… and just a tiny bit nerve-wracking 😅. It’s humbling to be trusted by someone who does what I do—so naturally, I wanted to make the experience as seamless and comfortable as possible.
Why Choose an In-Home Newborn Session?
As a Tampa newborn photographer, I can tell you—there’s nothing quite like capturing a new family in their own space. No need to pack diaper bags, juggle car seats, or work around nap schedules. You’re already where you feel most at ease, and that calm energy always shows up in your photos.
Your home also adds a beautiful layer of storytelling. That couch where you cuddle with your baby every morning? The nursery you lovingly set up? They become part of the legacy we’re documenting. An in-home newborn session allows your photos to reflect your life, not just a Pinterest-perfect setup.
Tips to Prep Your Home (Without Going Overboard)
Let me be super clear: your home doesn’t need to look like a magazine. I’m not judging your dishes or your laundry pile. Promise.
But here’s what does help:
- Choose 2–4 spots in the home with good natural light—think big windows, sliding doors, or bright corners.
- Tidy just those areas. Seriously—move the mess to one side of the room if needed. I shoot from multiple angles, so the more space I can work with, the better.
- Turn off overhead lights (they cast weird yellow tones) and open up the blinds for that dreamy, soft light.
- If we’re doing baby-only shots, crank the heat a little. A warm room keeps your little one comfy and sleepy.
How to Prep Yourself + Baby
Don’t worry about everything being “perfect.” Honestly, I live for the in-between moments—nursing, rocking, soothing, diaper changes. It’s your real life, and it’s so worth capturing.
A few tips to make the session feel smoother:
- Feed baby just before I arrive so they’re nice and snuggly.
- For older kiddos, having snacks or a quiet activity nearby can be a lifesaver.
- Wear neutral, comfy clothes—skip logos or bright neon. Stick to tones that feel calm and true to you.
- Let toddlers be toddlers. The best photos come when they’re allowed to be themselves. I’ll guide them gently, but there’s no pressure for them to be quiet or still. I promise—I’d rather photograph a joyful, wild-hearted child than one who’s been told to “say cheese” a hundred times.
- And if your baby cries? That’s okay too. Chaos can still be beautiful.
The Energy of This Session
This particular session felt like magic. Seeing a photographer-mama fully hand over the reins and trust the process was so powerful. Big sister was full of life and totally rocked her role. Their home gave us the dreamiest light, the perfect cozy vibe, and everything felt real and warm from start to finish.
As a lifestyle newborn photographer in Tampa, these are the sessions that remind me why I do what I do.
Ready for Your Own In-Home Newborn Session?
Whether this is your first baby or your fifth, your story deserves to be told. In-home newborn sessions are raw, connected, and full of love—everything we want your photos to reflect.
If you’re in the Tampa Bay area and dreaming of relaxed, real-life newborn photos that feel like you, I’d love to hear from you.
In-home sessions capture your baby’s earliest days in the place that matters most—home. If you’re ready for a relaxed newborn session in Tampa or nearby, reach out and let’s get you on the calendar.
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I had the sweetest newborn session at Spring Hill Studio with this beautiful family—Mom, Dad, their newborn daughter, and their toddler big sister. Everyone was dressed in white, which gave the whole session such a timeless feel.
The session was filled with all those precious family moments—big sister loving on her new baby sibling, and the proud parents soaking in those early newborn days. It was so much fun capturing the connection between them all, especially seeing how excited big sister was!
This maternity session at Vibe Studio Spring Hill was such a sweet one with Mom, Dad, and their little girl. Mom wore two outfits from my client closet—a black bodysuit and a white two-piece top and skirt. She looked absolutely stunning in both!
We captured some playful moments with their daughter and the whole family, and you could feel the love. Such a fun way to celebrate their growing family!
Check out more on IG: @vibestudiospringhill.
I recently got to capture a milestone session at Spring Hill Studio for the cutest little girl and her family. Mom, Dad, big brother, and their sweet baby girl made this session so much fun!
From giggles with her big brother to snuggles with Mom and Dad and a few naps in between, every moment was so special. It’s always so much fun to capture these milestone moments, especially when the whole family is there.
This session at Spring Hill Studio was all about celebrating her big milestones with the people who love her most. I’m so glad I could document these moments for them to look back on!
I had the chance to photograph this beautiful couple’s maternity session at the Spring Hill Studio, and it was so much fun. They started off wearing soft neutral tones, which was so perfect for their photos. Toward the end of the session, they switched it up with jeans and white tops—super casual, super comfortable. And so much fun!
It was a fun and laid-back shoot, capturing the excitement as they get ready for their little one. I am so excited to see them soon for their newborn session!
This was such a fun and loving session with Sidney and Austin! Shooting indoors with air conditioning was an absolute lifesaver, especially considering how hot it’s been and how being super pregnant in this heat is no joke. The comfort of the studio allowed us to focus on capturing these special moments without worrying about the weather. These two were so fun to work with, and I can’t wait to see them again for their newborn session.
