Motherhood
My journal about
Tender moments, real emotions, and the beautiful journey of motherhood captured in timeless photographs.
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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I had the most fun photo session with these adorable kiddos enjoying summer to the max. We set up an inflatable pool, brought out the hose, and added some colorful blow-up balls for extra fun. The kids had an absolute blast splashing around, playing with the water, and laughing non-stop. It was a perfect way to capture the joy and excitement of summertime. If you’re looking for a way to freeze those happy summer moments, a fun-filled water session like this is the way to go!
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.
Hey there! Ready to make some magical holiday memories? Join me for a Holiday Mini Session at Blue Acres Christmas Tree Farm in Tampa. These 15-minute sessions are perfect for capturing those special moments with your family.
What’s Included?
- Location: Blue Acres Christmas Tree Farm
- Duration: 15-minute session
- Turnaround: 1-2 weeks
- Images: 10 hand-edited digital images delivered in a private gallery
- Upgrade: Option to upgrade for more images if available
- Who: Immediate family only (due to time and space constraints)
If you need more time or have a larger group, I’ve got you! There are four 1-hour session spots available on the mornings of November 23rd and 24th. Just let me know if you’re interested.
Don’t miss out on booking these sessions, as spots are super limited! Book your session here: https://book.usesession.com/s/g21ptgGUI
I recently had a super fun beach maternity session with a blonde mom, her hubby, their little girl, and their little boy. They were all in cute white outfits, and mom rocked a two-piece from our client closet—she’s a photographer too! The kids had a blast playing in the sand while mom and dad enjoyed some sweet moments together. It was such a fun, happy session by the ocean. Can’t wait to see them again for their newborn shoot!
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.
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.
