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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Mom and I had originally planned for a dreamy sunset beach session, but as we all know, sometimes our little ones can have other plans! When I was driving around, I found these beautiful ruins on the side of the road and told mom about them, and it ended up being the perfect location for an early morning session. We met super early, before the heat came out, and it was still nice and shady. And get this – Baby A was exactly 6 months on the day of her session! How perfect was that?!
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!
to Plan for Christmas!
As the holiday season approaches, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about capturing those special moments with your family. Booking a Christmas mini session early ensures you get a spot and have your photos ready in time to share with loved ones. My Christmas Minis offer a unique and festive experience at Blue Acres Christmas Tree Farm, perfect for creating timeless holiday memories. Don’t wait until the last minute—times fill up quickly, so book your session today and embrace the joy and magic of the season!
Don’t miss out! Book your Christmas Mini Tree Farm session today!
Newborn sessions are my absolute favorite, especially when the whole gang tags along! Check out how stunning Britt’s family is in their color-coordinated outfits. And their littlest baby girl? An absolute dream! I don’t think I’ll ever stop obsessing over these. Which one’s your favorite?!
Luisa and Tristan joined me for an amazing beach maternity session at Honeymoon Island, and it was pure magic! Luisa started off in a cute green bikini with a knit beige over dress, while Tristan rocked some jeans. Then she switched to ripped jeans and an open white button-up – she looked absolutely stunning. It was SO much fun switching outfits out! We finished the session up with Luisa in a black bikini, playing around in the water. The sunset at golden hour was incredible, with beautiful pink and orange tones lighting up the sky. It was the perfect end to a perfect session.
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?
