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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 a common myth floating around that newborn photos have to happen within the first two weeks of life. And while those early days do make for sweet, sleepy portraits, I’m here to tell you something important:
It’s not too late.
Older newborns—whether they’re 6, 8, or even 10 weeks old—are still very much in that tender new stage. Their expressions are changing, their eyes are bright, and their little personalities are starting to peek through. And when I take your session outside? There’s something extra magical that happens.
Why You Don’t Need to Rush
Those first few weeks can feel like a blur. You’re healing. You’re adjusting. You’re barely sleeping. Sometimes, just getting through the day feels like a win.
I want you to know:
Your baby is still perfect for photos.
You didn’t miss anything.
Older newborns may not curl up as tightly, but they bring their own kind of beauty:
- Soft stretches and growing rolls
- Big, curious eyes
- Little sounds and smirks
- Moments of alertness and connection
It’s a different kind of session—but in all the best ways.
What an Older Newborn Session Feels Like
If your baby is past that early sleepy phase, your session will look a little different than a “fresh 48.” But that doesn’t make it any less meaningful.
Here’s what I typically see with older newborns:
- More awake time. Lots of eye contact and interaction.
- Natural positioning. Less curled-up posing, more relaxed holds, over-the-shoulder snuggles, or cozy blanket wraps.
- More personality. Tiny “talks,” smiles, and stretches start to emerge—those moments are gold.
- Flexible pacing. I always follow baby’s lead and build in time for feeding, diaper changes, and snuggles.
- Posing is possible, but not guaranteed. Some older babies may still allow gentle posing, but once they’re more alert and wiggly, I shift into lifestyle-led moments instead.
You don’t need to worry about your baby being “too awake” or “too wiggly.” I promise—some of the most heartfelt images I’ve taken were of wide-eyed, wriggly newborns just being their little selves.
Why I Love Outdoor Newborn Sessions for This Age
When you step outside, everything softens. The filtered light, the fresh air, the natural textures—they create a relaxed space where everyone can breathe a little easier.
Outdoor newborn sessions are especially lovely for older babies. Here’s why:
- No studio lights or noise. Just natural light and space to move.
- Soothing background sounds. Wind in the trees, birds in the distance—it helps calm both babies and parents.
- Organic posing. I often photograph babies being held upright or stretched across a parent’s arms, which works beautifully at this stage.
- Timeless backdrops. Trees, wildflowers, golden grass—they don’t need much else to feel complete.
These sessions often feel more like a quiet walk with your baby than a photo shoot—and the images reflect that same sense of ease and connection.
If You’ve Been Hesitating, This is Your Sign
I hear it all the time:
“She’s already 7 weeks… did I miss the window?”
“I really wanted newborn photos, but life got busy.”
“Can we still do it?”
Yes. You can.
You’re right on time.
This isn’t about capturing perfection—it’s about preserving this part of the journey. It’s about storytelling, connection, and celebrating your baby exactly as they are right now.
Whether I meet you in your home or out in the golden light of Spring Hill, your session will reflect your baby’s unique rhythm—and your love for them in this exact season.
Thank you for reading my blog. If you’re thinking about scheduling a session and your baby is a little older—I’d love to connect. These are some of the most powerful sessions I get to photograph, and I promise, it’s not too late.
Click here to reach out and get more info, or join my email list to be the first to know about upcoming availability and special session dates.
Let’s tell your story—your way.