How to Prepare for a Fresh48 Session

Before we dive into how to prepare for a Fresh48 session, let’s talk about what a Fresh48 Session is.

Having a baby is both thrilling and exhausting, and the memories can all blur together as you dive into the whirlwind of motherhood. Fresh48 sessions are designed to capture the raw emotions and fleeting moments of this incredible time. These sessions are all about authenticity and have a documentary style—there are no props or posed shots, just you and your brand-new baby, exactly as you are.

This session documents your newborn baby and takes place within the first 48 hours after birth, whether at a hospital, birthing center, or home.

To pull this session off, you will pre-book this session, and your due date will go onto my calendar. As you get closer to your due date, you’ll keep me in the loop about when you head to the hospital, any induction or C-section plans, etc. Once the baby is born, you’ll notify me right away so we can figure out a good time for me to come in for this session. Usually, it’s the morning after the baby is born.

What to Wear

First and foremost, go for something comfortable! Most moms opt for a cozy robe, yoga pants, and a nursing tank top. Here are some great options to help you pick what to wear for your Fresh48 session:

Kindred Bravely
Dwell and Slumber
Any of the Target matching PJ sets
Storq
Pink Blush

For dads, a simple T-shirt and jeans work perfectly. Go with a neutral, solid-colored shirt to avoid distractions from your new baby. Steer clear of busy patterns, bright colors, and logos.

Keep things relaxed and comfortable for everyone.

Don’t stress about looking glamorous right after giving birth. Pack some tinted moisturizer, mascara, and dry shampoo in your hospital bag, and you’ll be set.

For the baby, stick with the hospital shirt, diaper, and swaddle. These items are great for capturing their first couple of days. If you want to use a special swaddle or hat, I’m happy to include those in some photos at the end of the session.

Before I Arrive

I have a short to-do list for you/your partner to make this session as smooth as possible.

1. Notify the nursing staff that you will be doing your photo session for 30-45 minutes and to please keep interruptions to a minimum during this time.
   
2. Give baby one last feeding before I arrive so they are nice and sleepy.
   
3. Turn up the heat (or lower the A/C) so baby is comfortable during unswaddled photos.
   
4. Open up all the blinds and clear the sitting area near the window.

What to Expect During the Fresh48 Session

I typically start by taking photos of the baby in the bassinet, and then we’ll move on to photos with parents and the family.

During the session, I’ll give you easy prompts and aim to get all the photos within 30-45 minutes to keep things as relaxed and stress-free as possible.

If the baby gets fussy or needs to eat, don’t worry! I can capture nursing moments or use the time to document the details of your hospital room.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if my baby doesn’t arrive on their due date?
Babies rarely arrive as scheduled, and I am prepared for early or late arrivals. When you book a Fresh 48 session, weeks 38-41 are blocked off on the calendar, meaning that if your baby arrives anytime during this window, I will be available.

Can my older children be in the photos?
Of course! One of the best moments to capture is big brother or sister meeting the new baby for the first time. I suggest we begin the session without older kids out of the room to focus on the new baby and then your partner/grandparents can bring them in for the big introduction!

How do we contact you once the baby arrives?
Email or text is best. Have your partner let me know as soon as possible after the baby is born. Most Fresh48 Sessions take place the morning after the baby is born, and all sessions must take place during daylight hours.

Do you travel to Portland for Fresh48 Sessions?
Yes!

How do I book a Fresh48 Session?
Head over to my contact page and fill out this short form. Please let me know that you are interested in a Fresh48, your due date, and where you plan to deliver.