The arrival of a baby is a monumental moment in any family’s life. The first few hours and days are filled with emotion, love, and wonder as parents meet their little one for the first time. While traditional newborn sessions often take place within the first two weeks of life, there’s another type of session that’s become increasingly popular: the Fresh 48.
A Fresh 48 session is an intimate and documentary-style photography shoot that captures the first 48 hours of a baby’s life that is typically taken at the hospital or birth center. These sessions are all about the raw, authentic moments of the early days and captures the unfiltered beauty of a new family as they embrace the newest member in their lives.
Why Choose a Fresh 48 Session?
A Real and Authentic Story There are no frills, no over-the-top setups—just genuine, candid moments of a family bonding with their baby. From you holding your baby to the tiny hands grasping a finger, a Fresh 48 session captures these fleeting moments that can easily be forgotten. The joy, the tears, and even the exhaustion from labor are part of the story.
The First Glimpse of Your Newborn While some parents opt for a traditional newborn session, a Fresh 48 offers the opportunity to document the first moments when a newborn meets the world. Whether it’s capturing the little feet or the way parents gaze at their newborn, these photos evoke an emotional connection to the first few hours when everything feels new.
Perfect for Those Who Want to Remember the Birth Experience A Fresh 48 session is ideal for those who want to remember the magic of the birth experience but don’t want a full birth story session. It’s a more relaxed approach to newborn photography compared to traditional sessions, with minimal involvement and a focus on real emotions. Some parents may feel overwhelmed after childbirth, and having a photographer come to them can help them preserve the memory without added stress.
What to Expect During a Fresh 48 Session
A Quiet, Non-Intrusive Environment The session will take place at the hospital or birth center within the first 48 hours after birth. I will arrive the morning after baby is born when you are settled and ready to begin bonding with your baby. There’s no rush, and the goal is to document the natural moments as they unfold.
Documenting the Details The beauty of a Fresh 48 session lies in the details. The tiny fingers, the hospital bracelet, the little knitted hats, and the first moments of skin-to-skin contact are all part of the story. Expect to see close-ups of your baby’s face, hands, and feet, as well as photos of you gazing at your little one or cuddling together.
Gentle Direction I will guide you through the session with subtle directions, encouraging you to hold your baby, interact with them, and share those special moments. There will be no forced poses or stiff smiles—just natural, loving connections.
Candid, Emotional Photos One of the things that makes Fresh 48 sessions so magical is the raw emotion captured. You may feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or euphoric, and all of that shows in the photos. From tears of joy to laughter, the photographs will capture what it feels like in those precious first days.
Tips for a Successful Fresh 48 Session
Prepare for Your Hospital Stay While Fresh 48 sessions focus on raw, real moments, it’s still helpful to bring a few things to the hospital. Simple items like a comfy robe, slippers, or your baby’s going-home outfit can enhance the photos and make you feel comfortable during the shoot.
Keep It Simple Don’t worry about creating a perfectly staged room. The beauty of a Fresh 48 is that it’s a snapshot of real life, with hospital blankets, baby swaddles, and soft lighting. It’s all about the connection, not the props.
Take It Easy Labor and delivery can be exhausting, so don’t stress about being “photo-ready.” I will be there to capture genuine moments, and you’ll be amazed at how beautiful and meaningful those natural moments can be.
The Timeless Keepsake
Once your session is over, you’ll have a collection of photos that serve as a timeless reminder of those first, precious hours with your newborn. These images will be treasured for years to come, and you’ll have them to look back on as your baby grows and changes. The beauty of a Fresh 48 is that it tells a unique story—your story—as a family, and it captures the very beginning of your journey together.
If you’re looking to preserve the magic of your baby’s first days, consider scheduling a Fresh 48 session with me today. You’ll cherish these authentic memories long after your baby’s first birthday and beyond.