What is a Fresh 48 Session?
A Fresh 48 session is a relaxed newborn photography session that takes place during the first 48 hours after your baby is born, usually while you are still at the hospital or birth center. It's a way to preserve those incredibly fleeting first moments- the tiny hospital details, sleepy snuggles, introductions with siblings... the way your baby is so tiny and new.
As a Fresh 48 photographer serving Tyler and East Texas families, my approach is natural and documentary-inspired. There are no elaborate poses or props. Instead, I focus on your connection with your new baby and all of the little details you'll want to remember once those first days become a blur..
What happens during a Fresh 48 session?
Fresh 48 sessions typically last about an hour, giving us plenty of time without making an already busy day feel overwhelming.
There can be a lot going on in a hospital room after a baby arrives, with doctors and nurses coming and going throughout the day. Whenever possible, I like to schedule your session after lunch on the day following baby's birth, once morning rounds have slowed down. Another option is to schedule it shortly before you're discharged and heading home.
Before your session, it can be helpful to do a quick tidy of the room. Extra blankets and pillows can be tucked into the closet, and things like food trays, cups and trash can be cleared away. Don't worry about making the room perfect— When I arrive, I'm happy to help move a few things out of sight or take care of any little details that might be distracting in your photographs.
And because we're working in a hospital, we'll simply work around whatever happens. If a nurse needs to come in, baby needs to eat, or you need a few minutes, that's perfectly fine. Your care and baby's needs always come first.
While I encourage parents to be part of their Fresh 48 photographs, I also understand that every mom feels differently after giving birth. You can be in as many—or as few—photographs as you're comfortable with. We can focus more on baby and the little details if that's what feels right to you that day.
Can siblings be included in a Fresh 48 Session?
Absolutely. If your hospital's visitor policy allows it, older siblings are welcome to be part of your Fresh 48 session. Some of my favorite moments to photograph are the quiet, unscripted ones—a big brother or sister peeking into the bassinet, gently touching tiny fingers, snuggling beside Mom, or simply taking in this brand-new little person who has suddenly become part of their family.
There’s no expectation for young children to sit still or pose perfectly. I let them interact naturally and photograph the connection as it unfolds. Those first introductions can be sweet, curious, emotional, and sometimes a little unpredictable—and that's part of what makes them worth remembering.
Years from now, these photographs aren't only for you. They're also a way for your older child to see what it looked and felt like when they first became a big brother or sister.
What should I wear for a Fresh 48?
Comfort is the most important thing. You've just had a baby, so choose something you feel comfortable and beautiful in. Soft, simple pieces in neutral or muted colors photograph especially well in a hospital room and keep the attention on you and your new baby.
Many moms choose a soft robe with a coordinating swaddle or blanket for baby, which can be such a sweet way to bring everything together. Matching mama-and-baby sets are beautiful for Fresh 48 photographs, but they're certainly not necessary. A robe or comfortable dress you already love works just as well.
For Dad, there's no need to dress formally. A simple neutral T-shirt, henley or button-down works beautifully and coordinates easily without everyone needing to match.
For baby, simple is often best. A favorite swaddle, plain onesie, special blanket, or even the hospital blanket can be perfect. If you've brought a special outfit or something meaningful from home, we can incorporate that too.
Don't feel like your family needs to be perfectly coordinated. Choose soft, comfortable pieces that feel like you—the focus will always be on your new baby and your connection with one another.
When should I book my Fresh 48 photography session?
It's best to reserve your Fresh 48 session while you're still pregnant. Since we won't know exactly when your baby will arrive, I'll add your due date to my calendar and we'll stay in touch as you get closer.
Once baby is here, just send me a message and we'll choose the best time for your session based on when you expect to go home, how you're feeling, and your hospital's schedule. Fresh 48 sessions usually take place the day after baby is born or before you're discharged.
If your baby has already arrived and you didn't book ahead, you're still welcome to reach out. If I have availability while you're in the hospital, I may be able to accommodate a last-minute Fresh 48 session.
Your Baby's first days only happen once.
The hospital stay can feel like such a small piece of your baby's story, but it's filled with details that disappear almost immediately—the hospital bracelet around a tiny wrist, the way they fit against your chest, Dad holding them for the first time, and the beginning of a brand-new relationship between siblings.
A Fresh 48 session gives you a way to hold onto a little piece of those first days long after you've gone home.
If you're expecting a baby in Tyler or the surrounding East Texas area and would love to document these first moments, I'd love to hear from you.
