Fresh 48 Session Guide
Dallas Fort Worth Fresh 48 Photography
Hey Mama
The first days with your little one are unlike anything else. From the little newborn details that change so quickly to the family meetings that you’ll want to remember forever. This guide is here to help you prepare and plan for celebrating those first days with your new baby. You might be wondering what exactly a Fresh 48 session is, or perhaps you aren’t sure how everything works. What should everyone wear? As your experienced Dallas Fort Worth Fresh 48 photographer, I'm here to answer all those questions, simplify the process and give you a stress-free experience that results in a beautiful set of images that documents this precious window of time with your brand new baby.
What is a ‘Fresh 48’ session?
A Fresh 48 is a newborn session that takes place within the first 48 hours of your baby’s life. These sessions typically take place at the hospital or your place of birth and celebrate the many firsts that occur in those fleeting early days. Its a great way to document those brand new baby details, sibling and family introductions and all those newborn baby snuggles.
When does the session take place?
Ideal timing is when baby is 24-48 hours old. Once your baby arrives you will reach out as soon as possible so we can have the most flexibility in scheduling. Fresh 48 sessions are scheduled during daylight hours so we can utilize natural light.
What Should baby Wear?
Sweet & Simple
A onesie, gown or other cozy outfit is a simple choice that photographs beautifully.
Hospital Swaddle
You can’t go wrong using the classic hospital swaddle and hat.
Bare Baby
That new baby skin is so soft, you don’t want to forget those fresh baby details.
Unique to You
Name blankets and welcome baby signs are a great way to personalize the session.
“What should the rest of us wear?”
You will be in the early days of healing after birth so plan to wear something comfy. Flowy Dress. Robe. Pajamas. Breastfeeding friendly is always a bonus.
Neutrals and soft colors are always a good choice for you and your family.
Day of Session Tips
Feed baby before my arrival
As close to session time as possible, change baby’s diaper and get them ready in one of your chosen outfits. After changed, feed baby. Starting the session with a full and sleepy baby works best.
If baby needs to feed again during the session, no problem, I love to incorporate breastfeeding or bottle feeding.
Inform Hospital Staff & Schedule prior to procedures
It can be helpful to let your nurse know that your family and photographer will be arriving and visiting for up to 2 hours.
This can help reduce the risk of additional newborn procedures being scheduled right before or during the session.
Plan Sibling & Family arrival
Capturing the first meeting of siblings and baby is important. Once we decide on a time it’s usually best to inform those bringing the siblings to come just after so I can be ready and waiting with you to capture their true first reactions. With siblings being involved it’s completely normal for their reactions to be everything from pure joy to ‘no thank you'. The best way to handle this is to keep attitudes toward the session relaxed and positive.
I hope this Fresh 48 guide was helpful as you prepare for your session. Have questions or want to schedule a session, contact me here.
Kathryn Johnson is a Dallas Fort Worth Birth Photographer who celebrates motherhood through maternity, birth, fresh 48 and newborn photography.