So, you’ve booked your Fresh 48 session. Yay! Now how to prepare for a Fresh 48 session that is relaxed and results in meaningful images. Preparing for a Fresh 48 session involves both practical considerations and personal preferences. Here are some tips to help you prepare for a successful and enjoyable session:

Communication in Key When Preparing for Your Fresh 48 Session:

Communication with me is an important part of preparing for your Fresh 48 session. I advise clients to text me when labor has started. This allows me to prepare childcare for my child and to expect to see you in the next day of two. Please discuss expectations and preferences with me before the session. Examples of this would be if you do not want images feeding, or would like more raw and intimate skin to skin images. If you have any specific shots or pairings, example baby and older siblings, it is important for me to know this prior to your session.

Timing and Scheduling:

Because birth is unpredictable, timing and scheduling vary. Obviously I’m not going to show up at 2 a.m. if baby is born in the wee hours of the night. But I will do my best to arrive around 10 a.m. or 11 a.m. if possible. You will need to check with hospital or birth center staff to confirm specific visiting hours. It is also helpful for me to know if any potential changes arise involving baby’s birth. Especially if a scheduled cesarean or induction has been arranged with your provider. Read above point on communication!

Hospital/Birthing Center Policies Regarding Fresh 48 Session:

We live in a post pandemic world. Meaning hospital or birthing center policies regarding visitors and photography may shift. Confirm with your provider if there are any restrictions or guidelines that need to be followed in preparation for your Fresh 48 session.

Prepare the Room for Your Photo Session:

If possible, have your partner tidy up the hospital room or birthing space a little. This means clearing visual clutter and trash from the space. This is something I may also do when I arrive. So if you forget about it, because you have a lot going on with healing and loving your new baby, do not worry about it.

Clothing Choices to Prepare for Your Fresh 48:

Choose comfortable and coordinating outfits for yourself, your partner, and any older siblings. Consider neutral and soft colors that complement the hospital environment. Check out this What to Wear for a Fresh 48 Session post for more information on preparing outfits.

Bring Props and Personal Items:

Consider bringing props or items that have personal significance, such as a special blanket or stuffed animal. Also bring any items you want to incorporate into the photos, like a baby name sign or a special onesie. I suggest adding these all to your birth bag as you prepare it in the weeks leading up to baby’s arrival.

Feeding and Comfort During your Photo Session:

Be prepared for the baby’s needs, including feeding and diaper changes. Fresh 48 sessions take a documentary approach and are relatively quick so you can continue to rest and bond with your baby. If you do not want nursing images, please communicate this with me before your session and be sure to give baby a good feeding before I arrive. Have necessary items on hand, such as extra diapers, wipes, and a comfortable blanket for the baby.

Natural Lighting vs Flash:

I am predominantly a natural light photographer. We will use a large window for good natural lighting. However, because hospital lighting and gloomy Eugene weather don’t always provide the best lighting situations for indoor portraits, I may use an external bounce flash if needed. This is not your typical light blasted in your face type of flash. I will bounce the flash off the ceiling to keep you from being blinded and create an even and natural looking light source.

Prepare for a Relaxed and Enjoyable Fresh 48 Session:

Remember that Fresh 48 sessions aim to capture authentic and candid moments, so try to relax and enjoy the time with your newborn. Trust me to guide the session and capture the special moments as they unfold.

By taking these steps, you can help create a comfortable and enjoyable environment for your Fresh 48 session, ensuring that you capture meaningful and cherished moments with your newborn.

I’m looking forward to collaborating with you on documenting this sentimental time in your families life. If you have any question, reach out. I’m happy to help! I always encourage clients to follow me on Instagram @Luxmarinaphotography to more easily establish a connection before your session. As well as to stay up to date on helpful information like I’ve shared in this post.

Warmly,

Amanda Reiling

Owner/Photography Lux Marina Photography