Fresh 48 vs. Studio Newborn Sessions: Which One is Right for You?

Welcoming a new baby into the world is one of life’s most unforgettable experiences. Between the tiny fingers, sleepy stretches, and that overwhelming sense of wow, we did this, the first few days are a blur of emotion. As a photographer (and a mom), I know how important it is to freeze those fleeting moments—and how personal that decision can be.

Two of the most popular options for capturing those early memories are Fresh 48 sessions and Studio Newborn sessions. They’re both beautiful in their own way—but they tell very different stories. So which one is right for your family?

Let’s break it down.

What is a Fresh 48 Session?

A Fresh 48 session takes place within the first two days after your baby is born—usually in your hospital room, birthing center, or at home if you've had a home birth. These sessions are raw, unfiltered, and full of emotion. There’s no posing, no props, and no pressure—just real moments as they unfold.

Pros of Fresh 48 Sessions

• Authentic memories. These photos capture your baby just as they are in the very beginning—brand new, wrinkly, and impossibly tiny.

• Unscripted connection. Whether it’s your partner holding the baby for the first time or big brother peeking into the bassinet, these moments are one-of-a-kind.

• No need to leave. You stay put—I come to you, quietly documenting those first hours as they happen.

Things to Consider

• You might feel tired. Let’s be real: you’ve just given birth. If the idea of being in front of a camera right away feels overwhelming, that’s totally okay.

• The space is what it is. We’ll make the lighting and setting work, but it won’t be as polished or styled as a studio setup.

What is a Studio Newborn Session?

Studio sessions typically happen when your baby is 1–3 weeks old. By then, you’ve had a little time to settle in, catch your breath, and start finding your rhythm. In the studio, I gently pose your baby in cozy wraps and soft backdrops, creating dreamy, timeless images that focus on all the little details.

Pros of Studio Newborn Sessions

• Controlled environment. The studio is warm, quiet, and specifically designed for newborns. No distractions—just peaceful baby portraits.

• Classic, artistic images. If you love those soft, sleepy, curled-up baby photos, this is where the magic happens.

• A little more time. Studio sessions give you a chance to rest, prep, and show up when you’re ready.

Things to Consider

• You’ll need to travel. Getting out the door with a brand new baby can be a challenge (I promise, I get it), but I’ll do everything I can to make it easy and stress-free.

• Less documentary. Studio sessions are gently posed and styled, so they may not capture the spontaneous moments that a Fresh 48 session offers.

So, which session is right for you?

There’s no wrong choice—just what feels best for your story.

If you want to capture the brand-newness of your baby, the hospital wristbands, the tiny cries, the first yawns—a Fresh 48 might be perfect. It’s all about emotion, connection, and storytelling.

If you’re dreaming of soft, styled portraits in a peaceful setting—a Studio Newborn session might be more your style. It’s calm, clean, and all about the beauty of your baby’s details.

Can’t decide? You’re not alone. Many families choose to do both—starting with a Fresh 48 to document the first hours, then following up with a studio session once everyone’s had time to rest.

Still unsure? Let’s chat.

If you’re not quite sure which direction to go, I’m here to help you figure it out. Every baby, every family, and every story is different—and that’s exactly why I do what I do.

Whether we meet at the hospital or welcome you into the studio, I promise you’ll walk away with photos that bring you back to this chapter every time you look at them.

Because these moments? They go by in a blink. And they deserve to be remembered.