If you're a new parent looking to book a newborn session in the next few months, you're probably wondering what the difference is between a Fresh 48 and an in-home lifestyle newborn session. I have had Seattle area families ask this question before and so this post should cover most of your big questions and how you can choose the right photo session for your family.
what is a fresh 48 Session?
A Fresh 48 session happens a few hours after the birth of your new baby, either at a hospital, birth center or at your home. The 48 stands for "48 hours" and the "fresh", well that means you have a fresh newborn baby. This is mainly documentary style photography with very little posing and minimal (or any) prep.
What is a newborn session?
A newborn session can take place anywhere from a few weeks to a few months after a mom has had her baby. I also call these sessions "lifestyle newborn sessions" because they take place at your home and fit in with how you live your daily life with a newborn. There is some element of posing mixed in with documentary style photography.
main difference between fresh 48 and newborn sessions
Fresh 48
- Location can be at the hospital, birth center or your home (if that's where you've chosen to birth your baby).
- Less is more. There is little to no preparation as far as outfits, looks or scenery goes. We might suggest you bring a newborn outfit but a swaddle is enough for your newborn.
- Dates for these sessions cannot be pre-planned. As your newborn photographer, I will stay on call. Families share a due date and a point of contact to let me know it's time for Fresh 48 photos.
- Natural light/ Window light is the main source of light for these photos. Hence, it is highly suggested these photos happen during the day time.
- These photos focus on the small details of the baby during the first 48 hours of their birth. Expect lots of details like shots of their hands, feet, hospital bracelets, birth stats and the room we are in. I also love to photograph interaction between the baby, moms, dads and visiting family and friends during the hour.
Newborn
- Location is typically at the family home. Some families choose to have their newborn photos done outdoors as well.
- There is more preparation in terms of outfits for the baby, siblings and their parents. I send you a guide on what you could choose to wear before your session. As for dressing your baby, here are some more helpful tips.
- Dates and times for a newborn photoshoot is pre-planned and can be anywhere from 2 weeks after the birth to 3 months. Knowing your baby, your body and routine is how you'll know when you're ready for newborn photos at home. Here are some photos of how babies look at a few weeks to a few months old.
- My style of newborn photography typically makes use of the natural light in your home. Should I need to use any external light like an off-camera flash, I am prepared. Window light has worked great so far.
- A newborn photo session focuses on the family's new relationship with the baby. I photography everything from breastfeeding or bottle feeding to changing diapers to moms and dads snuggling the newborn baby. Siblings add an element of fun and sweetness, which I encourage and pets are a great addition to these sessions as well.
Should I choose a fresh 48 or newborn session?
If you've reached this point in the post, I assume you have taken a look at the photos, read the descriptions and gotten a sense of what would work best for you.
To summarize:
- Fresh 48 photo sessions are best for if you want to document the precious few hours with your baby after birth.
- In-home newborn photography sessions are best for documenting your whole family at home once you've settled in a routine with your baby.
meet your Seattle area fresh 48 and newborn photographer
Edlyn G D'Souza is the friendly face behind Seattle maternity, Fresh 48 and newborn photography business. She lives in Everett WA and specializes in lifestyle family photography. Edlyn works with families in Seattle, Everett, Bothell, Mukilteo, Mill Creek, Lynnwood and most surrounding areas. She brings a calm and curious nature to every photo session. (Please inquire here if you'd like me to travel to your area.)
