Atlanta Family Photographer | A late summer park session

Abby contacted us to schedule an outdoor family session for the spring. Unfortunately, Atlanta went through a crazy cold snap during the week of their planned time with me and we mutually determined that the weather wouldn't work well. When babies are cold they are usually grumpy and uncomfortable, which doesn't make for the best images! A lot of things happened with Abby's family and personal life during the following months but we eventually were able to meet up in late August at the park location. 

It was definitely worth the wait! Abby chose outfits for the entire family based on clothing recommendations that I sent over, and everyone looked fabulous. We started the session by playing and exploring, and were lucky to have a very mild evening as far as temperature and humidity. The sun was also gorgeous that evening, and we had such a good time.

Family sessions are photographed year round, but the most popular times are in the fall and spring. As a note, outdoor sessions always begin one hour before sunset with no exceptions. If you're in love with the outdoor images you see here, that's wonderful! Every single outdoor session you see started one hour before sunset. It is known as the "golden hour" and the gorgeous light cannot be replicated any other time of day except the hour before sunrise....and even then, it doesn't have the same richness that sunset light does. 

 If you have a child who needs to be in bed at a certain hour and will be unable to function even with a late nap and a full belly, choose the best time of year for that. If you're interested in booking a family session, it's recommended to get on the calendar as soon as you have a date timeframe in mind. We fill up quickly, and already have quite a few sessions on the books for spring 2018.

If you're expecting a baby or already a parent and looking for a newborn, maternity, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Watch this video to hear about my philosophy and see how I work in the studio so you can determine if I'm the right fit for you. I can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Baby Photographer | Lincoln & Mommy

Millini first worked with me for her studio maternity session when she was pregnant with her son, Lincoln. You can view those images by clicking here. I attended the birth of Lincoln as his birth photographer, and also photographed his newborn session. While I do not share birth images as my client privacy is my highest priority, you can view his newborn session images by clicking here.

Millini had her makeup applied by Megan for her session, and chose outfits or herself and Lincoln based on my recommendations for what to wear that I sent prior to their session. 

Lincoln is such a joy and such a happy little guy! We had so much fun playing peek-a-boo and blowing kisses in the studio. I love how expressive and joyful he is... I think babies with two bottom teeth sticking out are just the cutest things ever! 

If you're expecting a baby or already a parent and looking for a newborn, maternity, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Watch this video to hear about my philosophy and see how I work in the studio so you can determine if I'm the right fit for you. I can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Family Photographer | Haylen is six months!

I first worked with Sindi and Errol for their maternity session in the studio, which can be viewed by clicking here.  I was so excited to hear from Sindi when she emailed asking to schedule her daugher's six month milestone session! I love watching my littlest clients grow. We discussed what the family should wear and I sent over some links to vendors that I recommend as well as an inspirational visual .pdf with ideas. 

Haylen was the happiest little gal! We had so much fun playing peek-a-boo and she giggled with delight each and every time. She was just so giggly and squeezable, and her parents are just in love with her. It is so cute to see a daddy who is wrapped around the little finger of his baby girl. Milestone sessions are focused on your baby, but we include parent and family images too. I think it's so important for children to have images to look back on that show them just how very loved they were. These are the images that they'll reach for time and time again. Someday, you won't be here anymore, but these tangible memories that froze these moments in time will be. There is something so incredibly special and important about giving that to your child. 

Without further ado, here are some of my favorite images from sweet Haylen's six month session! 

If you're expecting a baby or already a parent and looking for a newborn, maternity, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Watch this video to hear about my philosophy and see how I work in the studio so you can determine if I'm the right fit for you. I can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Baby Photographer | Julia is ONE!

I last photographed Julia at her newborn session (click here to view) and was so excited to see her and her sweet family again to celebrate her first birthday!

The family chose to bring along their dog to participate also. I welcome non-shedding dogs to the studio that are small and well behaved.  Snack Pack is an important member of their family too, and one of my favorite dogs on the planet. He's such an easy going boy, and he and Julia are wild about each other.

Her mom, Caroline, had stopped by the studio a few weeks before their session to look at different options from the wardrobe for Julia and herself. In between the time they stopped in and the session took place, I added a dress to the studio wardrobe that I just KNEW Caroline would love. I was right - she fell in love with it the second she saw it and chose to wear it for their session! 

Caroline also brought two of Julia's favorite stuffed loveys to incorporate into the session, and chose a sweet little white dress from the studio wardrobe for her to wear. She also chose one of our tutus but Julia wasn't much of a fan, so that didn't last long. Your child's comfort is my priority, so sometimes it requires flexibility to default to a backup plan. When Julia was presented with her cake, she didn't want to touch it and she hated the high chair. So, we put the cake on the floor and let her approach. She was happiest in the arms of mommy or daddy, so we simply shifted gears and went with what worked for her. Every baby is so different and will react differently. As long as everyone is relaxed and goes with the flow, the resulting images will be perfect and unique to your baby and their personality! 

If you're expecting a baby or already a parent and looking for a newborn, maternity, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Watch this video to hear about my philosophy and see how I work in the studio so you can determine if I'm the right fit for you. I can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Family Photographer | The Tuckers, party of 6

Heather is a local doula and a mother of four adorable and sweet children. As a mother of three (who wishes it was four!) I was thrilled to work with them to plan their session. I love large families and the different personalities and quirks of each child. I love the chaos and the running around and having fun during these sessions. When we discussed what to wear, I suggested that Heather either choose to dress her family in neutral colors or to take color inspiration from a patchwork quilt. I LOVE color, and encourage families to wear colors if that's more true to who they are. It is stressful to coordinate a family of six, and I'll help you every step of the way with styling input! Heather chose the neutral route, and we exchanged a few emails and texts leading up to their session. Many of the clothes they wore were from their own closet, but Heather treated herself to a new tunic (from Old Navy!) to wear. She asked me if it would be okay for her middle daughter to wear her cowboy boots that she loved... my answer was "YES!" I absolutely love when children choose to wear their favorite pair of boots or a favorite dress because it makes the images that much more meaningful to them and to you. 

We met at the field and started our session off with everyone hugging each other and snuggling. As kids lost interest and ran off, we photographed the remaining ones. Family sessions are fast paced because small kids just don't have long attention spans or much patience for dragging things out. Keeping it interesting and fun for them is key, and I'll be working with you every step of the way with suggestions for natural interaction and engagement. Your job is to relax and simply love your children. Everything else will fall perfectly into place! 

We have VERY limited fall sessions remaining, so please contact us soon if you want to grab one of our last dates! 

If you're looking for a family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film to hear about my philosophy and see how I work in the studio so you can determine if I'm the right fit for you. I can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Family Photographer | Gus turns two!

When Ana contacted us to book a family session in the park location, she informed us that they'd never had professional family photos taken. She wanted to book a family session as a gift to her son, who was turning two. This made me emotional because THIS is exactly why family sessions are so important... they are truly a gift to your children who will be able to look at these images displayed in your home and see tangible proof of your family's love for each other. What an incredibly special gift to give. 

She stopped by the studio for a style consultation and we talked about colors that would look great on her and ideas of what she and her husband could wear. She chose one of our Henley shirts that we keep in the studio wardrobe for little boys for her son Gus to wear during the session and set off to Target with a plan in mind for what to choose for herself.

Ana's session was scheduled for February and on the same night that she and her husband were going out for their Valentine's Day date. She decided to add on hair and makeup services with our lead HMUA, Margaret for their family session. I always recommend planning a special date for after your session to get some extra mileage for your hair and makeup investment! Ana loved Margaret's work so much that she emailed Margaret after the session to tell her how much she loved it, and how much her husband loved it as well. We aim to please! 

During their session, we had a lot of fun laughing, tickling, and being silly. Gus is such a sweet little boy with some of the most amazing eyelashes I've ever seen. He was such a joy, and the happiness and love are so evident in their images. Here are a few of my favorites in black and white!

If you're expecting a baby or already a parent and looking for a newborn, maternity, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Watch this video to hear about my philosophy and see how I work in the studio so you can determine if I'm the right fit for you. I can't wait to meet you!

Atlanta Family Photographer | Oona grows!

I've been lucky enough to work with this sweet family since their maternity session when Irene was pregnant with their daughter. I have photographed many sessions for them now, so I'll list them below so you can check them out! 

• Irene & Steve's Field Maternity Session
• Oona's Newborn Session
• Oona's Six Month Field Session
• Oona's 9 Month Studio Session
• Oona's First Birthday Session

Irene and Steve wanted a spring session when Oona was around 18 months old, and we decided to shoot in the park location in May before summertime arrived and it became oppressively hot. I gave them some ideas of what to wear from their own closets, and we met an hour before sunset for lots of running around and having fun. Oona had a late nap that day and a nice big dinner with snacks on hand to keep her happy since it was past her normal bedtime.  I only shoot outdoor sessions one hour before sunset because the dreamy sunset lighting is incomparable to any other time of day. For families who don't want to keep their children up later, I suggest booking a session after daylight savings time when the sun sets much sooner in the evening. Late naps and full bellies are key for those later hour sessions. 

18 month olds are on the GO and they stop for nothing. It's super important for clients to realize that a session with an 18 month old requires lots of patience, willingness to play and run, have a tickle fight, and letting go of the idea that an 18 month old will sit still or be "cooperative". When I say "cooperative" - I mean sitting perfectly still with hands folded and smiling for the camera. That's just not what my sessions are about. If you want to remember your toddler in all their independent glory and feisty personality, and you want to have images that show how much you loved each other as a family and all the fun you had, then we're a great fit! 

Irene & Steve were definitely worried during the session and afterwards that Oona was too challenging and that we didn't get anything. I reassured them that there were plenty of absolutely beautiful images. After they viewed their gallery and came to pick up their print selection and USB with their digital files from the studio, Steve admitted that he was really (pleasantly!) surprised by all of the images since Oona was more interested in exploring her surroundings than anything else. 

Here are a few favorites from our family session at the park! 

If you're expecting a baby or already a parent and looking for a newborn, maternity, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Watch this video to hear about my philosophy and see how I work in the studio so you can determine if I'm the right fit for you. I can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Family & Baby Photographer | A mommy and me session in the park

I was so excited to see Clarissa and her beautiful daughter, Isabella again. I first met Clarissa when I photographed her studio maternity session (click here to see some of those images!), and then met little Isabella when she brought her to the studio for her newborn session (click here to see some of those images!). I'll be seeing them again this coming weekend for Isabella's first birthday portraits complete with some cake smashing fun! I absolutely love watching my tiny clients grow and getting to know their families well over the first year and beyond.  

Prior to the session taking place, Clarissa dropped by the studio to look through the wardrobe and get inspiration for what to wear. She knew she wanted to use her own clothing, but wasn't sure on what she should wear. I offer all outdoor session clients the opportunity to book a styling appointment at the studio in advance of their session with me to go over options from their own wardrobe and see if there are any pieces they might want to borrow for their session. It's also a GREAT way to introduce your children to me in advance if you've booked a family session. 

For Isabella's six month session, Clarissa chose the park location. Clarissa also opted to add on makeup services with Megan for her session as well. When I arrived at the studio, I played with Isabella for a few minutes as Megan was finishing up Clarissa's makeup. Clarissa and Isabella got dressed and we headed down the street to the location! 

My sessions are about the emotional connection, so there are lots of snuggles and cuddles going on. I'll place you where I want you in terms of lighting, give you a few directions for natural interactions with some tips to make sure you don't accidentally give yourself the dreaded faux double chin, and then I step back and let the magic happen. Your children are happiest when they are with you and having fun. So, come relaxed and open to playing and having fun, and the rest will naturally follow. 

Without further ado, here just of few of the images from this session with this gorgeous mother and daughter duo. I can't wait to share images from Isabella's upcoming First Birthday session! 

If you're expecting a baby or already a parent and looking for a newborn, maternity, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Watch this video to hear about my philosophy and see how I work in the studio so you can determine if I'm the right fit for you. I can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Family & Baby Photographer | Gabriella's 3 Month Milestone Session

Genise contacted me to schedule a three month milestone/family session for her daughter Gabriella. Gabriella had spent time in the NICU after her birth, so they weren't able to schedule a newborn session. She really wanted to have family photos with Gabriella as a baby, and I fit what she was looking for in terms of style.

Gabriella was absolutely adorable with big brown eyes and chunky cheeks. The family was lovely and so much fun to work with. It was hard for Gabriella to lie on her tummy and lift her head very far, but we still managed to photograph her alone this way. Not every three month old can hold their head up for a long period of time (or at all!) so I typically photograph them in parent arms and on the floor. It was so sweet to watch her daddy interact with her. I think it's safe to say that she has him wrapped around her little pudgy finger!

I look forward to seeing this family again in the future for more milestone sessions!  Here are some of my favorite images. 

*This session photographed before the installation of the all white studio floors

If you're looking for a family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film to hear about my philosophy and see how I work so you can determine if I'm the right fit for you. I can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, family and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Cake Smash Photographer | Lachlan is ONE!

Kelly and Dustin last worked with me for their newborn session shortly after my own son was born. I was excited to have them come to the studio for Lachlan's first year portraits and cake smash. Kelly and Dustin pulled pieces from their own wardrobe following my styling suggestions, and came to the studio after Lachlan's nap. I always schedule these sessions for after your baby has napped and eaten. A well rested baby with a full tummy is always much happier... I guess I could say the same for adults! 

We started the session with family images. I love starting with family because it establishes a level of trust with your baby. They see that mom and dad are okay with the lady who has the camera, and they relax and show their true personality. Sometimes they're shy at first, and this is totally ok! It can make for some very sweet snuggling images. 

We then moved on to portraits of just Lachlan, and then I set up the paper backdrop for the cake smash. I also have a high chair in the studio for cake smashes, but each parent chooses what they want to do. Parents are assigned to be baby herders if the backdrop is chosen, since most babies will eventually move on from the cake and want to explore the studio. 

Lachlan enjoyed smashing his cake but wasn't too wild about eating it! Not every baby will stuff their mouth with cake and make a huge mess. Every baby is different, and the way they approach their cake smash is unique to them. Some babies just don't care for the taste or sugar or the way the icing feels, and that's ok! The point of First Birthday session is to create portraits of your baby at the age of one, and then to document their authentic reaction to the cake smash experience. 

If you're looking for a baby and family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film to hear about my philosophy and see how I work so you can determine if I'm the right fit for you. I can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, family and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Family Photographer | Arden is 3 months!

I last worked with Claire and Antonio for their field maternity session, which can be viewed by clicking here. I was so excited to hear from them after their sweet little girl, Arden was born, and scheduled them for a three month family session in the studio. 

When they arrived, Claire had brought the cutest little dress for Arden, and Antonio wanted to borrow one of the shirts from the studio wardrobe. Claire loves the studio wardrobe and chose one of the dresses to wear from it. I provide a styling guide and assistance when requested so if you prefer to pull from your own closets, we'll make sure it's cohesive and gorgeous for your session! 

Antonio is such a doting daddy to little Arden, and the whole family was just so cute together! At three months old, some babies can't quite lift their heads up for long periods of time, so we shoot these sessions with baby in the arms of their parent(s). If a parent just wants to document the milestone and doesn't want to be in the images, we'll work around it by shooting from above while on the floor, or have a parent hold their baby and not photograph the parents' face. I strongly encourage parents to participate though! You will love having these images of yourself with your baby when she heads off to college someday. We can't keep them little forever, but at least we can freeze time in a tangible way with portraits. 

If you're looking for a family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film to hear about my philosophy and see how I work so you can determine if I'm the right fit for you. I can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, family and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Family Photographer | Oona is 6 months!

Earlier this week, we featured Oona's newborn session and her parent's maternity session in the field. For Oona's 6 month session, we went back to the field where it all began. Irene chose to borrow a dress and shawl from the studio wardrobe again, and she fell in love with one of the sweet little dresses we keep on hand for baby girls in the studio. 

Sessions in the spring and summer can sometimes be harder for babies since we start in the hour before sunset, and that's typically past the bedtime of most babies. A later nap and a full belly help quite a lot, and most babies are too distracted to remember they're tired until the end of the session.... and then we have some adorable sleepy images. 

Oona is such a happy little girl and her parents dote on her. They're always so much fun to work with and whenever we're together there's a lot of laughing that happens. I love that they chose me as their photographer because they wanted the photographs of their family to focus on the real moments and emotional connection. When Irene told me that was what drew them to me, I know they were my perfect clients. While I will always attempt to create a portrait with everyone looking at the camera, that's not the goal of my sessions. The goal is to create images of you playing with your child and being her mom and dad. The goal is to capture those in between moments of tenderness and sweetness that happen when nobody is looking. Parenting is hard as it is... let's grab hold of those moments that make it all worth it. 

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If you're looking for a baby and family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film to hear about my philosophy and see how I work so you can determine if I'm the right fit for you. I can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, family and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Maternity, Newborn & Family Photographer | Take the stress out of finding something to wear for your portrait session!

Let's talk about the biggest stressor when it comes to portrait sessions.

WHAT DO I WEAR?! 

For expecting mamas, figuring out what to wear for their maternity session can be a super stressful experience. Trying to shop while pregnant in a body that you're not used to (especially if it's your first baby) and dealing with horrid store lighting is no fun. As a matter of fact, it was after receiving a few panicky texts from clients that I decided to start building a studio wardrobe. I'm pretty particular about what joins the wardrobe. You can rest assured that every piece photographs beautifully.  I'm looking for gorgeous flattering neutrals, colors, fabrics, and drapes. The majority of the wardrobe isn't even maternity specific, and is super comfortable to wear. We're always adding to it as we come across gorgeous pieces that we just can't pass up. Maternity clients come into the studio about two weeks before their session. We chat for a bit about what you're looking for, and I take a look at your skin tone. I'll then pull pieces for you to look at, and we'll narrow down choices from that. Then, you simply try them on and check them out. No horrid store lighting in the studio - and a nice full length mirror. I will give you my input as well, as I want to make sure that you're wearing the most flattering options to your skin tone and body shape possible. The below dresses are just a few of the ones we have in our studio collection! 

But, it doesn't stop at maternity. 90% of our newborn mamas choose something from the wardrobe for their maternity sessions. Not knowing what your bust size is going to be if you're planning to nurse, or trying to find something to wear with a brand new baby in the house is stress that you just don't need. Imagine showing up in comfy yoga pants and a sweatshirt and then choosing something from the wardrobe and slipping into the hair and makeup chair. Guess what? You don't have to imagine: that is reality for many of our Lily Sophia Photography newborn mamas every single week. 

But, wait! We're not finished yet. It doesn't stop at newborn sessions either. As babies grow and mamas return to their pre-pregnancy bodies, they're often comfortable in their own clothing. The studio wardrobe is available for family and milestone sessions too! However, if you'd rather pull from your own closets, no need to stress. I'm here to help you pull together a gorgeous and cohesive look that is perfect for your entire family and reflects who you are. I'll work with you by sending over a style guide in the month before your session, and I'll schedule a complimentary appointment in the studio for you to bring over options and we'll mix and match. Planning a session shouldn't be stressful - let me help make this an amazing and relaxed experience...the best you've ever had! 

If you're pregnant and looking for a maternity, newborn, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film to hear about my philosophy and see how I work in the studio so you can determine if I'm the right fit for you. I can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | The Patrick Family

Jason contacted me to schedule a studio maternity session as a surprise for his wife. Yomaira, for a Mother's Day gift. They were expecting their third baby, another little girl! Professional photos were not something they had done before, other than their wedding, and he wanted to go all out. He asked if he could bring her to the studio for her maternity fitting (unbeknownst to her) and surprise her with the session there. 

I loved that he was gifting her with a maternity session and images to have forever of their growing family. I mean, I would personally just be so excited if my husband gifted me a photography session! It's truly a gift that lasts a lifetime and that means so much to me personally. Plus, I have something to show and give to my children as well!

The day they arrived for the maternity fitting, I had expected him to have already told his wife why she was there... but no. They walked in and she asked, "Okay, so why are we here?" I said...."Surprise! Happy Mother's Day!" She was a little bit concerned we were going to shoot the session right then and there without having had the time to do her hair and makeup to her liking, but I assured her the session wasn't until the following week and that she was only here for the fitting. Her older children, Tony and Julie were also along for the ride and they are just the CUTEST and sweetest kids! Julie tried on dresses from the children's wardrobe and found one that she loved. While Yomaira was trying on dresses, Patrick and I chatted about what he and Tony should wear. 

The day of their session, the family arrived, and we began shooting. Family sessions tend to take a little bit longer since we have so many different groupings to do. We shot Yomaira alone, with just her husband, the entire family together, mother and daughter, and mother and son. And I just had to take a few of just the kids lounging on the studio bed while their mother was getting changed. They were just too cute not to! Baby girl is so lucky to be coming into such a close and loving family with the best big siblings ever. I so enjoyed working with the Patrick family, and can't wait to have them back in the studio again in the future! 

If you're pregnant and looking for a newborn or maternity photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film to hear about my philosophy and see how I work in the studio so you can determine if I'm the right fit for you. I can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Baby Photographer | Mommy & Me Sessions Event

The Mother's Day Sessions are now open to the public! We opened booking to our existing clients last week, and are already 50% sold out of our spots. Our booking calendar is now open to everyone and spots are still available on both April 23rd and April 30th.

A few important notes!

1) Sessions are for mothers and their children only. Babies should be at least 8 weeks old, with no upper age limit. If your oldest baby is 12, they're NOT too old!  If you have multiple children, bring them all to participate! There is no limit to the number of your children. We'll talk about if you want individual images with each of your children in your gallery or prefer to have everyone together. If you are a same sex couple, this is for one mom. 

2) Professional makeup application is complimentary! You'll need to arrive 35 minutes BEFORE your scheduled time slot. If you are late, our makeup artist will not be able to accommodate you. If you don't want makeup application, feel free to skip it or ask for very light makeup. Tips are not suggested or expected. 

3) If you're pregnant with an older child, you're welcome to participate. If you're pregnant with your first baby, you'll need to contact us about booking a maternity session instead as this is not designed to be a maternity session. 

4) You can opt to dress casually (jeans and white t-shirt) or dress it up a bit! A What to Wear style guide will be emailed out to you in advance of the session. 

5) 50% is due to book with the remainder due April 9, 2017. You can also opt to pay in full at booking. 

Want to see all the details and book your spot?! Click here. 

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Family Photographer | Ava's sitter session in the gardens

Brittany contacted me several months in advance to get on the calendar for a late fall family/milestone session in the garden location. She wanted a weeknight so her husband wouldn't miss any football games. The gardens are only available on weeknights, so this was the perfect choice for their family. 

The last time I saw little Ava and her parents was at her newborn session when she was an itty bitty twelve days old, which you can see here. I loved working with Brittany and Frank, who are the owners and driving force behind a successful real estate firm here in Atlanta! They are such a sweet family, and little Miss Ava has the biggest blue eyes and the best personality. Frank is not a big fan of having his photo taken, but has decided he likes working with me because I don't make things awkward and actually fun to be around, according to Brittany. That makes me happy to hear, because I work really hard to win dads over! 

I provided styling assistance to Brittany via email with link exchanges of suggestions of what to wear, and we pulled together a comfortable and cute look for everyone that would photograph well in the gardens setting. My studio wardrobe is always available to borrow from, but many families choose to just utilize my styling assistance instead and shop from their own closets or purchase some new clothes to wear. The most important thing is to be comfortable and look like YOU! 

Brittany had worked with Margaret for her hair and makeup services when we had shot Ava's newborn session and she loved the experience with her. We scheduled their family session to take place on Brittany's birthday, so she treated herself to Margaret's services again! 

We met at the gardens on a mild fall evening, and had lots of fun wandering around and exploring. Brittany chose to mat an 11x14 print of one of their session images and place in a 16x20 frame. I have a gorgeous frame line in the studio, and take care of all of that for my clients. It saves you the hassle of getting the print, taking it to a frame shop, picking out a mat and frame, leaving the print, and then driving back to pick it up. Instead, my clients just choose their frame, and it's ready for pickup within 3-4 weeks time and ready to hang right on the wall! 

These are some of my favorite images from this sweet family's session - I just can't get over Ava's big beautiful blue eyes! 

If you're looking for a family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film to hear about my philosophy and see how I work so you can determine if I'm the right fit for you. I can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, family and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Family Photographer | The Cook Family

I had so much fun shooting this family session for the Cook family in December! Liz didn't have time to shop for her family before their session, but I assured her that we could work with things from their closet. Many clients like to purchase special outfits for their family sessions, but it's definitely not necessary! The most important thing is for you to be comfortable in your clothing and for it to reflect who you are as individuals. No one wants to look at a photo from twenty years ago and wonder why on earth they chose to wear what they did. As part of your experience of working with me, I provide complimentary style consultations over email and sometimes in the studio depending on schedules. I'll even send over links of suggestions of where to purchase pieces that fit within your budget. As always, the studio wardrobe is available to clients who are interested in borrowing from it. 

Liz chose to have her hair and makeup done, and I just loved the gorgeous textured braid she chose! When we arrived at the field, I informed the family that it was time to have fun together! So many dads hate having their photos taken because photographers drag out the session longer than it needs to be or expect small children to be perfectly behaved and sit with their hands folded on their laps. That's just not how I operate. Sessions with me are a time to have fun, love each other, and laugh... a lot. I'll give you tips and tricks to best prep for the session, and we'll work with whatever curveballs your threenager lobs our way. All you need to do is be a family, and I'm there to help with simple and easy direction for natural interaction. There is no need to fake moments or connection... the moments you see here are authentic. 

Without further ado, here are some of my favorites from this sweet family's session.  

If you're looking for a family photographer who will document genuine emotion and authentic moments of you together, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film to hear about my philosophy and see how I work in the studio so you can determine if I'm the right fit for you. I can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Family Photographer | Fun family sunset session in the park

    Oh, this family. How I love them!  I was so excited to shoot their family session since I last saw them for their son's newborn session, which can be viewed here. 

    Emily came to the studio for a style consult and fell in love with a floral maxi dress. A lot of clients think that they need to wear a neutral palette, and while this is lovely and beautiful - it's not the right fit for every family. I welcome colors, and work closely with my clients to choose the best colors and setting for the most beautiful results. Color can work well if they are carefully chosen and planned, and that's what I'm here for! I will personally walk you through every step that you need some help with to make sure your images are the best they can be.

   Emily had her hair and makeup done by Margaret, the lead of our HMUA team, and I helped select an outfit from Matt's existing wardrobe. Penelope and Raphael borrowed pieces from my studio wardrobe, and we pulled together a fun and classic look built around Emily's fun floral dress! My biggest rule of thumb is to ALWAYS dress mama first. It's so important that my clients feel beautiful because when they feel beautiful, they shine in their family photos. And we all know that most of you are the ones taking the pictures and not in them with your families. Let's change that, and make sure you look amazing at the same time. 

My family sessions are meant to be fun and relaxed. If we manage a photo where everyone is looking and smiling, that's great, but it's not the ultimate goal of family sessions. What I want for all of my family clients is to have images of real and authentic moments that show love and joyfulness. It means tickling your children and swooping them up into your arms. It means eskimo kisses and bear hugs, and taking some moments to quietly hold your babies tight. It's okay if your toddler is a bit grumpy or isn't into the session. We'll work with it, and there are lots of "tricks" in my bag to help them forget about being grumpy and have fun. All you have to do is be a family, have fun, and love each other. Sound easy? That's because it is!   

PS - I always, always grab my moms and dads for a few photos with just the two of them. Most of the time the last photographs of just them together were taken at their wedding! Your family would not exist without the both of you, so taking some time to celebrate your love is so important too! 

Atlanta Newborn and Maternity Photography | The Studio Wardrobe

Did you know that my studio has an extensive wardrobe that I am always adding to with high end pieces of beautiful clothing? These are some of the most recent additions. Studio pieces range in sizing from 0-16, and are carefully chosen for their beautiful colors, flattering cuts, and gorgeous textures that photograph well. All booked clients are welcome to borrow from the wardrobe, and roughly 90% of clients choose to do so for their maternity, newborn, or family session.

What if you don't want to borrow from the wardrobe but you're not sure what you should wear? No problem! Part of the experience of being one of my clients is having a photographer who truly cares about your entire experience. I will help you shop your own closet or shop for new clothing that will fit your vision and photograph beautifully. I provide you with a style guide and am available to answer any questions you may have. Don't think that you must only wear neutrals or a flowing dress for your session I love color and jeans just as much as the next person! The trick is choosing a flattering and cohesive look for the setting that you're in. What is MOST important is that you feel beautiful and comfortable!  

Let's work together! I'd love to hear from you and begin planning your session. Contact me today to start the conversation. 

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Family Photographer | Fall in the field

Ashley contacted me to book a family session in the field because she loved my natural approach to family and child photography. She didn't want stuffy formal images of her two children and family, and loved the playful and loving images that result from my session. 

We scheduled a consult at my studio in advance of the session and went over clothing options for her family from their own closet. My wardrobe is always open to booked clients, but most of the time families like to use their own clothing for family sessions with my assistance and guidance. The most important goal is for your family to look like who you ARE, with a cohesive look. That's where I come in to help guide you so you aren't overwhelmed and worried about what to wear.

Since their family is more casual, we went that route with choosing outfits and chose varying shades of neutral tops and jeans for the family so they wouldn't meld together in a big blob of the same color. Ashley chose to dress her little boy in the CUTEST shirt - I loved it so much that it's now a part of the studio wardrobe in sizes 12 months through 5T! 

When we met at the field, we immediately got to playing and having fun. A laid back attitude is the best way to approach sessions with small children. High pressure and trying to force a child to "cooperate" often goes nowhere. This is why my sessions are all about fun, games, and play! When you look at your images, you will see natural and authentic responses to you from your children. The looks of love that they give you in return for your attention are as beautiful as it gets. Seriously. I know I want to always remember how my children looked at me like I was the only person that mattered to me. I want to remember how my husband and I looked at each other in the midst of all the craziness and chaos that comes along with being parents. I want to remember the glee on the faces of my children when their daddy tossed them high in the air or made funny faces at them. 

I want you to remember too. 

Here are some of my favorite images from this family session. I can't wait until next year's session with them! 

If you're looking for a family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film to hear about my philosophy and see how I work so you can determine if I'm the right fit for you. I can't wait to meet you!

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, family and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.