Atlanta Newborn Photographer | Lincoln

I first worked with Millini and Cedric for their studio maternity session, which can be viewed by clicking here. 

Lincoln was born at DeKalb Medical Center at exactly 42 weeks by family centered cesarean section attended by Dr. Brad Bootstaylor and the SeeBaby midwives. I know this because I was there in the OR to document the entire beautiful experience. His mama was such a trouper and they were so proud to bring him into the studio for his newborn session! 

Because Lincoln was two weeks overdue, much of the skin protecting vernix was gone when he was born. Babies who are born later tend to lose most of their vernix in utero, and tend to peel more after birth. Lincoln was one of those babies. Millini loved his peeling skin because it told a part of his story, and asked that I not completely edit it out. She also wanted to be sure to document his umbilical cord stump as it is the last physical connection between her son and herself. Not everyone likes a photo of the umbilical stump, and that's totally ok! We will talk about your preferences when you arrive for your newborn session if it has not yet fallen off. 

Millini chose a simple white gown from the wardrobe and worked with Margaret to add on makeup services. Cedric wanted to be more casual in a simple white v-neck tee with jeans. Every family is different, and I send a newborn preparation packet with wardrobe suggestions for dad based on his personality and comfort level. I've had dads be most comfortable in a button down with a sport jacket, and others in a simple tee. The most important thing to me is that you feel comfortable and love the way you look and feel. That will translate to your final images. 

Here are some of my favorite images from this long awaited baby boy's newborn session. 

If you're pregnant and looking for a newborn or maternity photographer here in Atlanta, 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. 

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

Atlanta Newborn Photographer | Reagan, 10 days new

Rosanna contacted me for a Fresh 48 session and a newborn session after she was referred to me by another client. She came to a studio open house to meet me and see the studio. 

When Reagan was born at home attended by Birth By Grace Midwifery, Adam and Rosanna let me know and I traveled to photograph her Fresh 48. I met several extended family members and it was just a fun family to be around. Before I left, we scheduled her newborn session to take place at 10 days of age. I like to schedule between 8-16 days of age, but often have newborns that are as old as a month! The older the baby, the bigger and less curly they tend to be. Reagan was perfect, and her mom let me know she wanted her to wear some tiebacks for her session. I have a wide array of dainty and neutral tiebacks available for my newborn girls, and use them based on client preference! Some babies startle more easily, but Reagan slept deeply for her session and was such a sweetie! 

While I love photographing babies and all their sweet details, my favorite part of newborn sessions is when baby is in the arms of their parents... exactly where they belong. It's impossible to do anything "wrong" during this portion of the newborn session and many of the photos that I I take are of you and your partner doing the things that you would normally do at home... admiring your baby, loving your baby, snuggling your baby. The difference is that your hair and makeup are done, you don't have a burp cloth over your shoulder, and the lighting is perfect. 

If you're pregnant and looking for a newborn or maternity photographer here in Atlanta, 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 Newborn Photographer | Baby Emma

I first met Yetsie and Roger when they came in for a studio maternity session, which can be viewed by clicking here. They chose to reserve a newborn session also, and I was so excited to hear that sweet baby Emma had arrived safely! Yetsie chose to work with Margaret again and added on hair and makeup services. The family arrived at the studio with Grandma in tow, and I started working with Emma for her solo portraits while Yetsie slipped into the hair and makeup chair. Yetsie already knew exactly which dress she wanted to wear from the studio wardrobe as she had tried it on during her maternity fitting. Most of my clients have a pretty good idea of what they'll want to wear for their newborn sessions since they've already seen the wardrobe! 

Emma looks SO much like her mama, and was a sleeping angel during her session. She was one of my easiest babies that I've had in the studio, and it was evident that they had followed the instructions that I provide in my newborn preparation packet. 

After I finished with Emma's solo portraits, we moved on to the family images, and Emma decided to wake up. She was so cute with her eyes wide open and perfectly happy to be held by her mom and dad. We all laughed about how alert she was and how she kept looking right at the camera and making funny faces. She was the sweetest little thing, and I loved working with this family again. I can't wait to see her in the studio again for her First Birthday celebration! 

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 Newborn Photographer | Raquel

Leslie inquired about a newborn session in her third trimester, booked, and then attended a studio Open House with her own mom so that she could meet me and see the studio. I love meeting my clients in advance and welcome them to make an appointment if they don't have the opportunity to attend an Open House. We talked about how the session would flow, and about what her husband and stepson should wear. The whole family prefers to be casual, which is never a problem! I gave her ideas for colors and pieces that everyone could wear. She told me that her stepson was incredibly excited to be a part of the session as well, and that Hector, her husband wasn't much for having his photos taken. 

On the day of their session, the family arrived in my studio along with Hector's mom. Leslie requested that no tiebacks be used and that we keep it very simple with more focus on family images than solo portraits. That's never a problem to do when a client requests this. Otherwise, the final gallery is a 50/50 between baby alone and baby with parents and family. The family wanted to include Grandma in some of the images, and I was more than happy to do this. 

I started with Raquel's images, which I finished quickly since she was sleeping so soundly. Then I moved on to sibling shots with proud big brother. He is just the SWEETEST. I loved watching him with his baby sister! (Leslie surprised him by ordering a matted print of his favorite image for his bedroom at home) 

We then moved to images with Leslie and the children, and then gathered everyone together. Even though Leslie had warned me that Hector didn't enjoy having his photo taken, he seemed to have a pretty good time! Sessions in my studio are always relaxed and not rushed. I never want anyone to feel stressed or that we're in a hurry - because we are not. When everyone is relaxed and enjoying themselves, the session flies by that much faster! LOVED working with this family, and cannot wait to see them 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 Newborn Photographer | Baby A, 12 days new

Kristel contacted me in her third trimester to schedule a newborn session for her baby girl, and I was happy to add her to the schedule. When Kristel and her husband John arrived at the studio, I squealed at Little Miss A's fluffy strawberry blonde hair. Kristel's mom also tagged along for the session and when I asked if she wanted to step in for some images, she waved me off and told me that she didn't have anything to wear. I pointed at the studio wardrobe and said, "Ah, but you do!" I pulled a lace sheath dress for her that was very similar to the cut of the dress she was wearing and it was a perfect fit. Problem solved!  I will absolutely never tell a client that a grandparent cannot be involved with their newborn session. Grandparents are so important, and if you want images of them with your tiny newborn, I am more than happy to accommodate. If you don't want the grandparents to be present for the entire session, we can arrange to have them stop in at the very end. 

How adorable is she? I loved working with this family, and can't wait to see them again when she's older! 

If you're pregnant and looking for a newborn or maternity photographer here in Atlanta, 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. You can also sign up for my studio open house this month on Sunday, September 25th from 2-5 PM. 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 Newborn Photographer | Camille, 1 month old

"My baby is too old for a newborn session, they're already three weeks." What if I told you that I have three week olds ALL the time... and have even photographed a one month old? Camile is the second baby girl for Crystal and Philip. I photographed big sister Graces' Fresh 48 session and then Camile's! Philip was out of the country for work, and had very limited availability. On the day of their original session (scheduled for three weeks), Philip was sick so we rescheduled to a week later at exactly one month old. I sent along the preparation packet to Crystal and told her that with a bit of patience, we would make it work.

And boy, oh boy, did it work. 

When Camile arrived at the studio, she was sound asleep, so we started with sleeping images. Amazingly enough, she opened her eyes and I started talking to her... and she made eye contact with me and smiled. I thought to myself "This has to be a fluke." But no. She did it again. And again. I was ready with my camera and captured her sweet little baby grin. When I came out, I mentioned to Crystal that I was super lucky to be getting all these random eye contact smiles and she said, "Oh no, she does that all the time at home too." As a disclaimer: MOST newborns are not smiling until 6-8 weeks of age. I don't want clients to think that if they wait until their baby is one month old, they'll smile for their newborn images!  After she fell back to sleep, I finished up her solo portraits and moved on to sibling images.

Sibling images with toddlers are truly a tossup. Sometimes a toddler doesn't like the way a rug feels, which was the case with Grace. I placed them on the bed instead with mom and dad close by, and we made it work. Parents are always concerned about whether their toddler will cooperate. While I cannot make any guarantees, I can assure you that I am a mom of three children myself and understand how toddlers work and think. I have a whole bag of tricks and will do my very best to capture an image of your children together. If that just doesn't happen, we'll default to family images instead and I'll sneak up for a close shot of your older child interacting with their new baby brother or sister. The most important component is to remain relaxed and not to stress. Everything else will work itself out, promise. 

Isn't Camile the sweetest little baby girl?!

If you're pregnant and looking for a newborn or maternity photographer here in Atlanta, 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 Newborn Photographer | Oona, 12 days new

   If you're new to the website, this week is a throwback to one of my favorite families! I thought it would be fun to show the progression from maternity through the first year with one client. You can view Irene & Steve's maternity session by clicking here.

   When Irene and Steve let me know that their little girl Oona had arrived so we could schedule their newborn session, I was so excited to see them and meet her! She was every bit as cute as I imagined she would be and had the poutiest little lips and the longest fingers. Steve and Irene brought her to the studio and Irene chose a dress from the studio wardrobe.

   I started working with just Oona, and was lucky enough to catch a cute little baby sneeze and her studying gaze. She was such a big baby and so long, and also preferred to stretch out rather than be bundled up. I always let babies lead the way when it comes to their images, so I photographed Oona as she was most comfortable. I love all the tiny details of brand new babies... their lips, fingers, toes, and eyelashes. I always marvel at how perfectly made every baby is! I will never force one of my newborns into a contorted position - all of my images of babies curled up are because that particular baby preferred to be wrapped in that manner and felt more secure that way. Every baby is different! 

  After I wrapped up Oona's portraits, we moved on to parent images which I absolutely love. Parent images are always included in my newborn sessions, and are such an important part of them. I want your baby to see how much you were in awe of them in those early days and how much you loved them from the very beginning. Some parents need some extra help with guided natural interaction, but Steve and Irene did not. They snuggled together and loved on their little girl. 

Next up on the blog will be Oona's 6 month session, so check back in a couple of days to see how much she grew between this session and 6 months! 

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. 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 Newborn Photographer | Baby Henry

I last worked with Katharine and Howard for their winter maternity session at the park location which you can view by clicking here. I was so excited to hear that Henry had arrived, and we scheduled his newborn session to take place two weeks later.  Katharine chose to add on hair and makeup services and worked with Megan. 

When they arrived, Henry was sound asleep in his car seat. Katharine and I looked through the studio wardrobe, and she chose a beautiful champagne pink dress. I began working with Henry for his solo portraits while Howard relaxed on the couch and Katharine was being pampered by Megan. Henry was the cutest little squish and so easy going. I loved photographing all of his little details, and was amazed at how he curled up in my lap while I was wrapping him. I never force babies into poses, and tend to wrap them as they naturally fold. He was definitely one of my easiest babies in the history of the studio. 

After I finished with Henry's solo portraits we moved on parent and family images. Katharine is so in love with Howard and her son, and was just radiant and beaming. Howard is such a sweet guy, and he's a great dad. I was pretty sure he would be a doting father when I first met him, and I was right. I loved watching this new little family of three together in the studio, and was so happy to get to be a small part of their passage to parenthood. It's an honor to be chosen as the photographer for each family, and it's one that I don't take lightly.

Here are some of my favorite images of sweet Henry and his loving parents! 

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. You can hear about my philosophy and see how I work in the studio by watching this video 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 Newborn Photographer | Isabella

I first worked with Clarissa for her maternity session in the studio, which can be viewed here. She had already booked a newborn session with a photographer before she had found me for her maternity session. Because she'd already reserved her session with that photographer, she went ahead with it.

I heard from Clarissa after she viewed the images from her initial newborn session with that photographer. She was unhappy with her experience and felt that her daughter didn't look like her daughter. I asked what she meant, and she stated that her baby's skin looked fake and that she didn't even recognize her when she saw the gallery. The photographer she worked with also did not prioritize mother and baby images as Clarissa had requested, and only took one photo of them together. Clarissa wanted a do-over, and she wanted it to be with me. So, a few days later, she brought sweet little Isabella all the way from Hampton, Georgia for her newborn session.

Isabella had the thickest head of hair on a baby that I have ever seen! So many curls and such gorgeous creamy skin. And those perfect little lips! She was such a sweet little sleeper, and I had so much fun photographing her.  After her solo images, we moved on to the most important ones... Isabella in the arms of her mother. Moms, these images are going to mean so much to you when your children head out the door for college. They're going to mean so much to your children who will look at them and SEE how much you loved them and how you looked at them when they were tiny. They're going to be images that your children will always have of you expressing your love for them even when you're not here anymore. They're so important. 

Clarissa loved her images, and emailed me to tell me that I had given her what she had envisioned in the first place. All she wanted were natural images that showed off how beautiful her baby was, and that showed the relationship and unique bond they shared. I can't wait to see them again in April for a family session in the park, and then again this summer when Miss Isabella turns ONEI 

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 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 Newborn Photographer | Penelope, 26 days new

Danielle contacted me to see if she could schedule a newborn session, but was a little bit concerned because her daughter was already three weeks old. I explained to her that this wasn't an issue at all, and that we could definitely make it work! She was so excited that I had last minute availability in my calendar and showed up a couple of days later with her sweet little girl, Penelope. Proud daddy came along for the session too! 

Penelope was over 9 pounds at the time of her session, so she wasn't quite as flexible as a smaller baby is likely to be. She loved being wrapped up like a burrito and slept soundly throughout. Your baby's comfort and safety is my primary concern, so if they don't like being in a certain position or don't easily curl up, I am not going to force it. Most babies resist change, but there's a big difference between a squawk of protest and some squirming versus screaming and flailing. I aim to soothe your baby and work with them so it doesn't ever get to that point. Being a newborn photographer who photographs multiple newborns every week definitely requires lots of patience...good thing I have a pretty big supply of it, and I really love what I do! 

After Penelope's solo portraits, we moved on to parent images. Danielle and Nick were just the sweetest, and had such a great sense of humor in their dynamic. They weren't afraid to laugh and make fun of each other, but did so in a very caring and affectionate manner. Nick had quite an interesting childhood growing up in England, and they both had been all over the world. It was lots of fun chatting about their adventures and what led them to where they were today. 

The images during this session, especially of their new little family together, are some of my favorite images ever. Capturing brand new families just as they are, sharing quiet and tender moments together that are REAL and not staged... that's what I'm all about. 

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 Newborn Photographer | Baby Robert

I first worked with Kea, Bob, and Blythe for their family maternity session in the field, which can be viewed by clicking here.  Like myself, they had waited to find out if they were having a boy or a girl until birth - and I was so excited to get an email from Kea informing me that they'd had baby boy named Robert after daddy! My son is named after his daddy also, so I just love that.

When the family arrived at the studio, they brought along Grandma to help with Blythe. When a toddler participates in a newborn session, we always encourage families to bring along a helper if possible. It makes it more relaxing for mom and dad, and that way big brother or sister gets to have some fun too!  The studio is located right down the street from Zoo Atlanta, and some families plan for their older children to head off to explore the Zoo when their part in the session is finished. Grant Park is also located right down the street and has a playground that children enjoy as well. 

Kea had added on hair and makeup services with Margaret at her maternity session, and elected to do so again for the newborn session. She settled into the makeup chair, and I got to work. 

Since Robert was in such deep sleep when he arrived, we started with some solo images, and when he began waking up, moved to sibling and dad images. By the time I was finished with these, Kea was ready to go. We took some of the sweetest images of Kea with her children. She brought her own clothing from home and told me that the newborn preparation guide was perfect in helping her determine what to bring from their closets. When we finished with the family images, big sister Blythe left with Grandma to head home. Kea and Bob chose to change into some more casual outfits, and we finished up the session with Robert and his parents only. They're just the sweetest family!

When Kea came in for her ordering session, she came with her mom. She ordered a gorgeous linen album, and we had fun designing it from the proof prints. Album design involves us spreading out all the proofs on the floor and deciding which edit version (color or black and white) of each image would go best in the album. Most clients leave me to the album design, but I include up to two proof revisions if any changes are requested. I can't wait to see Robert for his First Birthday session in a few months! 

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 Newborn Photographer | Baby Whit

When Nicole contacted me last March to inquire about a newborn session for her baby boy due in September, I was impressed with her advance planning! She didn't absolutely love her wedding photos, and was on the hunt for the perfect photographer for her baby's first portraits. My natural light style and natural posing with a focus on emotional connection is what drew her to my work, and she reserved her spot on my calendar right away. Booking in the second trimester is a great way to ensure my availability. While we always try to accommodate last minute requests, we simply just can't say yes to everyone. 

When Nicole and Jay brought sweet baby Whit to the studio, I just fell in love! Not only were Nicole and Jay the sweetest couple (they're high school sweethearts!), they were just so in love with their new son. He was absolutely precious and such a little sweetheart. He even gave me a couple of grins during my time with him.

After I finished with Whit's portraits, Nicole chose a dress to wear from the studio wardrobe, and we started the family session. As you'll, see there is quite a height difference between Nicole and Jay. I will never ask a husband to minimize his height by slouching down or bending their knees to make themselves closer to their wife's height. I have so many couples with large height differences, and I'll get up on a ladder and use other techniques. Just as your baby has unique characteristics, so do you and your husband. If you have a height difference - you're already aware of it and comfortable with it! The last thing you need is a photographer that treats that difference like it's a problem or a detriment to your images and makes you feel self conscious about it.

When Nicole viewed her images, she told me, "These are beyond what I imagined them to be! So so perfect!". That's what I always love to hear from my clients!  

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 Newborn Photographer | Baby Sophia, 10 days new

Martina contacted me a couple of months before baby Sophia was due, letting me know that she wanted to schedule a newborn session. We scheduled her on the calendar tentatively since Sophia had a scheduled birthdate. Babies sometimes arrive earlier than their scheduled c-section or induction, so any dates we place on the calendar for a client are not set in stone. We'll adjust them if necessary! 

When the family arrived at the studio for their newborn session, they brought along Grandma and Grandpa who were visiting from their home country of Germany. It was pretty neat to hear German being spoken in the studio. We've had so many clients from all over the world in the last year: Australia, England, France, China, Malaysia, Korea, Nigeria, and now Germany. I wonder what other countries clients will be from this year?! Big sister Celina and dad Felix were also on hand. The family chose to dress Celina in one of the studio dresses for little girls, and Martina chose a champagne pink dress for herself. We started with the family images first so that Celina wouldn't have to be cooped up in the studio for the entire session. Celina was not interested in holding her sister or being next to her. This is absolutely normal for toddlers! I will not force a child to do something they don't want to do, so we just work around your child's comfort level. Your baby's safety is my paramount consideration. Placing a toddler who doesn't want to participate next to a baby is a recipe for injury, so I simply won't do that. In Celina's case she preferred to interact with her baby sister while being held by her daddy. My goal is for children to feel safe and secure during their sessions in the studio, and often that's in the arms of a parent. Sometimes a child will warm up to me later and be willing to take some solo images with baby, but sometimes not. 

When Celina was finished with her part, her grandparents took her down the street to play at a playground. Siblings coming to sessions are always welcomed! If it is possible for the family to do so, we usually arrange for siblings to arrive later after the baby's solo portraits have been finished. Sometimes that just isn't doable for families, so we work around what can be managed and is easiest for families! 

After Celina departed, we finished up with parent images. Martina and Felix were so sweet to each other, loving and enjoying each other and their new daughter. Sophia fell into a very deep sleep during this part of the session so when we finished, I quickly wrapped her back up and took some more baby only portrait images (the last images you see in this post on the rug) in the newborn shooting room. 

*this session was photographed before the installation of the new white studio flooring

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 Fresh 48 Photographer | Camille, 12 hours old at Northside Hospital

When Crystal emailed me to tell me that she was expecting her second baby and wanted to book a Fresh 48 and newborn session, I was so excited! I had worked with Crystal for her maternity and Fresh 48 sessions with their first child and loved working with their sweet family. She elected not to do a maternity session this time around since she was so close to her due date when she contacted me. 

Crystal let me know that she was scheduled for an induction so that I would have the heads up on scheduling their session. Well, little Miss Camille had other plans and decided to start the process the day of her induction. :) Beat them to the punch! Crystal let me know that Camille had arrived, and I was able to schedule their session to take place before she was even 12 hours old. I arrived and started photographing Camille and her mommy. Phillip (dad) arrived with big sister Grace and it was so sweet to see Grace meeting her new baby sister and talking to her. Many families schedule Fresh 48's so that they can document their older child meeting their new sibling. I did the same thing with my children, and I can state from personal experience that it's so nice to let a professional document the meeting so you can soak those precious moments in without missing things by being behind an iPhone or your own camera. Live in the moments that will never happen again and be fully present for them! That's what I'm here for. 

You can see some images from big sister Grace's Fresh 48 session by clicking here. It's so neat to see both girls and see how different and unique they looked. I am sure they will be the closest and best of friends as they grow up. My two older daughters have an age difference of 22.5 months and they are inseparable. They love each other just as fiercely as they sometimes fight. 

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 Newborn Photographer | Harper

I had last seen Candace and Brandin at their studio maternity session with me, which can be viewed by clicking here. I was so excited to hear that they had welcomed a little GIRL! They waited to find out if they were having a boy or a girl until birth, and since I did that with all three of my children, I always love getting to find out after their maternity session and see the excitement (and sometimes disbelief!). 

When they came in for their newborn session, I (quietly!) squealed a little bit. Baby Harper was a tiny little peanut just under six pounds. She was an adorable tiny little peanut, and she slept like a champ. Candace and Brandin were just so sweet with her, and I loved seeing them as a brand new little family of three. 

Candace elected to have Harper in some tiebacks for a portion of the session. I will never put a tieback on a baby's head that is not proportionate to them. There are no giant flower headbands the size of Texas here. All of my tiebacks are small, sweet, and dainty. It is ALWAYS up to mom whether or not they are used! Some mamas prefer that no tiebacks be used at all, and that's totally okay. Others like a mix, and others want one for every image. I'll work within your specific preferences!

We sailed through Harper's solo images and then started the parent and family images portion. Candace brought a taupe dress from home, and also chose a white lace dress from the studio wardrobe that caught her eye. 

Isn't this family the cutest?! I love how in love Candace and Brandin are with each other and their new daughter. Images that capture that are my absolutely favorite and the ones that will be the most important in the future. 

*As a note, this session was shot before the new white studio flooring was installed. 

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 Newborn Photographer | Baby Logan

I last saw Adrienne & Dave at their studio maternity session, which can be viewed here. I was so excited to find out that they had welcomed a little BOY! They waited to find out what they were having until birth, and because I did the same with my own three children I always just love the guessing and wondering, and then finding out from the elated parents. 

When Adrienne had tried on dresses for her maternity session fitting, she tried on a short lace one that she loved. She didn't think it was the right fit for her maternity session, but told me to remember it because she was pretty sure she would want to wear it for her newborn session. So many clients find their newborn session clothing while they're trying pieces on for maternity! 

She had also worked with Margaret to add on hair and makeup services, and worked with her again for her newborn session. 

When Dave, Adrienne, and baby Logan arrived at the studio, Adrienne got into the makeup chair, and I took Logan into the newborn shooting room. He had some of the longest eyelashes I have ever seen on a newborn, and Adrienne had specifically requested that I capture those for her. He was such a good little sleeper so that proved quite easy! I always love capturing the tiny little details of newborns such as their nose, toes, lips, belly button, eyelashes, hair swirls, etc. I always talk to my clients about if there are any special features they want captured. When I was finished with Logan's solo portraits, Adrienne was almost finished with her hair and makeup. I kept working and shot daddy and son images with Dave and Logan, and Adrienne joined in for family images. My sessions do have a general flow that I loosely follow, but they're always adaptable and tailored to each unique baby and family. Sometimes babies have a harder time settling, so we'll switch it up a little and focus on parent images first until they're sleepy. Whatever the case may be, the top priority is the comfort of your baby and family. No stress is allowed at the studio! Newborn sessions are time for you to come and relax and enjoy each other as a brand new family.

These are just a few of my favorite images from Logan's session. I wish I could share them all! As a note, this session took place in October in our studio before our new white flooring was installed. 

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 Newborn Photographer | Everett

Jessica and Daniel worked with me for their field maternity session, which you can see by clicking here. I actually was able to meet baby Everett the day after he was born! I was at Northside Hospital shooting a Fresh 48 session for a client, and Jessica had texted me to let me know that Everett had arrived. I responded that I was actually in the hospital with another client, and that I'd love to stop by and say hi if they were up for a quick visit. She responded that they'd love that so I dropped in for a quick 5 minute visit and got to see their handsome baby boy. 

The day of their newborn session at the studio, Everett was wide awake and very interested in his surroundings. I love when babies are awake since it allows me to capture some of their funny newborn expressions so parents always remember what they looked like. I wrapped him snugly, and employed some of my newborn photographer tricks to get him to fall asleep, and within 15 minutes he was fast asleep. Parent and family images were most important to Jessica and Daniel, so we focused more on that for their session. Daniel borrowed another shirt from the wardrobe, and Jessica opted to wear her own clothing from home as she wanted a more casual and comfortable look with a simple sleeveless blush top and jeans.

I seriously love this little family so much and am so glad to know them! All of my clients are important to me, and I love getting to know them on a personal level, and being trusted to capture some of the most special times in their lives. It's a huge honor, and one that I don't take lightly. 

When Jessica and Daniel viewed their images, they knew right away that they wanted a professionally printed album, so they chose a collection that included one. Digital files are a non factor in client decision making because all of my collections come with all of the high resolution edited digital files in the gallery.  Many clients decide that they want to display their images in their home, so they choose a collection that includes a wall gallery or an album. There is a collection for every need!

Jessica and Daniel came into the studio to help design their album, which was a lot of fun. First, they chose their favorite linen for the cover, and then we spread out the proofs all over the floor of the studio. They chose their top favorites they wanted in their album, and decided on a mix of both color and black and white images. I designed the album with their input, and then sent them the proof. They requested a couple of changes since they decided they liked the color version of a couple of images better in the album flow. I revised the proof and they approved it, and the album was ordered. I loved their album so much that I have one as a sample in the studio. I don't believe clients should have to invest in something sight unseen, so all the products are available for clients to see for themselves. 

Here is a little sampling of some of my favorite images from their session! This session was shot in the studio before our new white flooring was installed, so the flooring is no longer dark hardwood. Other than this change, the studio is the same. 

Black and white image of an Asian woman laying on a bed with her newborn son in front of her, taken at the natural light studio of Lily Sophia Photography.

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 Newborn Photography | Baby Addison

Nicole contacted me in October to see if I had any availability for a newborn session in November. I was able to fit them in, and she elected to add on hair and makeup services as well. 

The day of Addison's session, Nicole walked into the studio wearing a sweatshirt, yoga pants, and her hair in a bun. She also brought her grandmother along since her husband was at work and could not come for the entire time. Nicole chose a gorgeous dress from the studio wardrobe and settled into the hair and makeup chair. Margaret started working her beauty magic with Nicole, and I took baby Addison into the newborn shooting room for her solo portraits. Addison was such a cute little thing and slept pretty soundly during her time with me. She needed to nurse a few times, so I brought her to her mommy to nurse while she was having her hair and makeup done. We have a couple of nursing pillows in the studio available for client use (they're washed in between sessions) and they fit perfectly on laps in the makeup chair! Our HMUA team is very supportive of nursing and will continue working while you nurse your little one. 

As I was finishing up with Addison's solo images, her daddy, Chris arrived. We started shooting daddy-daughter images and then when Nicole was finished, she stepped in for the family images. Chris had to head back to work so he bade us all goodbye, and we finished up with images of Addison and Nicole together.  Every family I work with has their own unique needs, and I'll work with each client to accommodate them as needed when it comes to the session flow. I completely understand that many daddies just don't get paternity leave, so we can structure your session to enable him to stop in during his lunch break! 

Here are just a few of my favorite images from Addison's newborn session! 

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 Newborn Photographer | William, 17 days new

When Joanna contacted me, she was pretty sure her son was too old for a newborn session. This is such a common misconception and it really makes me sad that so many parents want newborn sessions but hear this information and give up on finding someone. I'm here to tell you that your baby does NOT have to be between 5-10 days old for a newborn session in my studio. As a matter of fact, I'll shoot up to 30 days of age, but I always make sure that my clients know what realistic expectations are for their session. The older the baby, the "stiffer" they tend to be in terms of how curled up they'll be. If I have a much older baby that doesn't want to curl up, I'll simply put them into a position that is comfortable for them. We are all about letting your baby lead the way during sessions so they feel safe and comfortable.

Joanna also decided to use our HMUA add on services, and worked with Margaret for her makeup. Clients have the option of just makeup, or both hair and makeup! Margaret used shimmer powders for Joanna's gorgeous eyes and she looked absolutely beautiful! She said she was so glad to have an hour to relax and have her makeup done while I worked with William and that she was amazed at how Margaret was able to make her look NOT tired. That's the most common remark that we hear after clients look in the mirror... our HMUA artists definitely have their bag full of tricks to making new mamas feel cared for and look well rested.

This family was such a sweet family, and I loved working with them. William was such a stretchy little baby... he stretched himself into natural poses, and I captured those. Not every baby does well being left to stretch as some have startle reflex if they're not in deep sleep, so I tend to swaddle those babies to keep them comfortable until they're sleeping deeply enough to not startle. Nobody likes to wake themselves up by hitting themselves in the face!

Here are some of my favorite images from William's newborn session. Isn't he just the cutest little guy?  

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If you're pregnant and looking for a newborn or maternity photographer here in Atlanta, 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.