Atlanta Newborn Photographer | Baby Theodore

When Jessica called the studio, she told us that time had gotten away from her and she hadn't gotten around to scheduling a newborn session for her son who was already a few days old. We'd had a few babies arrive earlier than their due dates, so we had a last minute opening for her. Jessica was so excited about being able to borrow from the studio wardrobe because shopping was absolutely the last thing she wanted to do. We sent over our newborn preparation guide which helps clients immensely in choosing what to bring for their husband and other session participants (such as older children or grandparents) and in preparing for the morning of the session. It's a short and sweet read - we know you're sleep deprived and don't need a fifty page manual to go through! 

When they arrived at the studio, I handed her an armful of dresses that I knew would fit her. While she was trying them on, I started photographing Theodore. He was such a handsome and sweet little boy. I have three children of my own, and my youngest is a boy. Theodore was so adorable, it made me want to have another little guy! After I finished photographing him, he needed to nurse and snuggle with his mama for a bit before moving on to the parent and family portion. Regardless of how you choose to feed your baby, you're supported in our studio and babies lead the session flow. We'll take as many breaks as needed so that your little one remains comfortable and happy - they're my first priority! 

We then moved into the parent and family portion and I walked Jessica and her husband through everything. The majority of images we create are often things that you're doing at home with your baby anyway. I provide very simple and easy to understand direction to make it beautiful and flattering for photos. Don't worry about what you need to do, because I've got you covered. You won't feel awkward or weird, and you'll have lots of fun snuggling your baby and celebrating your new family! As the family was leaving my studio, they told me how surprised at how relaxing and wonderful the whole experience was for them. Just what I love to hear! We've created a serene environment for new parents and babies, and strive to make sure you're well taken care of from first contact to final image and product delivery. 

I loved seeing what Jessica chose from their proof gallery. She opted to order two large 11x14 prints for their home - one of the images she chose is the second one you'll see! Enjoy a few of my favorites from this woderful newborn 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 Newborn Photographer | Baby Alexandra

Sometimes dads contact us to schedule newborn sessions! Colleen had contacted us for information and then life juggling a full time job and two older children got in the way and she forgot to email us back. A few weeks later, we heard from her husband Jeff, who had been tasked with squaring away their third baby's newborn session. We fortunately had an opening due to one of our December babies arriving in November and scheduled them to come in. Colleen also requested to add on hair and makeup services because she knew it would be nearly impossible to do herself the morning of. 

When Colleen arrived, I took baby Alexandra back to the newborn shooting room, but little miss was uncomfortable and didn't want to settle. I held her and determined that her little tummy was bothering her, so I took her back out to Colleen and asked if she had been having any issues with gas. Colleen let me know that all of her babies had reflux and she suspected that Alexandra did as well. I'm not a doctor, but I work with several newborns every week. Handling babies and reading their body language (are they stiffening up when put on their backs?) has given me a lot of hands on experience. It was clear that Alexandra would not be comfortable enough to proceed at that time, so we stopped shooting and I held her upright in between feedings. Sometimes that's what my job looks like: I hold newborns for as long as I need to in order to get them comfortable. Rushing a session is pointless. While the average newborn sessions takes between 2-2.5 hours this is not a guarantee. Sometimes babies need more time to settle or have special needs that we might not know about until they're here for their session. 

Jeff and the children arrived for their part in the session, and we moved to sibling family images right away because Jeff needed to get back to the office. Colleen warned me that her oldest daughter, Reagan didn't typically ever smile. I warned Colleen that I could be pretty goofy during sessions, so there was a chance I could get Reagan to laugh at me. (scroll through the images to see if I was right!) Grandma was in town helping out, so she was able to take the children back to the house after they were finished.

Alexandra had settled and was sleeping by this point, and we had been able to get a few good burps out of her. I moved slowly and gently, and was able to photograph her despite her reflux issues. When she woke up, we moved to mommy and baby images and kept alternating between. Even though the session took much longer than the average time, it gave Colleen a break, and she enjoyed the peace and quiet while enjoying snacks and drinks from the studio supply. We also chatted a lot and found that we had a lot in common besides having three children. Both of us were from Pennsylvania, and we both had similar childhoods. I always love getting to know my clients during their sessions, and this time was no exception. 

I adored working with this wonderful family, and their squishy cheeked baby girl. Enjoy the images! 

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 Newborn Photographer | Baby Ava

Mayra contacted us to book a newborn session for her daughter due in October. I have a special place in my heart for October babies... it might have a little something to do with the fact that two of my own children were born in October, my grandmother's birthday is in October, and MY birthday is in October. October just miiiiiiight be my favorite month of the year. 

Mayra asked if she could use the studio wardrobe because she couldn't fathom the idea of going shopping for something, and also wanted to add on hair and makeup services. I assured her we would find something for her in the wardrobe, and we arranged for her HMUA to be at the studio on her newborn session date as well. You have enough things going on with a newborn: if you want to add on hair and makeup, the only thing you need to do is tell us and show up on your session date. We'll take care of all the scheduling details for you! 

When Mayra and her husband Brent arrived with baby Ava, I had several wardrobe options pulled for her. She tried a few on and fell in love with a lace dress. I actually love the texture and simplicity of lace, although I don't wear it myself often. With three kids it's not the most practical choice! Choosing the right lace is essential for a look that's not overly fussy or prissy. The pieces we have in our wardrobe are timeless and feminine. If lace isn't your thing, not to worry! You can bring clothing from home, and we have so many other options without a shred of lace in sight. Brent had also brought along a few shirts from his closet. I can tell you that pretty much every dad who walks into my studio brings at least three different options. Once we've chosen what mom should wear, I simply make my suggestion as to which is the best choice. We send out a prep guide in advance of your session as well that gives you suggestions as far as colors, patterns, and textures when choosing from your closet. 

I started photographing sweet little Ava while Mayra was in the hair and makeup chair. Mayra requested the use of some of our dainty bows and tiebacks. You won't find headbands with flowers the size of Texas in my studio. That's just not my thing, and anything I choose for your baby girl will complement her skin tone and be proportionate to her head size. As I was finishing up with Ava, Mayra was still in the chair getting the final touches on her hair. We started the session with Brent and Ava for some daddy and daughter shots. To this day, I think he's one of the most visibly happy and proud fathers I've had in the studio and I absolutely love their series of images together. Mayra stepped in for some whole family images, and we wrapped up the session in about thirty minutes. 

I loved working with this family - here are a few of my favorite images from their baby girl's newborn 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 Newborn Photographer | Baby Amira

When Saira contacted us for information about a newborn session, we called back to follow up as we always do. She let us know that she was still thinking about it. We completely understand that choosing the right newborn photographer is a big deal! We're always here to answer any questions that you might have, and welcome them.

It turned out that Saira knew she wanted to work with us, but was worried about being fair to her children. She hadn't had a newborn session for her first baby, and was concerned that booking one for her daughter was shortchanging her oldest a little. This is such a common concern with parents. I love that so many want to treat their children equally. As a mom of three, I am always thinking about whether I'm giving enough time and attention to each of my three. 

Here's what I can tell you: it unfortunately will never be "fair". Your first child had you all to themselves for however long before their sibling came along. Your second child won't get that alone time with you since there's no way to make that happen. What they will get are more experienced and laid back parents who understand how the whole parenting thing goes a lot better than they did the first time around. ;) Your children will also be very different personality wise. What each of them need and want will also look very different. My oldest child wants to spend time actively doing things together. My middle child just wants to snuggle on the couch and would settle for hours every day doing this. My youngest child just wants me to be in the same room as him and watch him playing. He frequently makes sure that I'm looking at him, but if I try to join in? Oh no, my place is to sit in the chair and watch him. It's so funny how different they are! 

When Saira came in the morning of her newborn session with her beautiful baby girl, Amira, we chose a dress from the studio wardrobe for her. I asked her what finally made her decide to reserve her session with us, and that is when she told me she was worried about the fairness factor. I told her what I tell all second and third and fourth time moms. If you didn't have a newborn session with your first baby for whatever reason, that's okay. Maybe you didn't know you wanted one. Maybe your baby had a long NICU stay, or maybe you were so overwhelmed with being a new mother that you put it off and before you knew it you had a six month old and the time for one had long passed. Whatever the reason is, that doesn't mean you have to repeat that with your second baby. Your first baby is celebrating a MAJOR milestone...they're a big brother or sister! Think of your newborn session as a celebration of your new family and the new role that your oldest child has assumed. Some of the sweetest images that I've ever taken are of new siblings together, and this session proved to be no exception. 

I started with Amira's solo portraits, and then Daddy and Oscar arrived as I was finishing up. We always have older siblings join us later because they're much happier that way! This gives you a break and some time to rest and relax, and your big kid has some fun time with their dad and gets their energy out. As soon as they arrived at the studio, we started with the sibling images. Oscar wasn't quite big enough to safely hold Amira, but I have lots of other ways to photograph siblings. Saira and Addison also stepped in a few of the images as well. I really loved how warm and affectionate this family was with each other, and we just had so much fun!

Here are some of my favorites from this amazing family's 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 Newborn Photographer | Baby Luke

Some of my clients are more emotional than others, and Priscilla is one of them - in a good way! She wears her heart on her sleeve, and is genuine and caring. She also loves being a mother to Luke and a wife to her husband, Steve, and that love is written clearly all over her face and every move she makes. It's an amazing thing to see.

The morning of their newborn session, the new family arrived with Grandpa in tow! She was so excited for her dad to be involved with the session too, and I was more than happy to include him. Both of us definitely teared up a little bit during her dad's part. I blame Priscilla: she became overwhelmed with emotion, and I'm a sucker for happy tears. I was incredibly close to both of my grandfathers growing up and cherish the memories and photos with them when I was small. One of my grandfathers passed away five years ago, and my other grandfather is still with us. Grandparents are so important. They're part of your chid's legacy, and your child is part of theirs. If you want to include them, please do! 

I started with Luke's solo newborn portraits and couldn't stop inwardly squealing over his little chin and his hair. Priscilla asked me if we should slick it down, and my response was "It's your choice, but don't you want to remember how curly and stick up everywhere it was?" She decided she did, and left it just the way it was. We flew through Luke's newborn portraits because he was in such a deep sleep and moved right into the family portion. I once again loved watching the deep connection between Priscilla and Steve that I saw during their maternity session. When I look at these images, I see a couple madly in love with each other, completely overjoyed, and utterly grateful be parents to their baby boy. 

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 Newborn Photographer | Baby Ian

Erin contacted us right after her son Ian, was born. As in, contacted us from her hospital bed in her recovery room. She hadn't booked a newborn session and decided that she probably should after falling head over heels in love with her new baby. She realized that how he looked was going to change, and she wanted to forever remember his features and when he was this tiny. We were fortunately able to schedule her for a couple weeks out, and she also elected to add on hair and makeup services. She knew that she would be way too tired to attempt to do it on her own - and every mama who adds these services on is so glad that they did! It's such a nice way to pamper yourself after all the sleeplessness... and I'm telling you, the HMUA artists know how to make those dark undereye circles from the sleep deprivation disappear! 

Erin also mentioned that she didn't want to try and find anything to wear because she wasn't sure what she had that would fit, and the last thing she wanted to do was go shopping. No worries! That's exactly what the studio wardrobe is for. I can't tell you how many mamas have showed up in sweats and a messy bun and we just take it from there.

The morning of their session Erin, Stephen, and Ian arrived. Erin chose a gorgeous blush lace dress from the studio wardrobe that complemented her skin tone and beautiful red hair.  She settled into hair and makeup with Margaret, while I got started with Ian. He was absolutely adorable and I think might I spy a hint of his mother's hair! During his newborn portraits, he needed to eat, so we took a break so Erin could nurse and I then I took him back to finish up. Our HMUA's are completely used to working around nursing moms and they're all very supportive of breastfeeding, and not intrusive at all. I nursed all three of my own children, and I know how difficult the early days can be sometimes. My biggest priority in setting up the studio and crafting the entire experience was the comfort of new moms and babies. Your newborn session shouldn't be a stressful experience. It should be calm, relaxed, and you should feel encouraged and supported during and afterwards. 

Erin was finished with hair and makeup right around the same time I was with Ian, so we finished up with the parent and family images. Stephen needed to get to work as he had only taken a few hours away, so he departed as soon as he was finished. This is totally normal for many new dads since not everyone gets paternity leave. We have lots of dads stop by during their lunch break, and we only need dads for 15-30 minutes depending on how your baby is doing! They are absolutely more than welcome to stay the entire time, but please know it's not necessary if they can't or just would rather not. 

Erin and I had a great time chatting in between feeding Ian and photographing, and I felt like we were old friends by the time we wrapped up. There are so many topics that are covered in the studio while moms and I are chatting... I feel like at this point there's nothing I haven't heard! 

Here are just a few of my favorite images of this sweet family of three... can't wait to see them again in the future! 

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 Newborn Photographer | Baby Olivia

When Monica let me know that Olivia had made an early appearance, I was so excited for them and gave them a couple of dates to schedule their newborn session. A lot of clients ask what happens if their baby arrives before they're due because we only accept a certain number of newborns due in each month. The answer: it doesn't matter when your baby arrives! Once you've booked a newborn session, you are guaranteed a spot on our calendar regardless of whether they arrive at 37 or 42 weeks. Weekend dates are limited and not guaranteed, and most newborn sessions typically take place on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. For dads who don't have much of a paternity leave, they either come over their lunch break for their part, or take a half day from work. 

On the morning of their session, the new family of three arrived at the studio with Grandma in tow and I was able to meet Olivia and gush over her head of hair. She was the sweetest little thing at right around 6 pounds. I took her to the newborn shooting room to get started, and she was a very easy baby to work with. We finished her newborn solo portraits in just over an hour. 

Monica knew exactly which dress she wanted to wear from the studio wardrobe for her newborn session because she had decided during her maternity fitting! (See Monica's maternity session by clicking here) A large percentage of our clients who work with us for both session types either know or have a good idea of what they'll be wearing for their newborn session!

We moved right into the family portion of the session, and had Grandma step in for a few images also. Many clients ask if grandparents and siblings are "allowed" to be part of the session and the answer is, "Yes!" We do ask that you not plan to have siblings and extended family present during the entire session as it often creates a noisier and less calm environment for your baby. Instead, they come at a predetermined time, participate in their part of the session, and then head on out. This ensures a pleasant experience for all! 

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 Newborn Photographer | Baby Ella Mary Claire

I first worked with Cindy for her studio maternity session, which can be viewed by clicking here. Cindy had also wanted to work with me for The Birth Session, but I was unfortunately already fully booked. We tend to book out 6-8 months in advance for The Birth Session and are often the very first to know that our clients are pregnant to begin with! 

I was so excited when Cindy let me know that her little peanut, Ella, had arrived a couple of weeks early! She was a tiny little not-quite-yet six pounds thing and just so adorable! Cindy worked with our HMUA team for add on makeup services. Hair wasn't required this time around since she had her mom to do hers... and her mom is a professional hairstylist! 

Cindy brought along her parents and sister for Ella's newborn session and included them in several images as well. I WELCOME the inclusion of family members should clients want to do that. My own family is everything to me, and I can't imagine not allowing grandparents or siblings to participate in a newborn session. I do like for family members to arrive later on in the session if at all possible. It's so important to keep the studio quiet and serene, and a lot of bodies present for the entire time can affect that. Every family dynamic is different, and you know your family best.  

We had a great time in the studio together photographing Ella with her mom and her entire family. She's a very loved little girl! Cindy loved her images so much that she chose the album option and we had fun designing it together. Because she lived about an hour away, we handled the album design and proofing process via email and she simply came to pick it up when it was ready. We have lots of clients who drive from an hour or more away, so we try to make things as easy as possible for them! 

Enjoy some of my favorite images of sweet Ella's newborn 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 Newborn Photographer | Ava & Addison, fraternal twins

Stacy called the studio to see if we had any availability for her twin girls to come in for a newborn session. We usually have a few sets of twins each year and always have lots of fun with them! I absolutely LOVE working with twins because seeing their unique personalities and features is always so much fun. I've found that even identical twins have some differences! Twin sessions CAN take a bit longer than a single newborn, but that's not always the case. It really just entirely depends on the set of twins.

Stacy opted to work with our HMUA team and added on hair and makeup services. She also borrowed a dress from the studio wardrobe, because hello... twins, nobody has time to try and go find something to wear! 

While Stacy was in the hair and makeup chair, I was photographing the twins. I don't use an assistant for twin sessions, but I do often use dad's help. Kevin was absolutely amazing in bringing me each baby as I photographed them individually and then together. He commented that he had no idea what actually went into newborn photographer and that it was fascinating to get a behind the scenes look at how babies are wrapped, adjusted, and soothed. He also mentioned he was taking notes on the soothing techniques! 

After we finished up with the twins, Stacy was still in the hair and makeup chair, so we started with daddy and daughter images. As we were finishing with those, she was finished up so we moved right into whole family images and then wrapped up with mama only images.

I loved working with this sweet family, and can't wait to see them all again in a couple of months for their 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 Newborn Photography | Baby Kirin

I first worked with Jesse and Suleka for their field maternity session, which can be viewed by clicking here. I was so excited to hear that their baby boy had arrived!  

The morning of their session, the new little family of three arrived at the studio. They chose for their newborn session to just be the three of them instead of including the extended family. Suleka also opted to add on hair and makeup services again and worked with Megan. I was so surprised when Suleka arrived since she had gotten a big haircut since her maternity session, but I thought she looked just as lovely with her shorter style. 

Kirin was just adorable! He slept deeply and was content to be snuggled up in wraps. He also liked stretching and grinned a few times while getting those big long stretches in. Suleka brought a dress from home to wear, which worked perfectly! We provide a newborn prep packet to all our newborn clients in advance of their session. It includes helpful tips for the morning of the session to prepare for the best possible outcomes, and also has a what to wear guide for all participants in the session. Moms are always welcome to borrow from the studio wardrobe, and many do - but it's certainly not a requirement. On that note, neither is wearing a dress. Perhaps you're more of a white t-shirt and jeans kind of gal. I love that! I want all of my clients to wear something they feel beautiful AND comfortable in - and most importantly, represents who they truly are. These images are something that you'll have for a lifetime, so let's not wear something you'll wish you hadn't later. 

As I was finishing up with Kirin's solo portraits, Megan was finishing with Suleka's hair and makeup. We transitioned right into the family and parent portion of our session. Honestly, this is the easiest part! You've been practicing for it since they put your baby in your arms. Literally all of you need to do is admire and love your baby, and I'll take care of the rest. SUPER easy, no stress, and zero pressure. Promise! 

Here are just a few of my favorite images from Kirin's newborn 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 Newborn Photographer | Baby Josephine

This sweet new family of four came into the studio for their new baby girl's newborn session. She was quite the chunker with the plumpest cheeks, and her big sister was absolutely adorable. 

The morning of their session, her mama arrived and settled into the hair and makeup chair while I began photographing Josephine's solo images. Adding on hair and makeup services does not extend the length of your session! I'm simply working with your newborn while you're being pampered. You're going to be sitting and waiting regardless during the beginning of the session flow. Hair and makeup application wrapped up right around the same time I was finishing, and then dad and big sister arrived. When older siblings are involved, we have them arrive later in the session. This way older children don't go stir crazy sitting around and waiting, and we maintain the quiet and peaceful studio atmosphere during the baby only portion. 

We moved right into family images and then wrapped up with parent images. This family chose to create an album with their images, and we had a lot of fun designing their album. We go through the images together and you decide which you'd like to include and choose your favorite linen color for the cover. I take care of the initial design and send an electronic proof over for approval with up to two rounds of revisions included. 

Enjoy the images of this adorable family! 

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 Newborn Photographer | Baby Leo

I first worked with Melissa and Alex for their maternity session in the park, which can be viewed by clicking here. Alex doesn't love being in front of the camera (most guys don't!) but I made the experience so much fun for them that he requested to come back for newborn images. Melissa jumped on that, and we had just as much fun during Leo's newborn session.

The new family of three arrived at the studio the morning of their newborn session, and Melissa settled into the hair and makeup chair while I took Leo to the newborn shooting room. The newborn shooting room is kept nice and toasty warm, and everything I need is within reach of where I sit. I very carefully designed it so that my newborn sessions would be as efficient as possible. So much depends on each individual baby: but the factors that I can control are all squared away. The newborn room also has two observation windows so that you can watch from our main area inside the studio without having to get too warm yourself.  Leo was such a sweet little chunk and snoozed contentedly away while I photographed him. He flashed a few little grins during as well. I keep newborn sessions very simple here. No crazy unnatural poses, and 2-3 setups. The focus is on your baby and their sweet little features and details. Giant Texas sized flowers atop heads and sticking babies in a bucket simply doesn't happen here. 

Melissa chose a dress from our studio wardrobe, and Alex opted to stay more casual in a crewneck t-shirt and jeans. Not every husband likes wearing khaki pants and a button down. Guess what? They don't have to. My main priority is making sure the colors they're wearing will work well with their skin tone and overall color palette, but as far as the level of casualness or dressiness - that is entirely up to you. We've have moms opt to wear jeans and Chuck Taylor tennis shoes, and others wear a tulle skirt. I want you to be you, and to feel comfortable in what you're wearing. These images will be looked at for a lifetime, so please, please... don't feel like you have to put your husband into an outfit he never wears in real life because that's what you're "supposed" to do. We're all about authenticity here! After all, being comfortable in what you're wearing directly translates to how much fun you have during your session. 

The parent images are always fun, and I walk you through every step of the way. Sometimes first time parents are still getting used to holding and handling their tiny babies and marvel at how quickly I can move while wrapping and handing babies over. I've had three of my own, and we see 3-4 newborns per week on a regular basis... trust me, I get a lot of practice. You'll gain the same dexterity with time and experience as your baby grows, promise! That being said, I will help you make sure you're holding your baby correctly for the best camera angles and that you're also comfortable with how you're holding them. I don't ever want a parent to hold their baby and worry that they're going to drop them. If a parent doesn't feel like they can securely hold their baby how I ask them to, no worries! We simply modify it to work for that parent and baby. One of the key traits to being a successful newborn photographer is flexibility. Adapting to the unique needs of each individual baby and family is something we're well versed in. 

Enjoy a few of the images from Leo's newborn 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 Newborn Photographer | Baby Thomas

Kate contacted me at the last minute to schedule a newborn session for her son, Thomas. She and her husband arrived at the studio with grandma in tow. While I typically do not utilize hats in sessions (we do have some sweet knit bonnets for newborns for those who love them), Grandma had knitted her grandson a white hat that they requested be included in one of his setups. I was happy to accommodate their request. The majority of our clients do not bring something along with them, but if they have something meaningful that they would like incorporated, I do my best!  Sometimes what a family brings along just doesn't work with how we photograph newborns in the studio. Because we use light and delicate patterns and palettes, a brightly colored or super chunky knit would look very out of place and not flow well. I always want the focus of solo newborn images to be your newborn and their sweet little features and details. 

After I wrapped up the solo images, we moved on to parent and family images. I love this part of newborn sessions because watching new parents with their baby is an amazing thing to see. The looks between each other and the awe and wonder on their faces as they look at the tiny little being they created together. Parents are often worried they won't know what to do, but no worries! All you need to do is love your baby, and I'll take care of the rest with gentle guided direction for natural interaction. No cheesy or unnatural/stiff/awkward posing goes on in this studio. 

Grandma stepped in at the very end of the session for some three generation images and a couple with her grandson. I absolutely love including grandparents in sessions, and they are more than welcome to participate! Most grandparents plan to arrive at the end of the session for their part in it and then depart with the rest of the family when we wrap up. If you're all coming together from a further distance away, there's a couple of eateries right across the street from the studio where they can go and grab a coffee and a bite to eat. 

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 Newborn Photographer | Baby Madeleine

Emily contacted us in her third trimester to inquire about a newborn session. She decided to book a session with us, and we stayed in touch throughout the remainder of her pregnancy as I like to check in with my clients to see how they're doing! When Madeleine arrived, and Emily let us know she had arrived and requested to add on hair and makeup services to her session. We know you have enough going on with a newborn, so we make adding on services SUPER easy. When you contact us to let us know your baby has arrived, you also tell us you'd like to add on HMUA services. We will then do the back end work for you and send you dates that an artist is available when I am and connect you directly with them to book their services. Simple as that! 

On the morning of their session, Emily and George arrived at the studio with Emily's mom. Emily hopped into the hair and makeup chair with Margaret after a choosing a dress from the studio wardrobe. I started photographing Madeleine for her solo portraits in our newborn shooting room. Some clients think that adding on hair and makeup services will extend the length of their session but that's not the case. You're either sitting on the studio couch waiting for me to finish photographing your baby, or sitting in a makeup chair being pampered. (which sounds better to you?)

 I found out that Emily had grown up in Charlotte (where I also grew up) while chatting with her mother. Madeleine was such a sweetie, and slept so well during her session. She took a couple of breaks to nurse, which is never a problem for our babies to do! Your baby leads the session and their comfort and safety are always the first priority.

Emily asked for a couple of images with her mom, and I was more than happy to oblige. I love when grandparents participate in sessions and they are always welcomed and encouraged to do so. Her mom looked lovely in what she had chosen to wear to the session, but it didn't work well with Emily's dress. So I made a few suggestions of pieces from the studio wardrobe, and her mom chose one to wear. Lots of our grandmothers borrow from the wardrobe - and we send a newborn prep packet ahead of your session to help you pick out pieces from your own closets! 

I just loved working with this family - here are a few of my favorite images! 

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 Newborn Photographer | Baby Hannah

Samantha booked her newborn session in her second trimester and dropped by the studio with her husband just to say hi. She asked me about hair and makeup services as she had noticed that most of our clients add that on. I answered her questions, and she decided she wanted to add it on too. Let me quickly address two things about adding on services!

(1) Adding on HMUA services does NOT extend the length of your newborn session. When you arrive at the studio, you slip into the hair and makeup chair and I start with photographing just your baby. We are usually finishing up at around the same time, and if I finish before you're ready, we'll take some daddy and baby images.

(2) For newborn session, all you need to do is let us know that you want to add it on to your session and you can wait until you contact us to let us know your baby has been born. We will then send you dates to choose from that both of us are available, and you simply pick one! The HMUA will be in touch with you directly to take care of booking from their end. Simple as that - we make it easy! 

Another note: I always welcome meeting clients in advance of our booked session, as it allows us to chat for a little bit and get to know each other a little bit before you bring your brand new baby in. So, if you have booked a session and would like to come in and meet, just let us know and we'll schedule you to stop in. 

I was so excited when Samantha emailed to let me know that little Hannah had arrived! When the family came up to the studio the morning of their session, Megan and I were both waiting for them. We always love peeking into the carseat and (quietly) squealing over how cute the babies are! Samantha chose a tunic from the studio wardrobe that she really liked, and settled into hair and makeup while I began photographing Hannah. It's striking how much Hannah resembles her daddy! You'll see what I mean once you see the images of them together. 

Hannah was a sweetheart and she started smiling once she was in her mommy's arms for the parent and family portion of our session. I know that smiles are "just gas" but part of me doesn't really believe that. I like to think that babies feel happy, secure, and loved, and sometimes they smile to let us know.  Without further ado, here are some of my favorite images from Hannah's 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 Newborn Photographer | Baby Parker

Sarah contacted us for a last minute newborn session when her baby girl, Parker, was three weeks old. We photograph three week old babies all the time, and it's NOT too late for a newborn session at that point. It's one of my biggest pet peeves that there is a misconception out there that your baby has to be ten days old at a maximum for a newborn session. I'm not sure how that started it....but please know that it isn't true! We typically schedule newborns for between 8-16 days of life when possible, but sometimes it isn't. Maybe you or your baby had some complications requiring extra healing time or a hospital stay. Maybe you are completely overwhelmed by pregnancy and then a newborn that you never got around to scheduling a newborn session and now wish you had. The older and larger your baby is, the less curled up they may be. Some of my three week olds have been my absolute best sleepers and curliest babies, so there is just no way to predict. I let my tiny clients lead the way during sessions and their safety and comfort is my top priority. 

Sarah also decided to add on makeup services with Megan, and requested a smoky eye. Megan is the queen of smoky eyes, and was so excited to apply her makeup! That being said, our HMUA's will communicate with you to determine your vision and work with you to achieve that. They are the absolute experts in their field and will match your skin tone and undertone perfectly, and tailor their makeup application perfectly to you based on your face and eye shape. 

While Sarah was in the makeup chair, I started with Parker's solo portraits. She started moving and stretching, and I patiently waited to capture quite a few cute expressions during. I just love her laid back personality, and if I didn't know better, I'd say she winked at me! 

At the end of their session, they brought in their amazing French bulldog, Tiber.  We do allow small, very well behaved and minimal to no shedding dogs in our studio only for the time that they are being photographed. You will need to make arrangements to have your pet brought the studio at that time by a friend or family member. If your pet does not do well in new places or isn't adjusting to your baby well, or is large and sheds a lot, we cannot accommodate them in the studio. Cats are not permitted in the studio at all. For safety reasons, we will not place your newborn next to your pet alone. Pets are photographed as part of the family unit while you are holding your baby. 

When Sarah viewed her gallery, she fell in love with all of the images and chose to have an album created as well as two petite albums for each set of grandparents. She let me know which images were her top favorites so that they could have prominent placement within the album design, and made a stack of which images she wanted included in it. I send a proof over before printing, so clients are involved in final say of the album design with a chance to submit revisions if they have any design change preferences. Albums are such a beautiful way to have all of your images printed out and in one place. I used to wonder what I would do with an album, but have since fallen in love with them and order them for my own family sessions. My children love looking at the images together and request to look at them often. 

Here are just a few images from Parker's 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 Newborn Photographer | Baby Warner

I first worked with Stephanie & Ben for their maternity session in the park, which can be viewed by clicking here. They were such a fun and loving couple to photograph! I was so excited to hear that their baby boy, Warner, had finally arrived. He was every bit as cute as I thought he would be and was such a little snuggler. He had long dark eyelashes and the flashed the sweetest little grins throughout his session.

One of my favorite things about newborn sessions is seeing and photographing how enamored new parents are with their newborns. This is just the way it should be, and it always takes me back to when my own children were that tiny. I remember staring at them in awe and listening to their little squeaks and coos. I remember how they snuggled up to my chest and were small enough to cover with both of my hands. I blinked, and now my oldest is in kindergarten. I'm so grateful to have beautiful images of each of our children and our family from that time so I never forget what my children looked like as newborns and how our family looked at that time in our lives. 

Stephanie opted to add on makeup services for her session, so Megan and I were waiting at the studio when the family arrived. I pulled a dress from the studio wardrobe that I knew Stephanie would look amazing in since it was by the same label as one of the dresses she chose for her maternity session. She LOVED the dress, and fit perfectly into it! Megan started working on Stephanie while I took Warner to the newborn shooting room for his solo portraits. Adding on HMUA services does NOT extend your newborn session time. Our hair and makeup artists are usually finishing up at the same time I am with just your baby, and we move to parent and family images. If you're still in the chair when I am finished with your baby, we'll move to dad and baby images while we wait for you to join us! 

Here are just a few images from Warner's newborn session. Isn't he the cutest little guy? 

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 Newborn Photographer | Baby Aria

I first worked with Mia for her maternity session in the studio, which can be viewed by clicking here. After that, I attended her amazing birth at the Atlanta Birth Center and documented the day she welcomed her daughter into the world. Those images will not be shared on the blog as the privacy of my clients is my first priority. Before I left the birth center, we scheduled her daughter's newborn session date. 

Baby Aria gave me a run for my money during my time with her! She was a very calm and serious baby who was dead set on not sleeping. I tried many of my tricks, and she would close her eyes, only to open them right back up. I finally tried a trick that worked (that's for me to know, and you to find out) and she settled into a nice deep sleep for the remainder of her session. I love wide awake babies, but there are certain positions that you just can't place a wide awake baby into since they won't curl up or be snuggly when awake. Big brother did such a wonderful job during their session, and Grandma whisked him away for a trip to the Zoo after his part was finished. We will discuss your toddler's schedule and we'll work it out so that they don't need to be in the studio once they are finished. Toddlers like to run and have fun, and there's no need to keep them sitting somewhere for two hours. We want this to be a fun and relaxing experience for all involved. 

Here are a few of my favorite images from Aria's newborn session. Doesn't she have the cutest serious gaze? I love her pouty little lips and that "So, you want me to go to sleep, huh?" face. 

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 Newborn Photographer | Baby Jackson

Katie contacted us when her baby boy, Jackson, was almost three weeks old. She was afraid she had missed the window for newborn sessions and hadn't gotten around to scheduling one when she was pregnant. While we strongly recommend booking in advance for a guaranteed session, we are often able to fit last minute inquiries in depending on when our guaranteed reservations are born. So if you're a mama who waited until the last minute and your baby is already here, contact us now and see if we have availability for you! We were so pleased to let her know that we had an opening for a newborn session, and got her in within a couple of days. When she arrived with her husband, she looked through the studio wardrobe and chose something to wear from it. Her husband had some church duties to attend to that Sunday, so he headed out with the plan to return later after Jackson's solo portraits for the family session and wrap up. 

Jackson was just the sweetest little guy. He snoozed away and I loved holding him while wrapping him because he would constantly let out sweet little squeaks and contented sighs. My husband tells me that I must get my fill of babies at the studio, but I'll be honest... every time I hold a sweet little newborn I always think to myself, "I could do this for a fourth time." However, we will be sticking with the three beautiful children that we have - no more babies for this family. So I'll have to make do with snuggling and photographing all the amazing newborns that come through the studio every month! 

Katie and I had fun chatting about everything and nothing during Jackson's nursing breaks. Some moms prefer total privacy while nursing, and if that's you - no worries! I will quietly sit in the corner while you spend time with your baby. If you'd prefer to chat while nursing, I'm always up for that too since I enjoy getting to know my clients. I always love hearing about how my clients met and fell in love. I later found out that one of their wedding planner's assistants was a friend of mine (Kathleen from Almost Wed here in Atlanta) when she noticed an image on Instagram and sent me a message about them. Atlanta can be such a small world! 

As I was wrapping up Jackson's solo images, his daddy returned from church and we moved to the family portion of their session. I just love how happy they were and what a loving and sweet relationship they had with each other which you can see in their beaming smiles as they look at each other. The onset of the parenting journey is often tough with sleep deprivation and a tiny human who depends on you for everything, but in the end, you're a family and you have each other. I just love being able to photograph families at the very beginning so they always remember that feeling of joy amidst the overwhelm and how tiny their baby was at the beginning. 

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 Newborn Photographer | Baby Henry

Michelle contacted me in her second trimester to book a newborn session for their baby. They didn't know if they were having a boy or a girl, which is the same decision that I made with all three of my children. I think it's a surprise no matter when you choose to find out, but I loved the entire experience of wondering and then finding out once our babies were in our arms at long last! I was actually present for the birth of Henry as well, but you won't see the images from that shared here on the blog as client privacy for The Birth Session is my top priority. We scheduled their newborn session before I left the hospital the day he was born, and Michelle opted to add on hair and makeup services as well. 

The day of their newborn session, I was so excited to see Henry and how much he had grown since his birth! Babies look remarkably different from the first few hours, to couple of days, to first weeks. It's truly amazing how much change occurs, and parents always marvel at it when they view the images. Michelle selected one of our studio dresses from the wardrobe to wear and settled into the hair and makeup chair with Megan while I began to work with Henry for his solo portraits. 

Henry had plump little cheeks and pouty lips, and was such a dream sleeper. His parents were so in love, and they brought along Kalyan's mother who was visiting from India. Even though she didn't speak English, we worked together for her to be comfortable during our session and captured some beautiful generational photos. Many clients ask if there is an extra fee for grandparents or siblings to be involved: the answer is absolutely not! Newborn sessions are just as much about celebrating your new family as they are of capturing your new addition and I honor that during the family portion of newborn session. 

After Henry's session, Michelle emailed to  book his six month milestone session (which is happening next week!) and his one year session. Many of our clients choose to document the entire first year and get the dates on the calendar right away. Henry will also be coming into the studio in December for our Santa sessions which currently still have available slots! 

Enjoy some of my favorites from Henry's 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.