Atlanta Maternity Photography | Kathleen & Owen | A mommy and me session

Kathleen called the studio phone at the very last minute to see if we could work her into our schedule for a maternity session... at 38 weeks pregnant. She is an actress out in Los Angeles and was living here temporarily while her husband was finishing up work on a movie set. She decided that she really wanted maternity photos with her little boy to document her pregnancy with her little girl and how sweet her little boy was. I happened to be at the studio working when she called, so we had her come right over from where she was shopping at Atlantic Station for a maternity fitting. 

When she arrived at the studio, she let me know that she wanted to dress more casually for part of the session in jeans and the shirt that she had on so she could tumble around with her son, and also wanted to wear one of the studio dresses for part of the session. I thought that was a great idea, so we set about trying on dresses, and she found one that she loved. She showed me sweater that she had just picked up for her son, Owen, and I thought it was absolutely perfect. We said our goodbyes and crossed our fingers that she wouldn't have little Miss Lily until AFTER her scheduled session.

Fortunately, Lily stayed in, and we met at the park location. It was an absolutely gorgeous and warm November evening. When they arrived, Owen had fallen asleep in the car and didn't wake up even when moved to a stroller. We decided to let him wake on his own since most toddlers aren't exactly the happiest when awoken! I started with solo images of Kathleen, and then Owen woke up. He was a little bit grumpy, but his curiousness about me and where we were won out.  When he heard that he got to play, run around, and hug his mommy, he was all about participating. 

I LOVED working with Kathleen and Owen, and was so happy that I was able to make a last minute session work for them! Kathleen chose to order a large mounted print of the first black and white image of them snuggling, and I thought it was the perfect choice. 

If you have waited until the very last second for a maternity session and are wondering if you should go for it... contact us! We'll chat about what you're hoping for, and see if we have any availability to get you in right away. No maternity client has ever regretted documenting such a special time in their life. We'll have fun, you'll look and feel beautiful, and you'll have a story to tell your baby about that time mommy waited until she was 38 weeks pregnant to book a maternity 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 | 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 Maternity Photographer | Jessica & Daniel

Jessica contacted me in the middle of April to see if I had availability for a maternity and newborn session. She was expecting their first child, a baby boy! I responded and let her know that I had one opening left for April, and that it was three days away. She jumped at the chance to book her session, and came to the studio for a maternity fitting with her husband.

Jessica and Daniel have a pretty significant height difference! She is all of 5'2", and he is super tall at 6'6". She was a bit concerned that the dresses in the studio would be too long for her and not work well, but I assured her that many of the pieces work for a wide range of heights. We also have what seems like an unlimited supply of safety pins to temporarily fit clothing to more petite bodies! Jessica ended up choosing two dresses that she loved and looked gorgeous on her. Her husband opted to borrow one of the men's chambray linen shirts that we have on hand for men so he wouldn't have to worry about shopping with the session being so soon. 

We met at the field, and it was such a gorgeous evening. I LOVE shooting in the field year round, and it's absolutely beautiful when it's both cloudy and sunny - but I definitely just adore sun soaked images, and that's exactly the kind of evening it was. 

During the session Daniel kept crouching down out of habit. I let him know this wasn't necessary and to embrace the height difference. For some images when couples are snuggling, I do encourage dads to get as close as possible but ask them to do this how they naturally would. For some men that's bending at the back, others bend their knees. I want your images to be true to who you are both individually and as a couple. 

Here are just a few images from our fun evening shooting in the field. I absolutely loved working with this couple for maternity and newborn (check back tomorrow to see their newborn session!) and am looking forward to seeing them again for their son's First Birthday 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 Family Photographer | Ava's sitter session in the gardens

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Jasmine & Gregory in the studio

Jasmine contacted me to see if I had any last minute availability to photograph a studio maternity session. She and Gregory were expecting their first child, a baby boy, and were so excited! Jasmine knew she wanted a split front dress as she wanted some bare belly images, and she also knew she wanted something lacy. She found two dresses in the studio wardrobe that fit her vision perfectly. 

Jasmine and Gregory met through work and have been together for a long time. They are such a loving and affectionate couple, and we had a lot of fun during their session. I loved Jasmine's gorgeous braids and big smile. Gregory was so devoted to her and doted on her the entire time. Aren't they the sweetest?! I'm choosing to share my favorite black and white images from their session with me, but clients always receive both a color and black and white edit of each image. 

Congratulations Jasmine & Gregory! Your son is such a lucky little boy to have such loving parents like you. 

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?  

View fullsize

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 Maternity Photography | A studio session with Adrienne & Dave

Adrienne and Dave came to visit me for a complimentary consultation at the studio in May for a consultation to meet with me and learn more about the booking and photography process. It was really important to them that they mesh well with their photographer's personality and develop a relationship. I love clients who want this, so I always welcome a meeting! They had also just relocated to Atlanta and were in the midst of moving into their new home, making plans for everything baby related, and in the next couple of days after meeting with me...Dave threw his back out. I didn't know this at the time, of course. I had been so busy at the studio with clients as that spring and summer were the busiest on record, so I assumed they were busy also or had found someone that was the perfect fit for them. Several months later in August, an email popped up in my inbox from Adrienne asking if she could book a maternity and newborn session, and apologizing for not getting in touch sooner. I literally only had ONE remaining date in my calendar for a studio session, and made room for another newborn on my calendar for them in October. 

When Adrienne came to the studio for her maternity fitting, she was a bit worried that we wouldn't have anything that would fit her. Adrienne is 4'11" and sometimes that height can be swallowed up in dresses. The studio wardrobe has seen clients from 4'11" to 6'3" and ranging from size 0 to 16 and we've always found options that will work for them! Adrienne was no exception. She fell in love with one of our fitted strapless lace dresses with a sweetheart neckline. The off white color complemented her skin tone perfectly! She also loved the backless taupe crinkle gown that is so popular with our clientele, and chose that as well.

Adrienne also decided to work with Margaret for her hair and makeup. Margaret is incredibly experienced with pretty much every skin tone (and undertone) as well as hair texture. I'll put it this way... everyone who chooses to work with our HMUA team is so glad that they did, and it makes the experience that much more fun! Maternity clients with studio sessions simply show up at the studio in advance of their session to be prepped. Enjoy a drink from the studio fridge, help yourself to snacks from the snack basket, chill out to some music (just play from your phone via Bluetooth on our studio Bose speaker), have a great conversation with your HMUA, and make some plans to go out for a meal afterwards to show off your gorgeous hair and makeup! 

I arrived about 10 minutes before our session start time to get set up for Adrienne's maternity session. Once she was finished with hair and makeup, we helped her get dressed and began the session. It was so much fun, and Adrienne and Dave are just so sweet together! She told me that she is Filipino and that Dave is Chinese, and that they are wondering who their baby will take after more. I think every parent wonders that... I know I did. Adrienne and Dave also decided NOT to find out if they were having a boy or a girl. I made the same decision with each of my three pregnancies, so I'm always so excited when a couple tells me they're not finding out - getting to see their anticipation and wondering if they're going to have a son or a daughter is always so fun. 

Here are some of my favorite images from their maternity session in black and white! Sometimes I love a session so much in black and white that I choose to share only those on the blog. Adrienne and Dave received their images in both color and black and white as the final images are edited in both formats.  

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 Twin Photographer | David & Sania

Janell contacted me to see if I had availability for The Birth Session, but unfortunately I was not. I do not accept births between the months os October-December due to the holidays and the birthdays of my own three children and husband who were all born in those months. Janell was disappointed but completely understood, and decided to book a Fresh 48 session for her twins when they arrived! Her babies ended up arriving a few weeks early and had to spend some time in the NICU, so Janell decided to transfer to a newborn session instead. When they arrived at the studio I was in complete awe of how tiny and cute they were! David was 5 pounds 2 ounces, and little miss Sanîa was 4 pounds 12 ounces. They were the SWEETEST little duo, and happiest right next to each other all cuddled up just like they were in their mama's belly. I also took images of each individually, and then concluded the session with family images. It was a lot of fun, and I just LOVE this family! I can't wait to see these little babies again for their milestone sessions and watch them grow. 

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

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

Atlanta Baby Photography | Abby turns ONE!

Abby came to the studio to celebrate turning ONE and was the very first baby to be photographed on the new studio floors! Her mama elected to borrow some pieces from the studio wardrobe for Abby's session. We started off with one of my favorite tutus which we put over a grey camisole and paired with one of the many tiebacks in my collection. These tiebacks are often worn during newborn sessions, and it's pretty special to use one of the same ones when your newborn turns one!  

After capturing Abby crawling around on the floor and playing with some of the studio toys, we decided to contain her a little bit using some of our studio chairs. The high chair is a genuine vintage high chair with the perfect amount of natural weathering, and is so perfect for crawling and walking babies! It keeps them contained for a little bit so their expressions and little details can more easily be captured, and is the perfect way to transition to the cake portion of one year sessions. 

I always have a parent place the cake on the tray so that I can capture the first reactions to cake. A lot of clients ask when they should schedule the one year session. The answer depends on your personal preferences! Some of my clients want the images to truly capture their baby's first exposure to cake. Others prefer for that moment to be at their first birthday party and schedule the one year session for the week afterwards. Either way you choose, babies with cake are adorable! All of my clients have told me afterwards that they LOVED being able to just stand and watch and take in every moment without worrying about taking pictures themselves. 

I think it's safe to say she loved her cake, don't you? It was so funny watching her navigate her cake and then deciding this would be the most efficient way to get as much as possible into her mouth. Smart girl! 

Chubby cheeks and long eyelashes...forever preserved to remember. Those cheeks will slowly disappear as she grows into a toddler and a little girl but her mama will always have these images to remember exactly what she looked like. 

After we cleaned Miss Abby up, her mama started getting her ready to go. When she pulled this dress out of her diaper bag, I immediately asked if we could take a few more images because it was just SO perfect. And sure enough, these last few images ended up being some of my favorite from Abby's one year session! 

If you would like to reserve your baby's first year session, it's never to early to do so! Many of my clients schedule their six month and first year sessions when they see me during their newborn session. I love documenting babies and young families as they grow, and I would love to work with you to create milestone images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film to hear about my philosophy and see how I work in the studio so you can determine if I'm the right fit for you. I can't wait to meet you!

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

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Stephanie & Ben at the park

When Stephanie contacted us to learn more about our maternity and newborn sessions, she chose to book both. I love working with couples for both, and often see them for important milestones and then every year thereafter. 

Stephanie came to the studio for her maternity fitting and I saw right away that she had a free spirit and loved the bohemian look. I pulled two dresses that I knew she would fit in, and she fell in love with them immediately. They were perfect for her skin tone and her personality! She had initially chosen the studio for her session, but I let her know that I felt the park was a better fit for what she was envisioning and the dresses she had chosen. She agreed, and we changed it to the park location since I still had availability for that time of day. We discussed what her husband should wear, and she also elected to book HMUA services as well. 

The day of their maternity session was freezing cold and a bit windy. I am always a fan of wind during sessions because it adds such a beautiful and natural element that can't be replicated. I could follow clients around with a leaf blower, but I just don't think that would work as well. (Yes, I am joking) I assured her that I work quickly, and grabbed a blanket from my stash to bring along with us which came in handy for warming up in between. The blanket even made it into some of their final gallery images! :) 

We had so much fun during their session and laughed a lot. Ben was a little unsure at first (like most husbands!) but after about 5 minutes, he was having a good time too. The most common concern that my clients express is that they don't know what to do and are afraid they're going to look awkward. Listen. It's MY job to get you comfortable and having fun. We'll build a relationship of trust and communication at the beginning of your experience with me when you come in for your maternity fitting. During your actual session, you won't be left wondering what to do. I'm with you every step of the way. When you look at your images after the session, you'll smile and remember how much fun you had during, and that the moments were real moments and reactions and not faked. 

Here are some of my favorites from this gorgeous 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 Family Photographer | The Cook Family

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

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

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

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

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

Atlanta Newborn Photography | Julia

I was so excited to meet Julia when Caroline texted me to let me know she had arrived! I'd last seen Caroline & Ruben at their maternity session which can be viewed by clicking this link. 

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 Baby Photographer | Calhoun's Fresh 48 at Kennestone Hospital

I'm always honored when clients ask me to return for the birth of their second child! 2017 is a record year for repeat clients with a total of 5 clients welcoming their second babies. I'm so excited to watch their families grows! As a note, 2017 is now fully booked for The Birth Session with some Fresh 48 slots still remaining. Fresh 48 sessions are only available at hospitals within the perimeter and take place during daylight hours before you're discharged to go home. A lot of my clients with older children love to book Fresh 48 sessions so that they can fully enjoy watching the first interactions between siblings and soak in those moments without having to be trapped behind a camera to document it. 

On this January day, I arrived at the hospital and began documenting the day of Calhoun's birth. We moved to their recovery room, and big sister came to meet her new baby brother. It was a surreal experience for me since the last time I had seen big sister was literally the day she was born. It was such a special experience and an honor to be there and document their very first moments as a new family of four.

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 & Family Photographer | What a difference a year makes

After newborn sessions, I often see my clients again for milestone sessions! The most popular milestone sessions are when babies are sitting unassisted (between 6-8 months) and then again at one year. I love comparing the newborn and one year photos with my clients, and I'm always amazed by how much babies change in that first year! 

The first image was of her as a big sister again holding her tiny two week old brother on her lap. When I photographed his one year portrait and cake smash session, we decided to take another similar image. These two are the best of friends. She is his little mama, his protector, and encourager. She was there when he was born, and she correctly predicted that he would be a boy. She begs to go into his room when he wakes in the morning or from a nap, and his face lights up with joy when he sees her. She crawls around on the floor with him, and picks up his water cup countless times when he accidentally (or not so accidentally) drops it. I hope they're always close and there for each other, and I hope when they're adults they look at these images and smile. 

Clothing provided from the studio wardrobe.

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 Photographer | Ashley in the studio

When Ashley contacted me to schedule her maternity session in the studio, she let me know she was including her niece. I let her know I had lots of dress options for them both, and we scheduled their fitting to take place two weeks before their session. The fitting was lots of fun, and Ashley was a bit overwhelmed by all of the choices! She fell in love with two of the dresses and her niece absolutely loved one of the little girl dresses in our wardrobe too which was a perfect complement to both of the dresses that Ashley had choices. Her niece saw one of the flower crowns we keep in the studio and eagerly asked if she could wear it. The answer was, "Yes, of course!" We also talked about what her husband should wear, and I gave her specific examples and color palette ideas. Husbands can always bring multiple options from their closet and I'll help choose the best one the day of the session. 

On the day of the session, Ashley drove an hour from Cumming, Georgia and arrived with her husband and niece and we got started. Most of my clients are a bit nervous when we first begin shooting, and are worried they won't know what to do or will somehow mess things up. This doesn't need to be a concern of yours! It's my job to take care of things for you, and I will guide you the entire time as needed. Come in and plan to relax and have FUN! Your maternity session should be one of the happiest and best memories of your pregnancy, and even though you may not feel this way: you are beautiful. Trust me! 

These are a few of my favorite images from Ashley's 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 | Meriwether

When Kate contacted me for a newborn session and told me that they had named their new baby girl Meriwether, I just thought it was one of the cutest and most unique names I had heard in a while! I knew the name from the movie Sleeping Beauty, but had never met an actual person with the name until this session. I think it suits her just perfectly! 

When the family arrived, they showed me the options they had brought from their closet. Moms are always welcome to borrow from the studio wardrobe, but the newborn preparation packet sent in advance of your session gives you guidelines of what to wear if you want to bring something from your own closet. My biggest goal is for you to be COMFORTABLE and also feel beautiful. That may be something from your own closet or from the studio - and it doesn't matter which it is. Dads should also feel comfortable and like themselves. Kate had brought several button downs and a regular v-neck pocketless cotton t-shirt as options for him. When I asked him, "Which is most who you are?", he pointed to the t-shirt. Moms, if your husband wears a t-shirt and is most comfortable in that, don't be afraid to let him wear that! When your child looks at those images, they're going to see their dad wearing what he normally wears. Choose a color that is flattering on him (not everyone looks good in white!), a fit that is comfortable for him, and you will all be happier for it. As a note, I do strongly discourage polo shirts for sessions as they do not photograph as well as a plain crew or v neck pocketless T or a button down. 

Meriwether was a champion sleeper and didn't wake up at all during her solo portraits. She was comfortable and warm, and I just loved how she stretched and then curled up into a little ball. Her parents watched the session from the observation window. 

These new parents were just so excited to have their baby girl with them in their arms, and were so much fun to talk to! We had a lot of fun during their session! The goal of all my sessions is authenticity: from your interactions with me, each other, and to your resulting images. In order to achieve this goal, I talk to my clients and get to know them throughout our time together. 

Here are a few of my favorite images from this sweet family's 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 Baby Photographer | Baby Vivian, 9 days new

When Jenny and Ben contacted us, their daughter was already 8 days old. They asked if I had any last minute availability and admitted that with the holiday season and the busyness of pregnancy they had just completely forgotten to make arrangements for their newborn photography session. I frequently photograph babies that are in their third week which is never a problem, but I only had one day open that week and was fully booked for the next two weeks. It's important to book early to guarantee availability since once the calendar is full, it's full. The only day I had open happened to be the very next day which worked for their schedule! Jenny opted to add on the services of one of our hair and makeup artists as well.

The next morning when Jenny arrived, she walked into the studio wearing comfy leggings and a sweater. She chose a dress she loved from the studio wardrobe, and Megan started working on her hair and makeup. I took sweet little Vivian into the newborn shooting room and started with her individual portraits. I use tiebacks during baby girl sessions, but it's totally up to mama if she wants some used for all or none of their baby's images. None of the tiebacks that I use are obnoxiously Texas-sized as I prefer dainty and pretty tiebacks that accentuate features and subtly add to the sweetness of your new baby girl.

After about 30 minutes, baby Vivian was hungry so she took a little break and joined her mama in the makeup chair to nurse. We have nursing pillows in the studio that perfectly fit on mama's laps while sitting in the makeup chair, and our HMUA team is used to working around mothers who need to feed their babies - whether it's nursing or by a bottle. We support however you choose to feed your baby and will make sure you are comfortable! 

After I finished with baby only images, I worked with Ben and Vivian for some daddy and daughter images. I absolutely love seeing new daddies with their babies. There's just something about the pride and the love that I can see in their eyes that I'm just so excited to capture. A lot of my dads are a little nervous about what they should do, and when I tell them, "All you need to do is love them", they realize that they're actually going to have fun and get to be themselves, and relax. 

As we finished shooting the daddy and daughter portion, Jenny was finished with her hair and makeup which she loved! The vast majority of mothers choose to add these services on because it's so incredibly easy and stress free. I can't tell you how many brand new mamas roll out of their bed, walk into the studio wearing yoga pants, a sweater, and slippers, and we take care of the rest. Imagine not having to worry about getting ready in the midst of caring for a brand new baby. Let's face it: most new moms are pretty tired in those first few months. Professionally styled hair and makeup application is a game changer. The goal is not to make you look like a Pinterest version of yourself, but rather to enhance your natural beauty and help make you look more refreshed and rested!  

We concluded the session with mother-daughter images mixed in with family. I know my new mamas are tired, and still physically recovering, so I don't ask them to move around a lot. Instead, I have dad do all the moving! It's a very efficient flow and works beautifully, so you'll be on your way out the door in no time. 

Without further ado, enjoy some of my favorite images from this sweet girl'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 | A little bit about the newborn session process

I love photographing newborns in my natural light studio here in Atlanta! Sometimes parents let me know that they prefer a very neutral and simple white setup for all of their images, and I always love these. The focus is drawn right to your baby and all of their sweet little details. 

This little baby girl arrived at the studio asleep in her car seat. She woke up when I took her out, but was so easy to settle once she was wrapped on her tummy and fell right back to sleep.

So many babies love to snuggle and sleep on their tummies, so I always put them right into this position if they're half awake or starting to wake up. The studio is kept toasty warm (but not too warm!) and I am constantly monitoring their temperature and comfort level throughout the session.

I refuse to contort babies into unnatural positions or force a baby into a position they don't want to be in. During sessions sometimes a newborn will protest being moved, but settle within a minute or so. The way a newborn sounds and the faces they make are the best indicators of whether they just need to settle or whether it's not something they want to do and to move on to something else. Your baby's safety and comfort level is my top priority. Here's a rare image of me at work with this cute little chunk. I absolutely LOVE tiny babies, and consider it such an honor to get to spend a couple of hours with them and your brand new family! I really do have the best job in the world. 

A lot of clients ask when they should book their newborn sessions - the answer is: as soon as you know you want to work with us! We do not book a specific date for you on the calendar because babies arrive on their own timetable. Instead, we have a limited number of sessions available per month and those months fill up babies do in that month. No worries at all if your baby decides to be born earlier or later and your session is in a different month than your estimated due date. We have you covered! 

It's never too early to book because our calendar does fill up quickly. While we do have last minute availability from time to time and always do our best to fit last minute clients in, it's safest to reserve right away to guarantee your spot on the calendar. We unfortunately had to turn away quite a few newborns in 2016 because we were fully booked. Once you're booked you're all set. When you have your baby, you simply let us know they're here and we provide you with some dates to choose from. If you plan on using hair and makeup services from our HMUA team, we will provide you with dates that they're available as well. 

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 cherish for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film to hear about my philosophy and see how I work in the studio so you can determine if I'm the right fit for you. I can't wait to meet you!

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

Atlanta Family Photographer | Fun family sunset session in the park

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

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

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

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

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