Atlanta Maternity Photographer | An evening with Kristen & Steve in the park

Kristen and Steve drove all the way from Myrtle Beach, SC for a maternity session in the park location with me! They were actually the fourth client from South Carolina to book with us in 2017. We work with LOTS of clients from other states and we are available for travel to NYC and Charlotte, NC at certain times during the year. If you're from one of those areas and hoping for a maternity session, contact us to see when we'll be in your area next!  

Because they were from out of town, we scheduled the maternity fitting to take place right beforehand and Kristen also elected to add on hair and makeup services with Margaret. Steve had brought a couple of his own shirts, but they were just too dark to work with Kristen's choices so we pulled a shirt from our studio wardrobe for him which fit him perfectly and pulled the whole look together. Kristen found two dresses that she loved during her fitting, and we headed to the location for their session. 

It was a cold evening in March, so I had grabbed a couple of shawls from the maternity wardrobe to use during the session. I love textures and layers, and during colder sessions I have no qualms about asking couples to snuggle up in a blanket if mama needs to warm up! The light was beautiful, so braving the cold was worth it. We had a lot of fun during the session and Kristen looked absolutely gorgeous, Margaret did an absolutely wonderful job as she always does. Adding on hair and makeup services with our HMUA team will take things to another level in terms of your personal confidence during the session and the end result. They will work closely with you to customize the perfect look for you that you're comfortable with and that you feel like a supermodel wearing! 

The following images are just a few of my favorite from their session! They welcomed the cutest little baby girl a couple of months later, and I can't wait to meet her when they return to Atlanta for a family session 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 Family Photographer | A golden family maternity session in the field

Taniqua contacted the studio because she saw some of our work, and a friend of hers mentioned that she had worked with us for her maternity and newborn sessions. She had never had professional family images taken, and she decided since this was likely her last baby, she wanted to have this time documented before they became a family of five. She LOVED the field location, and she brought her two children to the studio for a maternity fitting. We talked about what her husband and son should wear, and her daughter had lots of fun trying on dresses from our little girls' studio wardrobe. Taniqua chose two dresses for herself, and also elected to add on makeup services with Megan. 

We met at the field, and while Taniqua and her daughter got dressed I chatted with her husband about his Apple Watch. My husband had just gotten one, and I was considering getting one for myself. He convinced me to get one (I actually went to Best Buy afterwards and picked one up!) and I've LOVED having it. Totally a random tangent here... but if you're considering an Apple Watch, I'm a fan of them! 

When everyone was ready, we headed out to the field to begin shooting. The kids had fun running around and playing with their parents and there was a lot of love and laughter happening. I so enjoyed working with this fun family, and there were so many beautiful images from their session it was almost impossible to choose a favorite! The image that Taniqua chose to print now hangs in their home in a 16x20 framed print on their wall. I'm looking forward to seeing this family again for another family session next year with their third baby in tow! 

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

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

Atlanta Baby Photographer | A Fresh 48 Session at Piedmont Hospital

Liz & Isaac booked a Fresh 48 session for when their daughter arrived, and I invited them to come drop by the studio to meet with me in advance. The studio is in Grant Park close to Zoo Atlanta, so it's an easy drive for most of my clients since it's right off of I-20! While meeting me before your session is not a requirement, I really love the chance to meet with my families before their baby arrives. Would you rather have a total stranger show up, or someone you've already met before and are comfortable with? It's also a great opportunity to ask questions and for me to run through what the Fresh 48 session will be like.

When sweet little Frances arrived, Liz sent me a text letting me know. She opted to have me come the next day rather than the same afternoon which is usually the norm. Most moms would like a chance to recover a little bit from childbirth and take a shower, freshen up, etc. When I arrived, Frances was sound asleep and I marveled over her adorable little button nose and how cute she was!

Fresh 48 sessions are shot in a documentary lifestyle way. This means I show up and while I will move some items out of the way to avoid a cluttered background, I don't pose your baby. Most families opt to keep their baby wrapped in the iconic hospital blanket with the hospital hat, and moms will bring a robe from home to wear if they don't want to be in a hospital gown. If you can't get up out of the bed, no problem! I work around you. Many first time parents are also a little bit nervous about handling their new baby since they might not have had a whole lot of practice. Also totally ok! I work with so many new families every week, so I'm used to this. I'll work with you at your comfort level to create beautiful images of this fleeting time in your lives. I truly love working with new parents and being a source of encouragement and support in any way that I can during the session. I'm a mother of three children, and I was once where you soon will be. It's amazing, and beautiful, and I'm so excited for all of my clients embarking on this wild and crazy adventure of parenthood. There's no turning back, your life will never be the same...and you'll never want it any other way. And with a Fresh 48 session, you'll be able to look back to where it all began when your baby was the tiniest little peanut and remember it all. 

Fresh 48 sessions are limited! We are fully booked for certain due date windows already in 2017 and 2018, so please contact us soon if you would like information on reserving your 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 | Grady

Alexandra contacted us informing us that her baby boy was almost three weeks old and wanted to know if that was too late to schedule a newborn session. She didn't think she would want newborn photos, but quickly changed her mind when she realized how fast Grady was changing and that he would only stay this little forever in photographs.

I was pleased to inform her that we have "older" newborns all the time and that we had an opening for them.  We take a limited number of guaranteed newborns each month, but often have last minute availability since babies arrive on their own timeline! That opening happened to be the same day as the day they were attending a wedding, so Alexandra was thrilled that her hair and makeup service add on with Megan would get some extra mileage that day! 

Another concern that Alexandra had was that she described themselves as a casual couple who love to wear jeans and Chuck Taylors and she wasn't much of a dress person. I told her I embrace personal style and that I encourage clients to look like themselves in photographs. So, if wearing the studio wardrobe is not for you, then wear your own clothing! Our newborn prep guide gives you guidelines for the best color palette and I'll help pull the best cohesive look together when you arrive. Many of my clients opt to wear their own clothing and just bring multiple selections from their closet along with them. So if jeans and a casual shirt is your preference, please, by all means wear it. There's no rule that you have to wear a dress or a button down shirt. I want my clients to feel comfortable and relaxed, and look at their images and see themselves. We'll work together to achieve that! 

Grady was the SWEETEST little boy with the poutiest lips and squeezable cheeks. I loved chatting with Alexandra and Evan during the session. Evan had to leave at a certain time to attend a luncheon for the men in the wedding, and we accommodated that need. We are flexible to work the session around dads since many of them sometimes need to be in and out in a half an hour. We've had LOTS of dads arrange to stop in at their lunch break since that was the only time they could get away. If you have schedule restrictions, be sure to let us know so we can best advise you and plan for your session. 

Here are a few of my favorite images from Grady'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 Family & Baby Photographer | A mommy and me session in the park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Atlanta Newborn Photographer | Jace

I last saw Jace and his family the day after he was born at his Fresh 48 session.  Rashida had decided to add on hair and makeup services with Megan, so arrived at the studio with Jace and settled into the hair and makeup chair with Megan. Because the family lives in the same Grant Park neighborhood that my studio is in, daddy and big brother Jaiden stayed home until it was time to join us.

With Rashida in the hair and makeup chair, I set to work photographing baby Jace for his newborn solo portraits. I mentioned in my previous post about Jaces' Fresh 48 session that he had piano player fingers...I wasn't kidding. Check out how long his perfect little fingers are! 

As I was wrapping up, the other men of the family arrived and we started with sibling images. Jaiden borrowed a causal grey t-shirt from my studio wardrobe for little boys, and his mama chose a lace dress that she loved.  Jaiden was SO cute with his baby brother and so excited to be a part of the session! Older preschool age kids are usually lots of fun to work with and active participants. 

We then moved to family and parent images, which are always my favorite. While I will always try to get one traditional family portrait of everyone looking and smiling, that's not the goal. When you look at your images, I want you to see yourself as a family who loves each other and enjoys being together. And trust me, that's so easy to accomplish when all you have to do is be yourselves! 

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.

Jace | A Fresh 48 Session at Atlanta Medical Center

Rashida called the studio to find out more about The Birth Session. When she learned that we were fully booked for the rest of the year, she decided that a Fresh 48 session would be a good fit for them. I invited her to the studio to meet, and she dropped in. We talked about what to expect, and the process, and after seeing the studio, she decided she wanted to book a newborn session as well! 

Rashida's baby was a stubborn little thing, and after a lengthy induction, he finally joined the family! We arranged for my arrival at Atlanta Medical Center to take place shortly before big brother so that I could photograph the new baby alone and with his parents since kids have shorter attention spans. 

When I arrived, I learned they had not yet named their new son. They did eventually settle on Jace before they departed from the hospital to go home! He had a full head of hair, pouty lips, and piano player fingers. When big brother Jaiden arrived with his grandparents, it was so neat to see the look of wonder on his face. Jaiden is four, and it reminded me of when my oldest daughter met her baby brother for the first time. A little unsure at first, and then all in! 

Welcome to the family, Jace! Check back in a couple of days to see Jaces' 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 Maternity Photographer | Myka & Navarro

I've known Myka for quite some time, but don't see her often. One day I was in my bank and noticed her sitting in a chair waiting for her appointment with one of the bankers. I said hello and found out that she was pregnant! She asked me for recommendations on care providers, and I told her where I went (Intown Midwifery delivering at Atlanta Medical Center). 

Months went by, and one day an email from her popped into my inbox. She let me know that she had tried taking some of her own maternity photos, but decided that an expert would be the better way to go. We talked about her vision for the session and what she was planning to wear (she had an amazing caftan from Jen's Pirate Booty that she'd picked up from a boutique in L.A.) and settled on the field as the best location for the overall feel and look she envisioned. 

I met Myka & Navarro at the field on a very hot evening in August, and got right to work. I LOVE this session because of the laughter and the authentic emotion captured between the two of them. You can't fake this kind of connection, and it's clear how much fun these two have together. The backlight from the sunset was also pretty amazing too. Myka and Navarro went on to have the most beautiful baby boy, three weeks before I had my son. I've since then had the pleasure of photographing him for his 6 month session and a Santa session, and he just keeps getting cuter! 

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 Hospital Photographer | Piedmont Hospital Fresh 48 Session

Liz & Isaac contacted me to inquire about Fresh 48 sessions and decided to book. They were having their little girl at Piedmont Hospital and very excited about it. I invited them to stop by the studio to meet with me in advance of their daughter's birth because I always like to meet my Fresh 48 clients in advance when possible. When you've just had a baby, you can feel very vulnerable and a stranger walking into your room to photograph you might not be something you're wild about. They stopped in, and we had a good conversation getting to know each other and about what to expect from their session. Liz let me know that she was in labor, and I waited to hear from her that Frances had been born. When she let me know, I asked if she wanted me to come that same day in the afternoon or the next morning. She decided the next morning would be better for her so that she could get some sleep and have a chance to refresh. 

When I arrived at the hospital, France was sleeping in her bassinet with her cute little hospital bow hat. I opened up the blinds and made a few changes to the room, and we got started. Fresh 48 sessions are EASY. They only require you to love your baby. Some first time parents have never held babies until their own, so they can be a little bit uncomfortable with it at first but we move slowly and take our time. I provide you with guided direction for natural interaction if you're a bit stumped on what to do. Being in front of a camera can sometimes make you freeze up and not know what to do, and I completely understand that and will work with you and your partner. Your resulting images will be natural and unforced and capture you and your baby exactly as you were in those first few days. When you look at them years from now, I want you to smile as you look at your baby's tiny features and remember how their head fit perfectly in the palm of your hand. You might even remember their perfect little baby smell and the way they sighed before a little smile twitched across their face. These moments are why I'm a photographer. There is no better job in the world than being able to freeze time and irreplaceable memories forever for families as they 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 Maternity Photographer | Ashlei & Brett, a studio session

Ashlei contacted me to schedule a studio maternity session. She didn't have time to come to the studio beforehand for a fitting since it was so last minute, so we decided we would just wing it as I knew I'd have plenty of options for her. I convinced her to model one of our new additions to the wardrobe (the long fitted gown with the tulle bottom) and she ended up loving it even though it wasn't one of her choices. Sometimes I know a client will look amazing in a specific dress that hasn't been worn yet and convince them to wear it for a couple extra images in their gallery. We are always getting new pieces in and sometimes retire older pieces if they're showing wear and tear. Dresses are always cleaned in between sessions - my dry cleaner  and I are on a first name basis! I love being able to show clients during maternity fittings what a dress looks like on an actual person since that can help them decide. 

Ashlei and Brett were so sweet and loving, and I loved working with them! Isn't she stunning? 

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 | Erin

As many clients do these days, Erin found me on Instagram. She told me she searched Atlanta maternity photographer and when she saw some of my images she knew I was exactly what she was looking for. She wanted gorgeous light out in a field, and emotional connection between her husband, toddler son, and unborn son. We scheduled her session and she chose her favorite dress from the studio wardrobe. When she arrived she was wearing some of the tallest platform wedges I had ever seen. I think she saw the look of surprise on my face, because she quickly informed me she knew these weren't the best choice for our shoot location but that the height difference between her husband and her was the reason she chose to wear them. To her credit, she had no problem walking the gravel path or in the field. I still suggest wearing closed toed shoes if at all possible for comfort and safety reasons though.

Fun fact: Erin and I had our sons on the same day a few weeks after her session! I had promised her that I would let her know when my baby arrived so I texted her that afternoon to let her know he was safely here. We didn't know what we were having until he was born. She responded to my text message to tell me that she was in labor at a different hospital! He was born before midnight that same day. So, she's the only client I've had that shares a birthday with one of my children! 

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 Photography | Hilary and company

Hilary was such a fun client to work with from the minute she stepped into the studio to look through the wardrobe. We were both pregnant, as this session took place in the fall of 2015! My little guy arrived before hers did, so we have fun talking about all things pregnancy and birth.

Hilary is so friendly and outgoing, and chose a bohemian cotton and lace Free People dress from the wardrobe. During her fitting, we also talked about ideas of what her husband and son could wear and what to expect during the session.

The evening of the session, we met out at the field and I met her adorable little guy and husband. When a toddler is involved, I always shoot mom and toddler and the whole family together first before sending dad and kid(s) off to play and have fun while I finish up with mom. As you can see, he was a little unsure at first, but once his mama started snuggling him he had the biggest grins. 

Dates for maternity and family sessions in the field are filling incredibly quickly with very limited weekend availability remaining - we are almost full for October at this point! Limited weeknight sessions are available though, so don't hesitate to contact us if you want to grab one of the last remaining dates. 

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 | Brooklyn, 10 days new

I first worked with Heather and her sweet little family for Heather's maternity session in the field, which can be viewed by clicking here. 

Heather arrived at the studio with Brooklyn and settled into the hair and makeup chair with Margaret. She worked with Margaret for her maternity session and loved the experience so much that she decided she had to work with her again. Adding on hair and makeup services saves you the stress of trying to get everyone ready in the morning. Sleep deprivation and exhaustion can also do a number on you, and our makeup artists are fabulous at making you look like you just slept for 12 hours! 

When Heather arrived, she chose a lace dress from the studio wardrobe to wear for the session. I started working with Brooklyn in the newborn shooting room while Heather was in the hair and makeup chair. Brooklyn needed to nurse midway through, and did so nestled up on our studio boppy while Margaret continued to work. Margaret works with newborn moms on the regular, and there is nothing we haven't seen. We work around the needs of your baby, and it's never a problem for you to nurse as needed!

As I was finishing up, daddy and big brother Spencer arrived and we moved to sibling shots. Most families arrange for older siblings to arrive later during the session so they don't go stir crazy sitting in the studio. It makes for a fun and relaxing experience for all involved! Spencer was such an attentive and sweet big brother to his new little sister. They're so lucky to have such loving and involved parents. 

Here are some favorites of little Miss Brooklyn and her doting family. 

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 Birth Photographer | Raphael

You know those families that you meet and you wonder if they can actually be real? They're always sweet, genuine, and positive, and exude love and kindness to everyone they come in contact with? This is one of those families... and while they'll be the first to tell you they aren't perfect, they are very much real. 

I was so excited to welcome this sweet family back to my studio for their newborn session. I had last seen them just a couple weeks prior at Raphael's birth, which was an incredibly emotional and powerful day that I was so honored to be a part of and document for them. I will never forget Emily holding Raphael in her arms singing "Happy Birthday" to him after he was born.  Prior to his birth, Emily and her daughter had worked with me for their studio maternity session, which can be viewed by clicking here. 

Matt and Emily both work in the coffee industry, and were gracious enough to bring me a cup of it. I'm sure it was crazily polluted to them since my coffee is always loaded with cream and sugar. People will jokingly ask me "Are you having any coffee with your sugar milk?" Yep, I'm serious. 

Emily looked through the studio wardrobe and fell in love with a bohemian printed dress from Free People. She loved it so much she told me that if I ever wanted to unload it, to call her first. Penelope also wore one of the dresses from our little girl wardrobe, and Matt wore his own clothing which he chose with the help of our newborn prep packet. Our prep packet is sent to all booked clients in advance of their session to help answer all the commonly asked questions and plan for the morning of. Clients who follow the prep packet (it's short and sweet!) have a much more relaxed session experience. 

Raphael was an easygoing little guy and was generous enough to flash a few grins during his session. Big sister Penelope was so proud and in love with her baby brother, and she was just so sweet and excited! 

Enjoy these photos of a family I'm lucky to know. 

If you're pregnant and looking for a newborn, birth, 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 | Christy & Chris

   Christy and I have known each other for a few years, but she's actually known my husband for much longer since they went to high school together!  Christy doesn't live in Atlanta, but in Charlotte, NC. She has followed my work on Instagram for a while and would tell me how sad she was that I didn't live closer for her photography needs. Luckily for Christy, my parents live in Charlotte, so I arrange to be in town every few months. I have a few locations that are my go to's for sessions. If you're in Charlotte and hoping for a maternity or family session in Charlotte rather than traveling to me in Atlanta, definitely contact me! 

   When Christy found out that I would be in Charlotte and had some availability to shoot her maternity session, she jumped at it. We kept our fingers crossed that it would all work out weather wise, and it turned out to be such a gorgeous evening with perfect light.

   Prior to her maternity session,  I asked which dresses she would be interested in from the wardrobe, and she told me to bring whatever I thought would work for her. I brought 5 dresses with me, and we ended up using 3 of them, all of which she looked absolutely gorgeous in. Her husband, Chris was such a sweetheart and is also a photographer as well. I enjoyed working with them both and their willingness to lay down in the field together at the very end after the sun had almost disappeared. When I asked "How do you feel about being on the ground?" they both said, "We'll do anything you ask us to do, because we know the results will be worth it!" High praise, and I don't take that kind of trust lightly. Clients who are willing to trust me and step out of the box just a little bit are my favorite kind.  

Here are just a few of my favorites from the fun evening in the field! 

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 | Remiii's Fresh 48 at Waters Pavilion, Piedmont Hospital

The last time I saw this little guy was at his parents' studio maternity session. They booked a Fresh 48 session to take place at Piedmont Hospital in the Waters Pavilion, and a newborn session. A lot of clients ask if there's that big of a difference between Fresh 48 and newborn. The answer is YES. Fresh 48 sessions take place in the hospital during daylight hours before discharge to go home. Babies are photographed just as they are, in their little hospital hat and iconic blanket. The session is about 45 minutes to an hour, and captures your family and baby as they are in a documentary style. I do give new families some guided direction if they aren't quite sure what to do!  Some moms like to get out of bed, while others prefer to stay in bed. You'll know what time I'm coming that day, so you'll have a chance to get a shower and freshen up. Your baby will usually be less than 48 hours old, and it's amazing how quickly they change in mere days and in the first couple of weeks. Many clients who have chosen to do both a Fresh 48 and newborn session have commented how amazed they were by the changes between the two sessions when they look at their images. 

Remiii was named after his daddy, so the REM are his initials, and the iii is for the third. I thought it was such a unique nickname and quite clever as well. Since he was sleeping in his bassinet when I arrived, I started the session with solo images while his mother freshened up a bit. He opened his eyes for me a couple of times, and had a very steady gaze. It was so sweet to watch his parents with him, admiring all of his little features. For those of you reading this who haven't had your own children yet...the first few weeks are filled with just starting in awe at the little human being you created. Trust me. Everything about your new baby is amazing, unique, and super adorable. One of my favorite things about sessions is that your baby will someday see YOUR reaction to them. They'll see that awe and love pouring out from your eyes and smiles as you hold them and talk softly to them. It's the beginning of the rest of your life, and theirs. 

Image of a sleeping, African American, baby, boy, in his hospital bassinet, wrapped in a blanket with his hands under his chin. 

Horizontally stacked images of a sleeping, African American, infant, newborn, boy, sleeping in his hospital bassinet. 

Image of an African American, infant, newborn, baby, boy with his eyes open, laying in his hospital bassinet. 

Side by side images. The first image is of an African American man, holding his wife, who is holding their sleeping, newborn, baby, son. The second image, is of an African American woman, cradling her sleeping, newborn, son.  

Image of an African American woman, sitting in a hospital bed with playing with her newborn, baby, son. 

Side by side images. The first image, is a close up of an African American, sleeping, baby, newborn, infant boy half smiling. The second image, is of the African American parents smiling down at their newborn son. 

Image of African American parents,  holding their sleeping newborn son in their arms in front of a window. 

Side by side images of African American parents holding their sleeping newborn son on their shoulders. 

Side by side images of an African American, sleeping, newborn, baby, boy with his parents hands on him.

Image collage of newborn, toes, eyelashes, profile and a yawn. 

Side by side images of an African American man holding his sleeping newborn son. In the first image, he is holding him to his chest. In the second image, he is holding his son in his hands. 

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 Child Photographer | Rylee & Ross

Courtney and her family are long term clients of mine that I just love. I photographed the day of her son's birth as well as his newborn session. They came back in to the studio for some portraits to celebrate Ross turning one. The session was originally supposed to be a First Birthday session, but unfortunately Ross had an allergic reaction to an antibiotic which caused the session to have to be rescheduled. The reschedule date ended up being almost two months later because of their travel schedule, so Courtney decided to have it be a regular portrait session with no cake involved. Her goal for the session was for me to capture the unique personalities of her two children. Ross was quite the busy bee who had recently started walking. He ran all over the studio, jumped on the bed, played with toys, and was adorable. Courtney had showed up from the gym, so was not dressed to participate in the session. Because Ross was all over the place, I asked if she would mind putting on one of the studio dresses and holding Ross so that we could get him to be still for a little while. She agreed, and I loved the results. 

Big sister Rylee was just as adorable and sweet. I had a lot of fun photographing her... with her wispy curls and big brown eyes, what's not to love?! 

Here are just a few of my favorites from this sibling session. I can't wait to get them in front of my lens again soon! 

**this session was photographed before the installation of white studio floors**

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

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

Atlanta Newborn Photographer | Ross, 10 days new

Happy Fourth of July! It happens to be my FAVORITE holiday of the year. I love the fireworks, the spirit of patriotism, and the sense of community in the family and neighborhood gatherings all over the country. 

We are so busy at the studio, that blogging sometimes doesn't happen for a while after sessions take place. This particular session.... well, it's two years after! It still remains one of my favorites, and this family is such a special one. Courtney and James contacted me initially for a VERY last minute consultation for The Birth Session. We all hit it off during the consult, and they decided to book both The Birth Session and a newborn session. They had not done this with their first baby, and were disappointed that they hadn't. The only newborn photos they had of her were the hospital photos which, as Courtney put it: "Are sweet, and something we will always treasure no matter what...but just aren't very good!". I think she put it well. You'll never regret having a photo of your baby even if it's not that great quality wise...but if you could choose a great photo of your baby that was also one you found beautiful, wouldn't you? 

Working with this family was so much fun, and so special. They really have a lot of fun together, and it shows. Rylee was enamored with her little brother, and I was able to capture some of the sweetest sibling moments between them. They are still the best of friends to this day. You can check back in tomorrow to see how they've grown.

 Here are a few of my favorites from their newborn session as a 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 Maternity Photographer | Sara & Jason

Oh Sara, where do I begin? Sara was never supposed to be able to have children, and was a very high risk pregnancy. She fought through it all, and did it with a smile on her face. Her fortitude and positivity are absolutely amazing, and I consider myself a better person to know her. 

When Jason contacted us to schedule a maternity session, he told us their amazing story and that they were expecting a little girl named Mila Raven. They initially wanted a field session, but her doctors advised her that being outdoors and walking in the heat wasn't a good idea with her health issues. So, she elected to shoot in the studio instead. She fell in love with two dresses from our studio wardobe and a flower crown, and decided to book HMUA add on services with Margaret. 

When I arrived at the studio, Margaret was finishing up, and we got started. It was so much fun working with Sara and Jason and seeing how excited they were for their miracle baby, I loved getting to photograph this special time in their life and getting to know them as well. Mila arrived safely and will be ONE in less than two weeks. Sara is still fighting through health issues with a smile on her face, and inspiring everyone else around her. Send all your prayers and/or good vibes their way and follow her story on Instagram at sassysarasmile. 

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

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 | Mandy & Jaqai

Jaqai contacted me when his wife was in the first trimester to ask about maternity session information. He knew he wanted to surprise her with a session and was gathering up information before booking. Weeks went by, and then months...so I put Jaqai's email in my archived folder and assumed I wouldn't hear from him again.

I was wrong. An email from Jaqai popped up in my inbox asking if he could book a session for his wife. He apologized for the last minute notice and explained they'd been pretty busy renovating their home and getting ready for their baby. I had last minute availability, so I had them come into the studio for a maternity fitting a few days before their session. Mandy chose to wear one of our maternity wraps and then a form fitting maternity gown which looked amazing on her. Jaqai initially insisted that he didn't want to be in any of the photographs, but with a little sweet talking, I convinced him to be in a few. At the very least, if your husband only wants to be in ONE photo, we can shoot the classic partners cradling the belly with no faces shown. 

We had a lot of fun during their session, and they went on to welcome a beautiful baby boy who I had the pleasure of meeting when they came by the studio to pick up their maternity print. 

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

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.