Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Priscilla & Steve

Priscilla and Steve moved here from Austin, Texas and found me on Instagram. Come follow me if you haven't already! Priscilla stated that she was looking for a very specific style and didn't want a photographer who relied on a lot of heavy post processing. Her husband, Steve, is very proficient with Photoshop, so they can tell by looking at an image how heavily it's been edited to look the way it does. 

The two came into the studio for their maternity fitting and to discuss the newborn session process. After seeing the studio and visiting with me, they decided to book for newborn as well. I was super excited because they are just some of the most genuine and kind people that I've ever met and I knew they were going to be a lot of fun. Priscilla had been worried that we wouldn't have anything that would fit her because she's very petite in size. The shortest client that we have ever had in the studio was 4'11", so more petite sizes aren't a problem! Dresses are pinned, and with maternity sessions it doesn't look unusual to have a dress flowing on the ground. I think it just adds to the whole beauty of it! We'll make sure that whatever we choose for you doesn't swallow you up in fabric if you're shorter. 

Priscilla elected to add on hair and makeup services (wait until you see her amazing hair that Margaret styled!) and chose her favorite dress from the studio wardrobe along with a cream shawl. We met at the studio and then headed down the street to the park location. It was an overcast and grey day, but it looked absolutely perfect with the tones of the season and their wardrobe choices.

Looking at these images makes me smile because of what wonderful people Priscilla and Steve are and how much they love each other.  I love when couples are in love and not afraid to show it. It makes my job just a little bit easier! ;) Next up on the blog will be their son's newborn session.... one of the cutest babies ever with an enviable head of hair! 

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

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

Atlanta Newborn Photographer | Baby Ian

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Elaine

Anyone else freezing cold this week? I'm yearning for the warmer days of spring and summer and thought it was a perfect time to share this maternity session from the past summer. It makes me feel warmer just looking at the images! 

Elaine came from Charlotte, North Carolina (where I was raised!) for her maternity session in the field. She was quite a busy lady during her last trimester of pregnancy, attending my alma mater (UNC-Charlotte) and hoping to finish up before her baby arrived. She came into town for a long weekend and stopped by the studio to look at different options. 

Let's be clear about something! Clients do NOT have to wear something from the studio wardrobe. It's there as an option for clients, but it's not required in the least. We have a variety of sizes (0-14/16) and styles that range from bohemian to glam. Elaine was drawn to a more casual look but wasn't sure what that actually looked like. When she put on taupe this jersey t-shirt dress, she knew it was the perfect dress for her. (it has POCKETS!) Since Elaine was on the shorter side, we tied the dress up to keep it from dragging and to make it easy for her to walk. She paired it with some gorgeous gold sandals and mixed metal bangles, and she looked fabulous. Elaine actually loved the dress so much that she ordered it for herself in several different colors. 

The day of her session, she worked with Margaret for her hair and makeup add on service. Elaine already had eyelash extensions, so none were applied. Margaret did a beautiful job keeping the makeup classic and clean beauty to work well with the overall look that Elaine had chosen.

When we met at the field, I met her husband, J and immediately complimented him on his cool hair. He was a fun guy and eager to participate. The two of them were so cute together, and he had no problem accepting my invitation to whisper goofy things in her ear to make her laugh. I always wonder what my client husbands are saying to their wives.... I'll never know though! It makes the images that much more special to clients to be the only ones who truly knew what was happening and being said. ;) 

Here's just a few images from their gorgeous sunset field session! We're already booking late spring and early summer outdoor sessions. As a note, these sessions always begin one hour before sunset. We do not shoot at the field location on weekdays when the days are shorter because of horrific traffic, but we do shoot there on both weekdays and weekend days when sunset is at 8:30 PM or later.  Our field sessions are the most popular, bar none - so if you want to get on the calendar before it's fully booked, contact us sooner rather than later! 

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

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

Atlanta Newborn Photographer | Baby Olivia

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

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

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

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

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

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

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Monica & Ravi

Monica contacted the studio to schedule both a maternity and newborn session, and chose the park location. She came into the studio for her maternity session, and I immediately liked her hilarious sense of humor. We had a good time chatting and getting to know each other, and she chose two dresses for her session. 

The day of her session, I arrived at the studio and found Monica sitting in the hair and makeup chair with Megan at the helm. I introduced myself to her husband, Ravi and let him know what to expect over the next hour. Once Monica was finished, she slipped into her first dress and we headed down the street to the park location to get started.  The day was very cloudy and overcast, but had such beautiful and soft diffused light. This is usually the case on overcast days, which is why I love shooting then just as much as I do when the sun is out! 

Working with the two of them was lots of fun! Monica was very comfortable in front of the camera, and Ravi needed a little time to get warmed up. It didn't take him long, and I loved moving around and photographing the little moments between the two of them.

At nearly the end of our time together, the sun broke through the clouds and made an appearance. It was quite low in the sky, so I placed them over by one of the giant trees to finish out our session, and absolutely adore the results. There's nothing like beautiful golden sun drenched bokeh. The next post on the blog will be of Monica and Ravi's newborn session with their beautiful little girl, Olivia! Come back to check it out for yourself! 

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.

Happy Holidays from Lily Sophia Photography!

We'll be taking a short break from the blog for the month of December in order to spend time with our families and enjoy the season. We hope you have a wonderful and magical holiday season!

Regular blog and Instagram posts will resume after the New Year in January, so check back then!

In the meantime, we're still working behind the scenes (just at a lighter pace) through the New Year, so don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or booking inquiries via phone or our website. 

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

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

Atlanta Newborn Photographer | Baby Ella Mary Claire

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

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

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

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

Enjoy some of my favorite images of sweet Ella's newborn session! 

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

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

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Analy & Jose (and Frida!)

I am always honored when someone chooses to work with me to document one of the most special times in their life. I am always blown away when another photographer chooses to entrust these moments to me, and have worked with many photographers over the last few years. Analy is one of these, and I'm so pleased to call her a friend after having worked with her. 

Analy came to the studio for a fitting and told me that she already had a black lace dress that she wanted to wear, but knew she wanted something in a lighter color. She found the perfect white lace off the shoulder dress, and we were all set. 

The evening of their session, we met at the field, and I met their little furbaby, Frida.  Analy pulled out some hairpieces that she had found while out shopping at the mall earlier that week to see what I thought. We chose two of the ones she had brought along for her to wear during the session and I thought they added just the perfect touch to her dresses and hairstyle.

Analy's husband, Jose was just the sweetest guy but admitted that he didn't like being in front of the camera or having his photo taken. If this is also your husband, please know that you're not alone!  The vast majority of my clients have a partner just like yours. The good news? I'm an expert at working with guys who don't really love the whole photo experience, and I know how to make it a lot easier and a lot less painful. In fact, most guys tell me afterwards that they actually had fun. Your man will not be on bended knee kissing your belly, he will not be placing his hands over your belly in the shape of a heart, and he will not be made to feel like a ridiculous photo prop. I can promise you all those things. 

Analy also chose to dress Jose in two outfits, and I loved what she chose! I thought he looked amazing in his suit and that it was the perfect choice to complement her black dress. They then changed to a bit more casual of a look for her white lace dress. Both are equally beautiful looks, and Frida rounded it all out with her cute little pink bow. 

Here are a few of my favorite images from their session - we had so much fun, and it's evident by their laughter and genuine smiles. They have since welcomed an absolutely beautiful and sweet little baby girl and are enjoying parenthood!  

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

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

Atlanta Newborn Photographer | Ava & Addison, fraternal twins

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

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

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

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

I loved working with this sweet family, and can't wait to see them all again in a couple of months for their First Birthday session! 

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

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

Atlanta Newborn Photography | Baby Kirin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Jesse & Suleka

Suleka contacted us to book a maternity session in the field and a newborn session. She chose to work with one of our HMUA's for add on hair and makeup services. Suleka came to the studio with Jesse for a styling appointment and we had a good time chatting and getting to know one another as she tried on options. They let me know that they wanted to include their parents in some of the maternity images, which I thought was lovely! Their sweet pup, Gigi also made an appearance as you'll see below.

The day of the session, Suleka let me know that she had fallen in love with a grey dress of her own and wanted to wear it for her session.  The dress was gorgeous and was unfortunately sold out, so I wasn't able to snag one and add it to the studio wardrobe. 

It was also an overcast day, which many clients worry about. It's a myth that you need bright sun for beautiful images. Overcast days create some of the most beautiful even light which result in gorgeous tones. The look is different than a clear and sunny evening, but it's special in its own way. I love both, and shoot regardless of sun or clouds. The only time I reschedule sessions is if there is inclement weather. 

We started with including the entire family together and then moved on to just Suleka and Jesse. They were so sweet together - Jesse is such a caring and concerned husband. Come back tomorrow to see their son's newborn session!  

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

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

Atlanta Newborn Photographer | Baby Josephine

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

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

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

Enjoy the images of this adorable family! 

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

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

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Shola & Olu, expecting TWINS!

Shola contacted us after being convinced by a friend not to skip images documenting her pregnancy. She fell in love with the portfolio on our website, and contacted us to see if we could fit her in for a maternity session. We set up a styling appointment and she had lots of fun trying on dresses and choosing the two to wear for her maternity session. We discussed what her husband should plan to wear for the session, and went over what to expect. She let me know that her husband was quite taller than her, and I assured her that's never a problem.  If you have a significant height or size difference, you will not be made to feel like it's unusual or that it's a problem. I don't ask people to hunch over or minimize themselves because I think that's silly and inauthentic.

Shola opted to add on hair and makeup services and worked with our lead HMUA, Margaret. Olu joined us right as Margaret was finishing up, and we got started. The two of them were so much fun to work with and Olu kept Shola giggling throughout. 

All session images are delivered in both color and black and white. I adore the black and white edits of this maternity session, so I'm sharing just those for this post. 

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 | Adeline is ONE!

I first worked with Adeline's parents for their maternity session in the field and then again for Adeline's newborn session. When Carolyn came to the studio to pick up their newborn collection, she told me they were moving to NYC! I was so sad to say goodbye to them as clients....except we didn't say goodbye! I was able to photograph Adeline for her six month session in NYC and then again for her 1 year session on Long Island. My travel is limited to certain areas, but I DO travel for clients, and loved doing this for this sweet family. 

Carolyn and I exchanged a few emails discussing what to wear, and met up in July on Long Island. New York was going through a crazy cold snap when it was only 70 degrees outside at the time! I can't say that I was mad about it, because it made our session weather very pleasant and we didn't have to deal with hot muggy weather or bugs. 

We started our session with family and parent images and then plopped Adeline down on the ground to enjoy her cake! She showed off some of her standing skills and dove right in. First Birthday sessions can take place in any of our outdoor locations rather than in the studio. We suggest bringing a towel, lots of baby wipes, a jug of water, and washcloths. The cleanup for Adeline was pretty minor, but we've had babies COVERED in icing afterwards. :) 

I can't wait to travel to see this family again in 2018! 

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

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

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Tiffany & Logan at the park

Have I mentioned that we have a lot of last minute clients? We do. I've lost count of how many clients have called us at 37-38 weeks pregnant and told us that they didn't think they wanted maternity photos, or that they had put it off, and then they stumbled across our website and saw that we frequently take last minute clients.

Tiffany was one of these clients. She and her husband met later in life, and their pregnancy was something they were very excited about. We scheduled her to come in for a maternity fitting and had an opening a couple of days later for a park session. If you're someone who waited until the last minute, know that your chances of being able to book a session are much higher if you're able to shoot on a weekday. Weekend days typically book up months in advance especially months when we have beautiful weather here in Atlanta. 

The day of their session, we met at the studio for Tiffany to change into her first dress choice and I went through the options that Logan had brought with him to quickly style his outfits. Tiffany showed me her jewelry options, and I assisted in choosing the best pieces for each of her dresses.  After that, we then headed down the street to the park and got started. The light was absolutely magical that evening, Tiffany was glowing and so happy, and we all had a wonderful time. 

Enjoy some of my absolute favorite images from this park maternity session below! 

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 Photography | Emma is ONE!

I first worked with Emma's parents for their maternity session, and then again for Emma's newborn session and have really enjoyed getting to know them over the past year and a half. They are such warm and wonderful people, and Emma is such a sweetheart who looks JUST like her mama! Yetsie chose to work with our HMUA team just as she did for her other sessions, and also worked with our private baker who is located near the studio for Emma's smash cake. When you choose to work with our baker, the cake is ready and waiting for you at the studio so you don't have to worry about the hassle of picking it up and transporting it. 

Emma's mom had ordered a darling little dress from an Etsy shop for her first birthday portraits. We always start sessions with family and parent images so babies and children can become comfortable with me. We then photograph just your baby alone and end with some cake smashing fun.

I really love when parents decide to get in on the fun during a cake smash! It's hilarious, and babies love to share. Icing may end up everywhere, but it's the end of the session, so it doesn't matter. I want you to look back on your images and smile when you remember how much fun all of you had that day. 

It's never too early to book your baby's First Birthday session! Many of our newborn clients reserve their date right after their baby's newborn session. 50% of our parents like to plan the session to take place on their baby's actual birthday. 25% prefer beforehand to use images for party decor, and others prefer afterwards. It's your choice! PS: you don't HAVE to include a birthday cake smash as part of your session, but 95% of clients do. We have a lot of clients tell us that their baby was completely underwhelmed with their cake at the party or simply wouldn't touch it. I think it's pretty normal for a one year old to take a look at a large group of people staring at them, feel the pressure, and decide they want nothing to do with it. In the studio, it's just us, and there is no pressure. Everything unfolds naturally, and sweet memories are made. 

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 Maternity Photographer | Alison & Sean

Alison was one of our very last minute clients... she called the studio phone and we booked a time for her to come in the very next day for her maternity fitting. Are maternity fittings necessary? Well.... yes and no. I strongly believe in getting to know my clients before photographing them, and the maternity fitting is an excellent way to do that. Even if a client isn't planning to borrow from the wardrobe, they still usually schedule time to come in with what they're planning to wear so that I can offer suggestions and input. When it comes time for me to have a camera in my hand, my clients are SO much more comfortable in front of it. This means we spend less time warming up during your actual session and you look comfortable and relaxed much sooner. Sometimes we simply don't have time to do a fitting - especially when we have an out of town client. In those cases, I ask clients to arrive earlier than they normally would for their session so that we still have some time to chat.

Let me be really honest here....if you're looking for a photographer who doesn't want to get to know you at all and wants to treat your entire experience like a business transaction, I'm not the right photographer for you. My business focuses on relationships and I genuinely care about my clients. Don't worry, I won't ask your to tell me your entire life story or expect for us to be BFF's, but we won't be strangers either.

Alison and Sean came in the day after her fitting for their studio maternity session, and while Alison changed into her first outfit, Sean and I chatted and I filled him in on what to expect. Alison was a little bit nervous and told me she didn't really know what to do. I reassured her that very few of my clients do, and that's totally okay. It's my job to walk you through your entire session experience, and I will tell you exactly what to do and step in to adjust you as necessary for the most flattering angles and beautiful images. I'm a very hands on photographer, so an adjustment means that I'll step over and gently turn your body or move your arm to where I need it to be. It beats me standing feet away repeatedly saying "A little to the left... no, to the right.... now a little bit higher.... and over to the left again..." Nobody has time for that, and you don't need the stress of trying to listen to instructions and adjust based on vague verbal direction. 

I loved working with Alison and Sean, and was so excited for them when they welcomed their baby just a couple of weeks later! Here are some of my favorite images from their studio maternity session. 

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

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

Atlanta Newborn Photographer | Baby Leo

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

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

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

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

Enjoy a few of the images from Leo's newborn session! 

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

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

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | A Family Field session

Jessica came to the studio for her maternity fitting, and was a bit worried we wouldn't have anything that would fit her since she's all of 5'1". Our shortest client has been 4'11", so we are used to it! With maternity sessions, it doesn't look strange for our gowns to pool around the feet on the ground, and we do have a few options that are shorter as well for clients to borrow from. Jessica and I were laughing as we went through the wardrobe together because she personally owned many of the pieces that I have! She chose two dresses for herself, and we went through our little girls' wardrobe for options for her older daughter. Jessica also chose to work with Margaret for her hair and makeup for her session. 

On the evening of their session, I brought along several choices for her daughter to look through and she chose one of them, which looked so sweet on her. We have a smaller studio wardrobe for little girls that range from 6 months to 7/8 years of age.  So if your little girl wants to wear beautiful dress, and you don't want to deal with shopping for one, check out our options for her and you just might find something perfect! 

The whole family was so loving and sweet to one another and made my job easy. I love for families to be who they are together, and will provide some guided direction for natural interaction between you. Then I stand back and photograph what unfolds. Every family looks different in how they express their affection for each other. I want your images to be genuine and authentic, not filled with stuffy poses and forced smiles. Who wants that?!  

We took some time during their session for some father and daughter images too - as a mom with two little girls who think their daddy hung the moon, I know how special this relationship is. I hope that someday when Scarlett is my age, she looks at these pictures of dancing with her daddy and hugging him tight and smiles. Listen closely: moments like these are why I love what I do. Being able to freeze these moments and turn them into something tangible to be treasured forever is what Lily Sophia Photography is about. 

Without further ado, here are some of my favorites from their session! 

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

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

Atlanta Baby Photographer | DJ is ONE!

DJ is one of my spunkiest and happiest little clients. I absolutely love seeing him and his beautiful mother in the studio! Senika booked a one year session with him, and brought along a banner and little outfit for him to include in the cake smash portion.

Senika opted to borrow a dress from the studio wardrobe, and sent over ideas of what she was considering for DJ's outfits. I think the outfit she chose for him is just darling, and completely timeless too! We always start our sessions with family and parent images to get your baby comfortable with me and the sound of the camera. When they're in your arms they feel safe and secure and naturally open up to me as we progress through the session. We then move to baby only portraits, and then end with the cake smash. Senika had actually forgotten her cake, so a quick run to Kroger solved that problem. I always strongly recommend a small and simple cake... and as we learned from this session - best to skip the edible chocolate candles lest your baby be most interested in eating that instead of their cake! :) 

Enjoy the cuteness of this little guy's session ... I can't help but smile every time I see his mischievous little grin and that little twinkle in his eye. 

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.