Atlanta Family Photographer | The H Family at the park

When Erica contacted us, she let us know that a friend of hers had suggested our studio to her for a maternity/family and newborn session. She was pregnant with baby #3: a third little boy!!!

Erica hadn't had the best experience with previous photographers, and was hoping this time would be different. We hear this a lot from our clients, and I think it's just so sad. I know what a huge effort it is to get your entire family ready for family portraits and to have the experience be lackluster has to be so disappointing.

When I asked what had happened previously that made her say that, she told me that the photographers hadn't given tips or feedback during their sessions to make sure that her hair was in place or that she was in a flattering position. I'll be the first to say it: family photography can be hectic because you have multiple people and a lot to keep track of during. I always start my sessions with three very simple "rules" for parents and we eliminate most of the problems with self inflicted double chin that way. ;) She wanted to book a session with the focus mainly being on family rather than maternity, so we scheduled one at the park. She opted to wear clothing from their own closets, so we sent over our styling guide which is so incredibly easy to follow! Lots of our clients report that it takes the stress out of planning and makes the process of dressing their families so much easier and actually enjoyable. I am always here to give input or suggestions on wardrobe as well, and it is never a bother to assist my clients! I want your entire experience to be wonderful, and will give you as much help as you desire. 

The family knew they didn't want to drive far from their home in intown Atlanta, so I suggested the park location as it was a short distance from their home. When Erica and her family arrived, I couldn't get over how cute her sons Hayden and Xander were! Erica let me know that Xander was shy and didn't like strangers. I thanked her for letting me know this information, and kept my distance until I could see he was comfortable with me. By the end of the session, I was holding Xander in one arm and shooting with the other. I think it's safe to say that I won him over. We spent time playing games during our session, and the boys absolutely loved running through the park with their parents. Dad and boys were a little bit surprised when I said, "Okay, now run!" But why not? Why not have FUN during your family portraits? When you're having fun, your bodies relax and the joy is evident in your eyes and your face. I'll take fun over boring and stuffy any day. What about you? 

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 | Logan is ONE!

I first worked with Adrienne and Dave for their studio maternity session, and then welcomed their son Logan to the studio for his newborn session just weeks later! Adrienne emailed after seeing some First Birthday sessions and asked if she could schedule one at the last minute. He had already celebrated his First Birthday earlier in the month, but I reassured her it wasn't too late at all! Their family had a very limited window of time, and we fortunately had an open spot during Adrienne's vacation week from work. 

While making arrangements for their session, Adrienne expressed concern to me that Logan might not handle his session well. She let me know that he had strong separation and stranger anxiety, and that he would often cry and become very upset. She was worried that he wouldn't smile and would cry the entire time. I reassured her that I don't rush through sessions, and I am very slow and measured with the babies who come into my studio. I assess each child's personality and keep my tones low, my movements slow, and let the child lead. I also let her know that we always start our First Birthday sessions with family and parent images. This allows babies to feel safe and secure in their parents' arms as they get used to the sound of my shutter and to my presence. 

Sure enough, Logan was very suspicious of me and did not want me to come near him. I respected his wishes and kept my distance. Adrienne and Dave demonstrated their trust in me to him by giving me hugs and talking to me. Logan warmed up to me after a while, and even cracked some smiles. By the end, we were good buddies and and Adrienne and Dave were absolutely amazed by how well it all went. They even decided to come back in December for Santa sessions... and guess what? With my techniques and by moving slow, Logan ended up sitting ON Santa's lap and didn't scream! :) 

Patience. That's the cornerstone of working with babies. You need a fountain of patience that never runs dry if you choose to work with tiny humans...and I have one. Nothing fazes me or stresses me out. If something isn't working, we'll switch gears and try something else. We will figure it out and keep your baby safe and comfortable too. 

I love Logan's big beautiful eyes and how much fun this family has together!

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

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

Atlanta Newborn Photographer | Baby Amira

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

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

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

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

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

Here are some of my favorites from this amazing family's session! 

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

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

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Jessica

Jessica booked her maternity and newborn sessions together, and let me know that she would be the only participant during her maternity session due to her husband's heavy work schedule. Maybe this is you and you're worried that booking a maternity session by yourself is just weird. Well, worry no more. We often have clients who either are single moms, have a deployed partner, or whose partner doesn't want to be in the session, or just can't make it work with their schedule. It's no biggie! We'll still have a lot of fun, promise!

Jessica also opted to add on hair and makeup services with Margaret for her maternity session, and came to the studio for her maternity fitting. She fell in love with one of our printed dresses - she actually loved it so much she asked where she could buy one for her own baby shower. Unfortunately, the print was a limited edition and is no longer made. She also chose a second dress as well, and we discussed which jewelry options would look best with each.

The day of her session was gorgeous and sunny. We met out at the field and I loved seeing what Margaret had created with Jessica's hair. Her hairstyles are always so visually interesting and beautiful, and her makeup... well, it's pretty much perfect. Some clients are apprehensive about working with a professional HMUA because they think they'll look too made up. Please remember that each client chooses the level of makeup - some prefer a more dramatic look than others. All of our fabulous HMUA's will work with you closely to create the best and most beautiful look for you while still retaining who you are and keeping your preferences in mind. 

Here are just a few of my favorite's from Jessica's time in the field with me! 

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 | Myra & John

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

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

Atlanta Newborn Photographer | Baby Luke

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

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

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

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

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

Atlanta 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.