Tips for Beautiful, Alert Baby Photos

Newborn sessions are often planned around sleepy, snuggly babies—but sometimes, they have other plans! Whether your little one is wide-eyed from the start or wakes mid-session, photographing an awake newborn can lead to some of the most captivating and personality-filled images. Awake newborn photos can truly capture these special moments.

As a professional newborn photographer in Tri-Cities, WA (Richland, Kennewick, and Pasco), I’ve learned to embrace those alert moments and turn them into something truly beautiful. In this blog, I’m sharing tips for how I approach photographing awake newborns. I will also cover what parents can expect and how we work together to keep the baby calm and happy throughout the session.

Why Awake Newborn Photos Can Be Magical

Many parents come in expecting those curled-up sleepy poses, but when the baby decides it’s time to be awake, I don’t see it as a problem—I see it as an opportunity. Awake newborns make eye contact, stretch, yawn, and show off their unique personalities. When done right, photographing awake newborns adds variety to your gallery. It captures a different side of your baby’s first days.

Tips for Awake Newborns Photos

1. Keep Baby Comfortable and Calm

When taking awake newborn photos my goal is always to keep them content. A full tummy, a warm studio, and gentle wrapping techniques can help keep your baby calm and relaxed—even when they’re wide awake. I use soothing motions, white noise, and swaddles that allow freedom of movement without overstimulation.

Sweet Owen was 2 weeks old when he made it to my studio in December, full of personality!

2. Use Simple, Safe Posing

Unlike posed shots on the table, awake newborns do best in secure, natural positions. I often begin on the trampoline or in a cozy basket. This way, the baby can safely stretch, move, and look around. This approach lets me capture their eyes, tiny gestures, and connection with the camera. Only photographing awake newborns can truly deliver this unique experience.

3. Focus on Eye Contact and Expression

One of the biggest perks of photographing an awake newborn is getting that sweet eye contact. When baby looks into the lens, toward a parent, the emotion and connection in the photo is unmatched. These shots make stunning black-and-whites, close-ups, and parent-baby images.

4. Be Flexible with Flow

In my sessions, I always follow the baby’s lead. Every newborn is different, and part of what I love about this work is adjusting to each baby’s cues and needs in real time. If your baby is awake at the start of the session, that’s completely fine. In fact, it’s often the perfect time to begin with wrapped images. Swaddling is one of the key components of the “3 S’s” of newborn soothing (swaddle, side/stomach position, and shushing). It helps babies feel secure and calm.

I typically start with wrapped poses because they give your baby the cozy comfort they’re used to from the womb, even when they’re awake and alert. Once they’re wrapped snugly, we can ease into gentle posing using props like a crate, bowl, Moses basket, or even the baby trampoline for those sweet top-down images.

When babies start to show signs of sleepiness, I’ll gently transition to classic sleepy poses—like the chin-on-hands pose or curled-up belly poses on the table. But it’s important to note that if your baby is especially alert or extra wiggly, we may skip certain table poses for safety reasons. I would never force a baby into a position they’re not ready for. Safety always comes first. I promise you—whether we get those traditional sleepy poses or not—you’ll still walk away with a gallery full of gorgeous, heartfelt images.

Awake newborn sessions are all about adapting in the moment and embracing the unexpected. Some of the most treasured portraits come from the in-between moments—the stretch, the yawn, the gaze straight into the camera. I’ve learned over the years that babies run the show, and I’m here to follow their rhythm and capture them exactly as they are.

Beautiful Maddie was 5 weeks old at her adorable session!

What Parents Should Know About Awake Newborn Sessions

If you’re nervous about your baby being awake during their session—please don’t worry. I completely understand the concern; it’s something I hear from parents all the time. But here’s the truth: awake babies are more common than you’d think, and it’s not a problem at all. In fact, some of my favorite sessions have included wide-eyed babies who were way too curious to sleep.

As a newborn photographer—and a former ER nurse —I’m always prepared for a little unpredictability. Newborns don’t always follow our plans, and that’s okay. I approach each session with flexibility and a calm, baby-led mindset. If your little one wants to stay awake, I work with that energy. As long as your baby is warm, well-fed, and being snuggled and soothed, we can still create beautiful, timeless images.

Some of the most memorable photos I’ve taken have been during these awake moments. I love capturing those bright, curious eyes and the tiny expressions that flash across their face—like the way they wrinkle their forehead, stretch their fingers, or stare up at their parents with complete fascination. These moments are fleeting, and seeing them frozen in a photo can be incredibly special.

The bottom line is: there’s no right or wrong way for your baby to be during their session. Awake or asleep, calm or wiggly—I’m here for it all. Whether your baby is peacefully snoozing or wide-eyed and alert, we will create images you’ll treasure forever.

Final Thoughts on Photographing Awake Newborns

Whether your baby is snoozing peacefully or bright-eyed and alert, every moment of your session is valuable. Awake newborn photos are just another way to document your baby exactly as they are—pure, present, and perfect.

If you’re looking for a newborn, baby milestone, or family photographer in the Tri-Cities area who’s experienced with awake and sleepy sessions alike, I’d love to connect. Every baby is unique, and your photos should be too.

Best Locations for Family Photography in Tri-Cities, WA

As a family photographer in Tri-Cities, WA, I specialize in capturing natural, timeless images using beautiful outdoor backdrops and natural light. Whether you have little ones full of energy or older kids who love to explore, choosing the right location for family photography in Tri-Cities WA, can make all the difference in creating stunning family portraits.

Here are my top four favorite outdoor locations for family photography in the Tri-Cities!

1. Twin Sisters Rock – A Breathtaking Overlook

By far my favorite location, Twin Sisters Rock located between Tri-Cities, WA and Walla Walla, WA offers incredible views of the Columbia River, golden hills, and an epic backdrop for your session. This spot requires a slight hike, but it’s completely doable with small children if you’re mindful of the edges. If you’re looking for a dramatic, one-of-a-kind setting for your family photos, this is the place to go. Sunset sessions here are absolutely magical, with golden light washing over the landscape.

? Best for: Families who love adventure and don’t mind a little hike for an epic view.

I photographed this beautiful couple at Twin Sisters Rock recently and it was such a stunning location! It was easy to capture their love, joy and playfulness- with both the gorgeous river and gorge as backdrops.

2. Chiawana Park – Versatile & Kid-Friendly for Family Photography in Tri-Cities WA

Chiawana Park in Pasco, WA is one of my top choices because of its versatility. It features river views, a boat dock, open grassy areas, rocks, and sandy spots—giving us plenty of variety in your gallery. It’s also a great place for kids to play, which allows me to capture natural, candid action shots of your little ones exploring, running, and just being themselves. If you want a mix of scenery and a laid-back session, Chiawana Park is a fantastic option.

? Best for: Families with small kids who want a relaxed session with lots of variety.

3. Benton City – Riverside & Rolling Hills Family Photos in Tri- Cities

Benton City is a hidden gem for family photography, offering beautiful riverside spots and stunning rolling hills. In the spring, the hills turn a gorgeous shade of green, creating a dreamy, natural backdrop. As the sun starts to set, the warm, golden light makes for breathtaking images. Whether we shoot near the Yakima River or up in the hills overlooking the valley, this location provides a peaceful, natural setting for your session.

? Best for: Families who love wide-open spaces, greenery in the spring, and stunning sunset views.

4. Finley – Golden Wheat Fields & Endless Skies

If you love the look of rolling hills and golden wheat fields, Finley, located just outside Kennewick, WA is an amazing spot—especially at sunset. The soft, warm tones of the landscape create timeless, glowing family portraits. This area is simple yet breathtaking, perfect for families who want a natural, classic backdrop for their photos.

? Best for: Families who love soft, golden tones and wide-open spaces for dreamy sunset shots.

Let’s Capture Your Family’s Story

No matter which location you choose, my goal is to create timeless, natural images that capture your family’s unique connection and love. If you’re looking for a family photographer in Tri-Cities, WA, who’s great with small kids and loves capturing outdoor moments, I’d love to work with you!

? Ready to book your session? Let’s plan the perfect family photoshoot in one of these beautiful Tri-Cities locations! Contact me today.

About Tawny

Tawny is an award winning newborn , baby, and family photographer based in Tri-Cities, WA, with a passion for capturing the precious first moments of life. With a background as an ER nurse specializing in caring for babies and hands-on mentoring from experienced photographers, Tawny brings a unique blend of skill and care to my sessions. Using natural light, simple setups, and beautiful photography to create heartfelt images of your baby’s earliest moments, she combines expertise and creativity to deliver stunning, safe, and timeless portraits.

Hey there! Are you wondering what happens once you arrive at my warm and cozy studio located in Kennewick, WA? This blog will give you the information for what to expect when it comes to newborn flow and poses when you book your session with me.
I have officially been an actual business for 1 year this month and I cannot believe it has flown by. I am still getting into the swing of things and perfecting how my newborn session flows, but I am getting there, and feeling more comfortable each session. After almost a year photographing newborns, here’s a look at how a typical newborn session flows when you book a session with me:

Newborn Session Flow & Poses: Trampoline Images

I begin with the baby on the trampoline, which is perfect for capturing close-up images. This is where I focus on those tiny, delicate details—little feet, hands, mouth, and eyelashes. Parents’ hands are often included in these shots, emphasizing how baby fit in their hands. This is my favorite image to capture at every session. Especially being a momma myself and now holding a 5 year old and 7 year old. Thinking back to how little they were and how time has flown is bittersweet.

Newborn Session Flow & Poses: Wrapping & Family Portraits

Next, our newborn session will flow into wrapped poses with family. If siblings are involved, I start with them first. Young siblings often have limited patience, so I make sure to get their portion done early so they can relax or leave once their part is finished. Then, we move on to parent portraits. As a newborn photographer and mom, I will always recommend parents and family being in the photos.

Newborn Session Poses: Variety in Setups: Moses Basket, Crates, Bed, or Flokati

After family photos, I place the baby in a variety of setups such as a Moses basket, crates, a cozy bed, or a flokati rug. Each of these settings creates a unique and classic look while keeping the baby comfortable and peaceful. This stage often takes a fair amount of time and patience is key, following baby’s cues, allowing for gentle transitions and a natural, baby-led flow. This is where my special training as a newborn photographer has been of the utmost importance. Parents- it is so incredibly important to make sure your baby is safe and trained in newborn photography!

Feeding Break & Final Poses

By this point, the baby usually needs another feeding break. I always follow the baby’s lead to keep them content. Once they’re settled again, I move to the final set of poses on the table. This is where I capture those sweet belly and chin-on-hands poses that parents love. For safety, baby has to be very sleepy to perfect these poses!

Each session is carefully designed to be smooth, efficient, and baby-centered, ensuring a calm and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. No matter how busy life gets, freezing these precious moments in time is always worth it.

Ready to book?
Contact me today!

https://tawnyrochellephotography.com/contact

Season of the Girl: Newborn Baby Girl Sessions

I started my new year photographing baby boys, but lately, it has been the season of the girl! I’ve been loving all the requests for soft blush tones, pale pinks, delicate florals, and subtle greenery. Such a dreamy combination for baby girl newborn sessions!

This recent session was extra special. Mom reached out after seeing photos from her old co-worker’s Baby Girl Newborn Sessions with me. She made the 45-minute drive from Hermiston, OR up to Tri-Cities for these photos. She’s a mom of three but had never had professional pictures done before. Knowing this made it even more meaningful for me to capture these sweet first moments with her newest little one.

There’s no greater compliment than a referral and a good review—when someone loves my work so much they have to work with me. It means the world, and I’m so grateful for the families who trust me to document these fleeting moments during their Baby Girl Newborn Sessions.

If you’re expecting and thinking about a newborn session, I’d love to create something timeless for you, too! https://tawnyrochellephotography.com/contact

Here’s some of momma’s favorite images from our session! The little smirk and soft blush makes me melt. I could put every baby in this moses basket and never get enough!

Ready to Book?

When you book a session with me, you are choosing a photographer who prioritizes your baby’s safety and comfort. I am trained in newborn photography and infant CPR. This ensures that your little one is in expert hands throughout the Baby Girl Newborn Session. My in-home studio provides a warm, controlled environment so your baby is not exposed to the elements. This makes the experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. I take pride in creating a relaxed atmosphere where you can truly enjoy the experience. Let’s create beautiful, timeless memories together that you will cherish for years to come.

You might be wondering whether or not you want to join in for your baby’s newborn session. You just birthed a whole human, and momma that is HARD work. I know you are tired, and don’t feel your best, but let me tell you from personal experience, you will never regret being in your newborn photos with your brand new baby. I remember taking my daughter’s newborn pictures at just FIVE days post emergency C-Section (which I do not recommend, but it was Christmas time and the photographer was going to closed for a few weeks). I could barely move because I was so sore, and I had an allergic reaction right before the session so my lip was very swollen. I did not feel beautiful, I almost gave up on taking pictures, and just had my son take pictures with her. But I did it anyway. And let me tell you, my daughter LOVES to look a those photos, and honestly, so do I. I unfortunately struggled with severe post partum depression with my daughter, and that time feels like a blur. I am so incredibly grateful that I have those photos to look back on.

While I do offer a session that includes the newborn only, I love including family and siblings in your session. Incorporating parents and siblings into the session creates timeless images that tell a complete story of your growing family.

Your First Family Portrait

One of the most meaningful images I capture is your first family portrait. These early days are a whirlwind of emotions, and life moves fast. Having a professional photo of your new family records a moment in time that you’ll cherish forever. It’s a reminder of how small your baby once was and how your family came together in those first few weeks.

The Bond Between Siblings

For older siblings, welcoming a new baby is a major milestone. Including them in the session not only creates beautiful memories but also helps them feel important in this new chapter. I love capturing these moments that highlight the precious bond forming between them. Whether it’s a gentle kiss on the baby’s head, a tiny hand wrapped around their new sibling’s fingers, or an excited hug. Over the years, these photos will serve as a reminder of where their relationship began.

Capturing Mom and Baby

There is something incredibly special about a mother holding her newborn. These moments are often missed in the everyday blur of feedings and diaper changes. You did the work momma, let me capture the beauty and love between you and your baby. It’s beautiful and one of a kind.

Daddy’s Hands

Dad holding baby is a classic and powerful image. The contrast between a father’s hands and the tiny new life he holds is a beautiful representation of protection, strength, and love. Whether it’s the way he cradles the baby in his arms, gently cups a tiny head, or little fingers wrapped around his own, these moments are priceless. I strive to document them in a way that feels natural and meaningful.

Details That Matter

A few of the most cherished images are the ones that focus on the little details—baby’s hand grasping a parent’s finger, tiny feet resting in mom or dad’s hands, or the way they fit perfectly in your arms. These small details change so quickly, and I love freezing them in time so you can hold onto the memory long after your baby has grown.

Ready to Book?

When you book a session with me, you are choosing a photographer who prioritizes your baby’s safety and comfort. I am trained in newborn photography and infant CPR, ensuring that your little one is in expert hands throughout the session. My in-home studio provides a warm, controlled environment so your baby is not exposed to the elements, making the experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. I take pride in creating a relaxed atmosphere where you can truly enjoy the experience. Let’s create beautiful, timeless memories together that you will cherish for years to come.

Welcoming this sweet baby boy into my studio was such a joy! After a short stay in the NICU, he arrived sleepy, content, and absolutely perfect for his session. It’s always incredible to see how resilient and peaceful these little ones are, and he made my job so easy.

Mom had a special vision for one of his setups—a cozy pose on the bed with his foot hanging off the side while on his belly. It turned out to be such a beautiful and timeless image, and I loved it so much that I’ll now be offering it as one of my go-to setups! I always love incorporating parents’ ideas into sessions, making each gallery unique and meaningful to their family.

Every baby’s story is special, and I’m honored to capture these fleeting moments for families to cherish forever.

About Tawny

Tawny is an award winning newborn and baby photographer based in Tri-Cities, WA, with a passion for capturing the precious first moments of life. With a background as an ER nurse specializing in caring for babies and hands-on mentoring from experienced photographers, Tawny brings a unique blend of skill and care to my sessions. Using natural light, simple setups, and beautiful photography to create heartfelt images of your baby’s earliest moments, she combines expertise and creativity to deliver stunning, safe, and timeless portraits.

I recently had the pleasure of photographing a sweet baby boy with a head full of hair at just 13 days old. His dad reached out to me at 8 PM the night before, and I was thrilled to fit them in for a session the very next day. While I always recommend booking your newborn session during your second trimester, I encourage parents to reach out even if they think it might be too late—you never know when I might have an opening! (tawnyrochellephotography.com/contact)

This little one was an absolute dream to work with and one of the easiest babies I’ve photographed to date. During our session, mom shared that they had contacted other photographers but were told that sessions couldn’t be scheduled past 10 days old. That’s not how I operate my newborn photography. I believe every family deserves to capture this fleeting time, no matter the circumstances and timeline. Whether there was a NICU stay, a challenging recovery, or simply not realizing how quickly those first days fly by, I’m here to accommodate parents and their precious little ones whenever they’re ready.

I’m so excited to see which images mom and dad love the most, but until then, I’m sharing a couple of my personal favorites from this session on the blog. These moments are why I do what I do—preserving the beauty and love of these early days for families to cherish forever.

If you’re expecting or know someone who is, don’t hesitate to reach out. Let’s create timeless memories together! tawnyrochellephotography.com/contact

About Tawny

Tawny is an award winning newborn and baby photographer based in Tri-Cities, WA, with a passion for capturing the precious first moments of life. With a background as an ER nurse specializing in caring for babies and hands-on mentoring from experienced photographers, Tawny brings a unique blend of skill and care to my sessions. Using natural light, simple setups, and beautiful photography to create heartfelt images of your baby’s earliest moments, she combines expertise and creativity to deliver stunning, safe, and timeless portraits.

Capturing maternity sessions is always a highlight for me, and this one was extra special. I had the chance to photograph a co-worker who trusted me to document this exciting time in her life. She’s not only letting me capture her maternity photos but has also asked me to photograph her newborn baby when they arrive. It’s always such a privilege to be part of these moments, and there is no greater compliment to my work.

Highlighting the Baby Bump
We kicked things off with some simple, classic shots focusing on her baby bump- of course the highlight of the show. These two braved freezing weather to enjoy the beautiful overlook here in Tri-Cities. We took lots of breaks to warm up, and I made sure to pack the handwarmers to make everyone comfortable for this beautiful outdoor shoot. We kept the vibe easy and relaxed, letting the bump be the star of the show. These kinds of photos always turn out timeless and understated, and are genuinely one of my favorite. They are always a part of my gallery images.

Catching the Connection
Next up, we brought her husband into the mix. They shared some sweet moments together—holding hands, leaning in close, and just enjoying being in the moment.

Laughs and Real Moments
The best part of the session was all the laughter. These two have such a fun energy together, and their jokes and playful teasing kept the vibe light. Those real, unplanned moments always make the best memories. It’s a great reminder that these sessions are as much about celebrating your personality as they are about the milestone itself. I encourage all couples to share their inside jokes, talk about how they feel about becoming parents, whisper a funny word in each others ears, see how many kisses you can get in 10 seconds. Belly laughs are my favorite!

This session was a great mix of relaxed moments and a little bit of creative posing. If you’re thinking about booking a maternity session, don’t stress about being “perfect.” Just come ready to have some fun and make memories—I’ll take care of the rest!

I cannot wait to meet their little girl soon!

Ready to book your maternity, newborn, or family session? Send me a message, I would love to work with you. tawnyrochellphotography.com/contact

About Tawny

Tawny is an award winning newborn and baby photographer based in Tri-Cities, WA, with a passion for capturing the precious first moments of life. With a background as an ER nurse specializing in caring for babies and hands-on mentoring from experienced photographers, Tawny brings a unique blend of skill and care to my sessions. Using natural light, simple setups, and beautiful photography to create heartfelt images of your baby’s earliest moments, she combines expertise and creativity to deliver stunning, safe, and timeless portraits.

Welcoming a brand-new baby is one of the most incredible moments in life. While studio newborn sessions capture the sweetness of your baby in a carefully styled setting, there’s something unique about documenting those very first hours after birth. That’s where a Fresh 48 session comes in. Whether you add it to your full newborn photography package or book it on its own, a Fresh 48 session will preserve the raw and beautiful emotions of your baby’s first days.

What is a Fresh 48 Session?

A Fresh 48 session is a short photography shoot that takes place within the first 48 hours after your baby is born, typically in the hospital. Rather than highly posed images, these photos capture authentic moments. They’re meant to document the newness of your baby and the love that fills the room right after birth.

Why Book a Fresh 48 Session?

1. Preserving the Raw Emotions:
   The first hours of your baby’s life are filled with an incredible mix of emotions—relief, wonder, excitement, and a bit of exhaustion. Capturing those candid, heartfelt moments in real time means you’ll always be able to look back and feel the warmth of that life-changing day.
2. Capturing Fleeting Details:
   Newborns change fast—those wrinkly little toes, the hospital bracelets, and the first snuggles on mommy’s chest. A Fresh 48 session freezes those details before they’re gone.
3. Documenting Siblings’ First Meeting:
   If your new addition has an older sibling, a Fresh 48 is an ideal time to capture that very first moment of big brother or big sister meeting the baby. Whether it’s immediate excitement or cautious curiosity, it’s a precious memory to treasure forever.
4. Low-Stress, Low-Pressure Environment:
   Unlike a studio session, a Fresh 48 session is documentary in style—no need to plan outfits, props, or pose in a perfectly lit space. You can relax, focus on bonding with your newborn, and let the authenticity of these early moments shine through.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is a Fresh 48 session too stressful right after giving birth?
   Not at all! A Fresh 48 session is meant to be relaxed, unobtrusive, and supportive. You stay comfortable in your hospital bed or preferred spot, and I’ll quietly capture the real moments as they unfold.
2. Can I still have a studio session if I choose to do a Fresh 48?
   Absolutely! Many parents love having both. The Fresh 48 captures candid, emotional moments right after birth, and the studio session is where we create the classic, posed newborn portraits.
3. What if my birth doesn’t go as planned?
   Birth is unpredictable, and that’s okay! We stay in touch leading up to your delivery so we can adjust as needed. If there’s an unexpected change (like a C-section or extended hospital stay), we’ll work around it to photograph your family when it’s comfortable and feasible.

Final Thoughts

The first 48 hours after your baby’s birth are filled with profound love, fleeting details, and sweet beginnings. By adding a Fresh 48 session to your newborn photography package (or booking it on its own), you’ll ensure those once-in-a-lifetime memories are beautifully preserved. There’s nothing quite like looking back on those photographs and reliving the awe and excitement of your baby’s earliest moments.

If you’re interested in scheduling a Fresh 48 or have more questions, I’d be honored to be a part of this special time in your family’s story. Feel free to get in touch to discuss availability, package options, and how we can best capture your new little one’s arrival.

Ready to Book or Learn More?
Contact me today to chat about the perfect photography package for your growing family. Let’s create timeless memories you’ll cherish for years to come! tawnyrochellephotography.com/contact

I recently had the pleasure of photographing sweet little Blaine in my studio for a cozy newborn session. There’s something so special about capturing those first days of life—tiny fingers, delicate eyelashes, and the quiet wonder in a newborn’s eyes. My strobe light setup creates a soft, glowing look that highlights every precious detail.

The session was calm and relaxed from start to finish. We made sure Blaine was warm and comfortable, taking breaks whenever needed so that both baby and parents felt at ease. Mom and Dad were absolutely overjoyed, and it was such a treat to witness their awe as they held their tiny bundle of joy. I’m always reminded during these sessions of how quickly the newborn stage passes, which makes documenting it all the more meaningful.

Below, you’ll find a few of my favorite photos from Blaines’s session. I hope you enjoy these sweet images as much as I enjoyed capturing them!

About Tawny

Tawny is an award winning newborn and baby photographer based in Tri-Cities, WA, with a passion for capturing the precious first moments of life. With a background as an ER nurse specializing in caring for babies and hands-on mentoring from experienced photographers, Tawny brings a unique blend of skill and care to my sessions. Using natural light, simple setups, and beautiful photography to create heartfelt images of your baby’s earliest moments, she combines expertise and creativity to deliver stunning, safe, and timeless portraits.