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.

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.

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.

Welcome! I am so happy you found me and I am looking forward to your newborn photo session. Once you have booked I will send over your questionnaire and a Session Prep Guide that I have personally designed for my clients.

But you might be wondering what to expect during your session so I decided to write this blog to give you an idea of what to anticipate.

Upon arrival at my in-home studio, you’ll be greeted with a warm and cozy environment designed specifically for your baby’s comfort. The studio is kept at an ideal temperature to ensure your little one stays calm and content, especially during those adorable naked poses.

To set the stage for a smooth session, I kindly ask that your baby is fed either on arrival or within the last 15-20 minutes. A full tummy usually means a happy, sleepy baby, which helps us transition through the session with ease.

Step 1: Wrapped Posing

I typically start with wrapped posing. Wrapping helps soothe babies and keeps them feeling secure, which often encourages them to drift into a peaceful sleep. I have a variety of soft, high-quality wraps in different colors and textures for you to choose from. These initial wrapped poses also allow us to capture some sweet, swaddled moments while ensuring your baby feels safe and snug.

Step 2: Parent and Sibling Shots

If you’d like, we can include some special parent and sibling portraits. These photos are often the most cherished, capturing the connection and love shared between family members.

Step 2.1: Details of Toes, Fingers, and Hands

Some of the most precious moments are found in the tiny details. I love capturing close-up shots of your baby’s delicate toes, curled fingers, and the tender touch of a parent’s hands resting gently on their little one. These detailed images add an intimate and artistic touch to your gallery.

Step 3: Prop Selection

During your pre-session questionnaire and once you arrive at the studio, you’ll have the opportunity to select from a variety of props and backdrops. From cozy baskets to elegant wooden crates and delicate flokati rugs, each prop is carefully chosen to create timeless and beautiful images.

Step 4: Transition to Naked Poses

Once your baby is settled and sleepy, we’ll move into the classic naked poses (these babies are all covered for privacy, and naked photos are only ever shared in personal galleries, but these give a sample of the possibilities on the table for posing). This is where the studio’s warm temperature really shines. Each pose is carefully guided to ensure your baby remains comfortable and safe at all times.

Step 5: Final Touches and Wrap-Up

Before we wrap up the session, I may add a few final touches with delicate headbands, hats, or small props to complete the setup. Every detail is thoughtfully considered to ensure your gallery is filled with images you’ll treasure forever.

Thank you for trusting me to capture these fleeting moments of your baby’s earliest days. I can’t wait to deliver a beautiful gallery of memories that will last a lifetime.

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’ll be the first to admit it: I used to believe that the best time to photograph a newborn was always within the first two weeks. During that window, babies are typically sleepiest and more inclined to curl up in those classic, womb-like poses. But I’ve learned that life rarely fits neatly into a schedule—and neither do newborn sessions. Sometimes, for reasons beyond anyone’s control, it’s not possible to shoot in those first fourteen days. And that’s okay.

In fact, just recently, I found myself rescheduling a few newborn sessions due to a bout of flu-like symptoms that hit me and my kids. There was no way I was going to put a baby (or their family) at risk. Health and safety always come first. It got me thinking about all the reasons sessions get moved around. Maybe your baby needed an extended NICU stay. Maybe you didn’t realize how meaningful newborn photographs would be until after your little one arrived. Maybe you needed more time to heal—both physically and emotionally—before feeling ready to pose for pictures. Whatever your reason, a three- or four-week-old session can still yield beautiful, heartfelt images.

Why the Delay Might Happen

1. NICU Stay:
   Some of my clients have welcomed premature babies or little ones who needed special medical attention right after birth. When a hospital stay is involved, the entire idea of a “two-week session” goes straight out the window. By the time everyone is settled at home—maybe around that three- or four-week mark—your baby might be more alert, stronger, and ready for their close-up. It can feel bittersweet knowing those earliest days weren’t as you imagined, but trust me, the gratitude and love you’ll radiate after overcoming those challenges will shine through in your photographs. By three weeks postpartum, she finally felt physically more stable and confident enough to enjoy the experience. That little bit of extra healing time allowed her to fully savor the session—no rushing, no guilt.
2. Illness or Scheduling Conflicts (Photographer or Family):
   I never thought I’d have to postpone a newborn shoot because of my own health, but there I was with a fever and body aches that wouldn’t quit. I had two sessions booked that week, and after a couple of tough emails, we agreed it was best to reschedule. I felt awful about it. Yet both families were incredibly understanding. When we finally got together—about a week and a half later—the babies were older, a bit more alert, and guess what? We got some of the sweetest images. The extra time allowed me to be back at 100%, ensuring a safe, calm, and hygienic environment for these little ones.
3. A Change of Heart about Having Newborn Photos:
   Maybe you didn’t initially plan for a newborn session at all. Between pregnancy, delivery, and adjusting to life with a newborn, the first few weeks can be an absolute whirlwind. Some parents only realize once their little one is here that they want these fleeting moments captured. If you didn’t book your session before birth, don’t worry— I do my absolute best to squeeze clients in and am happy to fit you in as soon as possible, even if your baby is a bit older.

What to Expect When Photographing a 3–4 Week Old

• More Awake Time:
  At three to four weeks, your baby is likely more alert than a just-born newborn. They may spend less time in a deep sleep, which can mean fewer of those ultra-curled poses. But it also means the possibility of capturing sweet glimpses of their eyes, budding expressions, and early hints of personality.
• Adjusting Poses and Approach:
  Because older babies are a bit more aware and less inclined to tuck into that traditional “froggy” pose, your photographer may opt for more natural, relaxed setups. Think cozy wrapping, gentle poses on soft blankets, or snuggly shots in your arms. This shift in style can lead to timeless, genuine images that highlight your baby’s unique features and growing spirit.
• Personality Emerges:
  An older newborn might offer brief smiles, curious glances, or a charming yawn for the camera. These spontaneous moments add depth and character to your photo gallery—little windows into who they are becoming.
• Baby Acne:
  This often starts to appear around 3-4 weeks, but don’t worry, Photoshop can take care of most of that.

Preparing for the Session

1. Feeding and Comfort:
   A well-fed baby is typically more content. Don’t worry if they need breaks during the session—we’ll go at your baby’s pace.
2. A Calming Environment:
   I provide along soothing elements, like white noise and soft blankets, to keep everyone relaxed. If you’re comfortable, your baby is more likely to be comfortable too.
3. Go Easy on Yourself:
   Wear something that makes you feel good. Don’t worry about having the “perfect” outfit or hair. Your genuine love for your child is what will shine through in the final images. My style guide is very helpful, but as the title says, it is just a guide. At the end of the day, you have to be comfortable with yourself.

Embrace the Unexpected

Whether your original plan got derailed due to a NICU stay, a more extended recovery, unexpected illness, or simply because you initially hadn’t considered newborn photography at all, photographing your baby at three to four weeks old can still produce stunning, meaningful images. Instead of fretting about missed timelines, appreciate that this is part of your family’s unique story. You’ll be capturing the resilience, love, and journey that define your first month together.

In the end, these photos are about celebrating your baby exactly as they are in this moment—stronger, more alert, and showing the first glimpses of personality. With the right approach and a nurturing environment, even a slightly older “newborn” session can result in images that will become cherished heirlooms, brimming with the depth and warmth of your family’s one-of-a-kind experience.

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.