CAPTURING THE FIRST MOMENTS: WHY YOU'LL LOVE A FRESH 48 NEWBORN HOSPITAL SESSION
There’s something magical about those first hours after your baby enters the world — tiny fingers grasping for the first time, sleepy yawns, new-parent awe, and the raw, beautiful emotion that fills the room. A Fresh 48 session is designed to freeze those fleeting moments forever.
EL AND EM PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATE
What is a Fresh 48 Session?
A Fresh 48 session is a lifestyle photography shoot that takes place within the first 48 hours of your baby’s birth, typically in your hospital, birthing center, or home if you've had a home birth. These sessions are unposed, documentary-style shoots that focus on natural connections — capturing your baby’s first hours earthside, your first family moments, and the quiet joy of those early hours.
This is not a full newborn session with props and backdrops. Instead, think snuggles in the hospital bed, those tiny hospital bracelets, baby’s first swaddle, meeting siblings or grandparents for the first time, and the emotional glow that only comes once.
Why Choose a Fresh 48 Session?
The Moments Are Raw and Real Your baby will change so quickly — even within the first few days. Their skin, their expressions, their tiny details. Capturing them in this brand-new state is something truly special.
No Pressure, No Perfection Required You don’t have to “look perfect” or have your home cleaned up. These sessions are about the connection — not the styling. You can relax and be present, knowing the most meaningful parts are being documented.
You’ll Remember What It Felt Like Photos from your Fresh 48 session don’t just show what the moment looked like — they capture how it felt. The exhaustion, the joy, the awe — all of it becomes part of your family’s story.
Perfect Complement to a Full Newborn Session Many families pair a Fresh 48 with a traditional newborn shoot done later at home. Together, they tell a complete story — from birth-day to the early days settling in.
What to Expect During Your Session
I’ll typically arrive during daylight hours, within 24–48 hours of baby’s birth (as soon as you're comfortable and ready). The session lasts about 30–60 minutes. You don’t need to worry about preparing anything — I’ll gently guide you through the session while keeping everything relaxed and baby-led.
Some moments we might capture:
Baby in the hospital bassinet
First feedings or diaper changes
Snuggles with parents
Sibling or grandparent introductions
Details like wrinkly feet, ID bracelets, hospital blankets
How to Book a Fresh 48 Session
Because Fresh 48 sessions are time-sensitive, I take a limited number of bookings each month. It’s best to book your session during your second or early third trimester. I’ll be “on call” around your due date and ask you or your partner to notify me once baby arrives so we can schedule a time that works for you.
Final Thoughts
Your baby’s first hours are some of the most emotional and unforgettable of your life — but they can also be a blur. A Fresh 48 session ensures those moments don’t slip away. They become part of your family’s visual story, cherished forever.
If you’re interested in booking your own Fresh 48 session or have any questions, contact me here — I’d be honored to capture these first precious hours with your newest love.
El and Em Photography is located in Troy, MI and specializes in maternity, newborn, motherhood, milestone and family photography. My tiny clients come to my home studio for their sessions from all over the metro Detroit area including: Rochester, Troy, Birmingham, Detroit, Ferndale, Royal Oak, Clawson, Bloomfield, Oak Park, Sterling Heights, Madison Heights, Warren, Southfield, Auburn Hills and more. Michigan Motherhood Photographer.