I love when client connections happen organically! The Love family found me through A Brighter Birth collective and we actually had the same doula! As a Richmond newborn photographer, these personal connections make sessions even more special – we spent the first few minutes swapping birth stories before diving into photos.
Home Sweet (Brand New) Home
Talk about timing! The Loves moved into their gorgeous Rockville home just three days before Cooper arrived. As a Richmond newborn photographer, I’ve worked in many homes, but theirs had some of the best natural light I’ve seen. Those big windows in their living room created the perfect soft glow for newborn portraits.
Moving right before having a baby sounds intense, but they seemed surprisingly settled given the circumstances. Cooper was born right there in their new home, making it truly his from day one. I can’t imagine unpacking boxes while preparing for a home birth!
Richmond Newborn Photographer Dog Tips
Riley the dog stole my heart immediately. She was incredibly well-behaved and clearly taking her role as big sister very seriously. Getting dogs comfortable during newborn sessions takes patience, but Riley was a natural in front of the camera. Some of my favorite shots include her gentle presence alongside baby Cooper.
For families with pets, I always plan extra time for pet photos. These furry siblings are such an important part of your baby’s story, and capturing that initial bonding period is priceless.
Working Through Newborn Realities
Cooper had a bit of reflux going on during our session, which is super common for newborns. We kept plenty of burp cloths handy and worked around his spitting up without missing a beat. This is exactly why I never rush newborn sessions – babies set the pace, and we adjust accordingly.
Some of our best shots happened right after cleanup time when Cooper settled into that milk-drunk contentment newborns do so well. His little expressions were worth waiting for!
Richmond Newborn Photographer Style
I focus on capturing genuine family connections in those first days at home. The Love family sessions included a mix of posed newborn portraits and candid lifestyle moments. We used their neutral-toned bedroom as our primary backdrop.
The moments between the “perfect” poses often become my clients’ favorites – dad’s protective hand supporting Cooper’s head, mom’s gentle kiss, or Riley’s curious sniff of her new brother. These authentic interactions tell your unique family story.
Getting to document these first days at home for the Loves was truly special. Those fleeting newborn moments deserve to be preserved, especially when there’s such a beautiful story behind them.
Want to see another type of milestone session? Check out Amara’s cake smash session for first birthday photo inspiration!
Looking for a studio in the Richmond area for your newborn, family, maternity or other type of session? Check out The Studio on Broad!