Baby’s First Photos: Why a Fresh 48 Session with a NJ Newborn Photographer is a Must-Have for New Moms

Okay, mom-to-be, let’s talk about one of the most important photo opportunities you’re about to experience—and it’s one that a lot of first-time (and repeat) moms miss out on: those first 48 hours with your newborn. It might sound like just another “nice-to-have,” but trust me, this is a must-have for your memories!

I’m sure you’ve already thought about your maternity photos and how you want to document your baby’s growth through the first year, but what about baby’s first photos — the first moments right after baby arrives?

The hours in the hospital or birthing center can feel like a blur, but trust me, you’ll want to capture these fleeting moments forever. And no, I’m not talking about the quick phone pics you’ll snap in between feedings and diaper changes—I’m talking about a Fresh 48 session that’s tailored just for you and your family.

Fresh 48 sessions are becoming the newest must-have for parents, and it’s not hard to see why. These intimate, relaxed sessions document the first 48 hours of your baby’s life and capture all those sweet little details: tiny hands and feet, sleepy cuddles, and the raw emotion as siblings meet their new brother or sister for the first time. It’s the real stuff, the memories that are easily forgotten when life picks up and your little one grows way too fast.

Why Baby’s First Photos & Fresh 48 Photos Matter

As a photographer who obsessed with those first moments, I can’t recommend these sessions enough. They’re a game changer for capturing the raw, intimate connection you’ll want to remember forever. No matter how busy or tired you are, you’ll be thankful you took the time to book a Fresh 48 session. It’s not just about the photos—it’s about preserving that irreplaceable time in your life when you bring a brand-new baby into the world.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of photographing Baby’s First Photos at some of the best hospitals in Northern New Jersey, including:

• The Valley Hospital, Ridgewood
• Morristown Medical Center
• The Katana Center for Mother and Child at St. Clare’s Hospital in Denville, NJ
• Barnabas Cooperman Medical Center, Livingston
• Newton Medical Center, Newton NJ

While these hospitals offer quick, on-site photo options, nothing compares to the personalized, calm, and creative experience of a Fresh 48 session. Trust me, you’ll want these photos to be more than just a quick snapshot—they’ll be memories to cherish forever.

How to Prepare for Your Baby’s First Photos Fresh 48 Session

I know the idea of preparing for a photo session while you’re in the midst of all the things (nursing, diapering, sleep-deprivation, oh my!) can seem a little overwhelming. But don’t stress! I’m here to help you with a few easy tips to get ready.

Outfits for the Family

First thing’s first: make sure you’ve got everyone’s outfits ready to go. Don’t wait until the last minute to think about what your family will wear. Start by thinking about comfort and simplicity.

• For you: Comfort is key! I recommend a cute robe or pajama set that you’ll feel good in (and will look adorable in photos). Let’s be real—maternity pants or leggings are your best friend right now. Avoid anything too bright or patterned that might distract from the baby.
• For your partner: Simple is best here too. A solid-colored t-shirt and jeans will work perfectly.
• For siblings: Keep their outfits simple and comfortable as well. Solid-colored dresses, or jeans with a plain tee shirt, will look great. You want everyone to look coordinated but not too matchy-matchy.- these are more about the moments than the outfits so don’t over think it here.
• For baby: You can use the hospital-provided onesies and swaddles for that classic newborn look. But if you want something special, I recommend bringing a plain white onesie or solid color (preemie or size), plus a soft swaddle. Avoid anything too busy or bright—neutral colors will make baby’s features pop.

HERE are a few suggestions on wardrobe and what to bring

Don’t Forget to Stay in Touch

Here’s a key tip—book your Fresh 48 photographer as early as possible (3 months ahead is a good rule of thumb). I know baby’s arrival might be a little unpredictable, but staying in touch with your photographer means we can work together to adjust if baby arrives early or later than expected. And hey, assign this task to your partner—they’ll love taking care of it!

Set the Scene

When I arrive, I’ll work to prep the room so that everything looks just right. I’ll open up the shades to get as much natural light as possible (because that soft hospital light is everything) and turn off the overhead lights to avoid any weird yellow tones. I’ll also tidy up the room, moving any bags or food trays out of the frame so your photos look clean and focused on what matters.

Baby’s Comfort is Key

A happy, sleepy baby makes for the best photos, so I recommend feeding your baby before or during my arrival. If you’re still feeding when I arrive, no worries at all—I’ll take my time to get set up and chat before we start snapping.

A simple tip—dress your baby in a clean, plain onesie to start, then we’ll go from there. I usually recommend keeping it to one outfit for the Fresh 48 session. Baby’s still adjusting to the world, so changing outfits too often can make them fussy. We want baby to be comfy and warm!

No Visitors, Please

While family and friends are always so excited to meet the new baby, I recommend asking them to step out for a bit or grab some coffee during the session. Having a quiet room with just your immediate family is the best way to keep everyone relaxed and focused on the moment. If you want to include grandparents or other relatives in a shot, we can do that toward the end!

Don’t Stress, Mama!

What I love most about Fresh 48 sessions is that they are low stress—this isn’t about perfection, it’s about real, beautiful moments. If baby cries, it’s okay! If big siblings need a little time to warm up to the new baby, no worries! The best part of Fresh 48 photos is that they capture the realness of the moment.

A lot of my clients tell me that their Fresh 48 session is one of the most treasured parts of their newborn experience. Those tiny details change so quickly, and you won’t regret having these photos to remember those first days forever.

Ready to Book Your baby’s First Photos?

If you’re in the Northern New Jersey or NYC area and haven’t yet booked your Fresh 48 session for Baby’s First Photos , it’s not too late! Reach out to me to learn more about this incredibly special photo opportunity. Trust me—you’ll want these moments captured!

Want to see more about Fresh 48 sessions?

Check out this Fresh 48 session at Barnabas Cooperman for a peek at what these sessions are all about.

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Ashley – Renee Ash Photohgraphy
Family & Newborn Lifestyle Photographer
Serving Northern New Jersey, NYC, and Beyond

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