Have I ever mentioned that I absolutely love photographing newborns?

They are more challenging to photograph than a lot of my subjects:

  • they often need to eat,
  • or have their diaper changed,
  • the room needs to be kept so warm that I’m generally sweating,
  • I’ve been pooped and peed on so many times that I now pack at least 3 shirts to change into, just in case…
  • and they are tiny, little humans who you need to treat carefully and with respect for their needs and more importantly their safety.

But in spite of the challenges, they are truly my favorites. I am touched every single time by their newness, their innocence, and what an absolute miracle they are. I remember when my son was born, my OB (who was the oldest doctor in the practice and had delivered thousands of babies) remarked that he is amazed every single time and counted himself blessed to be in the presence of one of God’s miracles at each delivery. That’s pretty much how I feel about photographing these little ones!

Nicholas was a little older than most of my newborns, just a little over 2 weeks old, and he was a BIG little guy! Okay, that’s a little contradictory, but you know what I mean. He had also gotten used to s-t-r-e-t-c-h-i-n-g out, so those curled up types of poses just weren’t working for him.

Can you believe all that hair?! His big sister and his momma have the same gorgeous, thick, dark hair.

During our session, he was an absolute angel with only a few peeps when he woke up to be fed.

During one of his awake times, we brought his enthusiastic big sister upstairs for a few pictures with her new little brother. Amanda is only 2 years old, and she was utterly fascinated by her new baby. Her parents were a bit nervous about trying to have her hold him, so when she flopped herself down next to him, I just went with that!

While mom was taking care of feeding Nicholas and freshening up his diaper, I got to chat for a bit with Amanda. She is such a doll!

Just a few more little bits of delicious newborness:

I was so struck by his sweet little ears! Love that fine fuzz on his face…

I think this picture of Nicholas’ hand, nesting in his mom’s, nesting in his dad’s is one of my favorites from this session. I love seeing just how tiny these newborns are, and comparing them with their parents makes for a great contrast.

Thank you for the honor of documenting this time for the newest member of your family!