It’s been quite a shift in the world of newborn photography since the onset of COVID-19, hasn’t it? Like many photographers specializing in newborn sessions, you’ve probably noticed the marked trend away from those immediate post-birth hospital shoots, known affectionately as Fresh 48 sessions, toward more relaxed lifestyle shoots conducted in the comfort of the family home. The change is palpable and carries with it both challenges and charms.
Fresh 48 sessions hold a unique place in the hearts of many photographers, myself included. These sessions are unlike any other type of photography; they capture the raw, unfiltered first hours of a newborn’s life. During these shoots, time is of the essence. Hospitals have been accelerating discharge processes, especially for uncomplicated deliveries, which compresses the window of opportunity to capture these early moments. The urgency adds an exhilarating challenge to the task—you have to be swift, ready, and sensitive to the tender environment of a postnatal hospital room.
When the opportunity arises to conduct a Fresh 48 session, it’s like a rush of adrenaline. There’s something incredibly poignant about stepping into that room where life has just begun to unfurl. The setting is starkly real—there’s the gentle hum of hospital machinery, the soft, rhythmic breathing of a newborn, and the palpable relief and joy of parents. The newborn, often asleep and utterly at peace, provides a perfect subject, their tiny features etched with the newness of life. I find beauty in preserving the authenticity of these moments: the wrinkled feet, the slight red marks from monitoring bands, the fresh hospital bracelets—all signs of a journey just begun. None of these details are erased because they tell a story of strength, of beginnings, of life.
Photographing these first, unguarded moments offers families a treasure trove of memories that are raw and real. Unlike posed or styled photos, these images are spontaneous and brimming with emotion. The tender touches between baby and parent, the awe in the eyes of mom and dad, the intricate details of the hospital room—all these elements weave together to craft a narrative that is both profound and touching.
Embracing the Fresh 48 is about more than just taking photos; it’s about documenting a once-in-a-lifetime event that changes lives forever. It’s about being there, in the fleeting moments where families are born and bonds are formed. It’s an honor to witness and capture such intimate moments, and despite the logistical challenges that sometimes arise, the result is invariably worth it.
As we navigate the evolving preferences and norms post-pandemic, holding space for these precious, early hours remains a heartfelt commitment for those of us privileged to be invited into such personal moments. Let’s continue to cherish and advocate for the irreplaceable value of Fresh 48 sessions, ensuring they remain a vibrant part of newborn photography.
