Fresh 48 Hospital Session with Baby Lucy | Minneapolis Newborn & Fresh 48 Photographer

There is nothing quite like the first hours after welcoming your baby into the world. The emotions are raw, the moments are fleeting, and everything feels beautifully new. Baby Lucy’s Fresh 48 hospital session was the perfect reminder of why these sessions are so meaningful for growing families.

As a Minneapolis Fresh 48 and newborn photographer, I love documenting these early hours because they preserve the real, emotional moments families never want to forget — the first cuddles, tiny yawns, wrinkly newborn fingers, and overwhelming joy of finally meeting your baby.

Lucy’s hospital session was calm, intimate, and filled with love. The soft window light streamed into the hospital room while her parents held her close, completely soaking in those first precious moments together. There was no pressure for perfection — only connection, emotion, and the beginning of a brand-new chapter.

What Is a Fresh 48 Session?

A Fresh 48 session is a lifestyle newborn photography session that takes place within the first 24–48 hours after your baby is born, usually at the hospital, birth center, or your home if you’ve had a home birth.

Unlike a traditional posed newborn session, Fresh 48 photography focuses on authentic storytelling like tiny hospital bracelets, emotional sibling meetings, skin-to-skin snuggles, and the quiet in-between moments you may already be forgetting

These sessions are natural, relaxed, and documentary-inspired — capturing your baby exactly as they are in those first unforgettable hours.

Why Families Love Hospital Newborn Photography

One of the biggest reasons parents book Fresh 48 sessions in Minneapolis and the Twin Cities is because they want honest memories — not overly posed images. These sessions are especially meaningful because they capture moments parents are often too exhausted or emotional to fully remember on their own.

When families look back at Lucy’s images years from now, they won’t just see what she looked like — they’ll remember how those first hours felt.

When Should You Book a Fresh 48 Session?

The best time to reserve your Fresh 48 photographer is during your second trimester or early third trimester. Since babies arrive on their own schedule, photographers typically reserve your due date month and remain on-call once labor begins.

Looking for a Fresh 48 or Newborn Photographer in Minneapolis?

If you’re expecting and considering a Fresh 48 hospital session or lifestyle newborn photography in Minneapolis or the surrounding Twin Cities area, I would love to help document these once-in-a-lifetime memories for your family.

The first hours with your baby deserve to be remembered — not perfectly, but honestly.

Studio Maternity Session | The Workshop Studio | Minnetonka, MN

Lexy’s maternity session was simple and beautiful. I have had the pleasure of working with Lexy and her beautiful family for almost 6 years. I love watching their family grow and change over the years. It’s one of my favorite things about being a family photographer - specifically a family photographer in Minnesota - because there are sooo many stunning spots for photos. One of my favorite studios is the Workshop in Minnetonka. Scroll down to see why!

In Home Newborn Session in South Minneapolis | Baby Calvin

There’s something incredibly special about welcoming a new baby home. The quiet moments, the tiny details, the sleepy snuggles — they pass in the blink of an eye. On a brisk spring morning in South Minneapolis, I had the joy of documenting one of those fleeting seasons for sweet baby Calvin and his family during a cozy in-home newborn session.

As a South Minneapolis newborn photographer, these sessions are some of my favorites to capture because they tell the real story of early parenthood: intimate, emotional, and beautifully imperfect in all the best ways.

The soft spring light poured through the windows as Calvin slept peacefully in his parents’ arms. The calm atmosphere of their home made every image feel warm, organic, and timeless. There’s no need for elaborate props or stiff posing during a lifestyle newborn session — the connection between a family and their new baby is always enough.

Why In-Home Newborn Sessions Are So Meaningful

One of the biggest reasons families choose an in-home newborn photography session in Minneasota is comfort. During those early postpartum weeks, leaving the house can feel overwhelming. Having your session at home allows everyone to relax and settle into a familiar environment while preserving meaningful memories in the space where your baby’s story begins.

Your nursery, favorite rocking chair, family pets, and even the little everyday moments become part of your family legacy. Years from now, these photographs will remind you not only of what your baby looked like — but what life felt like during those first precious days.

Baby Calvin’s session was full of those meaningful moments:

• Tiny fingers curled around mom’s hand

• Warm cuddles with sister

• Gentle forehead kisses from dad

• The peaceful quiet of a slow spring morning

These are the details that deserve to be remembered.

For families searching for:

• Minneapolis newborn photography

• Lifestyle newborn photographer in Minneapolis

• South Minneapolis newborn sessions

• In-home newborn photography near Minneapolis

• Natural light newborn photographer Minnesota

…sessions like Calvin’s are exactly why lifestyle newborn photography continues to grow in popularity. Parents want images that feel authentic and emotionally connected — not overly posed or rushed.

When Should You Book Your Newborn Session?

The best time to book your newborn photographer is during your second trimester or early third trimester. This helps ensure availability around your due date. Most newborn sessions take place within the first 2–3 weeks after birth, when babies are still sleepy and naturally cuddly, but lifestyle sessions can truly happen anytime during those early months.

The most important thing isn’t perfection — it’s preserving this chapter before it slips away.

Why These Photos Matter

In the haze of newborn life, days can feel long while the season itself passes unbelievably fast. The tiny newborn stretches, wrinkly toes, milk-drunk smiles, and sleepy snuggles will all change sooner than you expect.

Photographs give you the ability to return to these moments again and again.

Baby Calvin may never remember this brisk spring morning in South Minneapolis, but one day he’ll be able to see how deeply he was loved from the very beginning.

And that’s the true beauty of newborn photography.

Looking for a Minneapolis Newborn Photographer?

If you’re expecting and searching for a cozy, heartfelt newborn photography experience in Minneapolis or the surrounding Twin Cities area, I’d love to help you preserve these fleeting moments with your growing family.

Whether your style is relaxed and candid or soft and timeless, in-home newborn sessions create meaningful images you’ll treasure for generations.

MN Newborn Session | Baby Isabella | Stillwater, MN

Including your furry companions in family photos can add an extra layer of joy and warmth to your cherished memories. To ensure a successful photo session with your dogs, it's essential to plan ahead and consider their needs and personalities. Firstly, choose a location that is familiar and comfortable for your dogs, such as your backyard or a nearby park where they can roam freely and feel relaxed. Bring along their favorite toys or treats to keep them engaged and cooperative during the shoot, and consider enlisting the help of a friend or family member to assist with handling them while you focus on posing and interacting with the rest of the family. Additionally, schedule the photo session during a time when your dogs are typically well-rested and calm, such as after a walk or playtime, to increase the chances of capturing their adorable expressions and playful personalities.

Furthermore, patience is key when including dogs in family photos. Dogs can be unpredictable, so it's important to approach the photo session with a relaxed and patient attitude, allowing them time to adjust to the surroundings and feel comfortable in front of the camera. Be prepared to take breaks as needed and allow your dogs to explore and take breaks to prevent them from becoming stressed or anxious. Remember to reward them with plenty of praise, pets, and treats for their cooperation and good behavior, reinforcing positive associations with the photo session. With patience, preparation, and plenty of love, including your dogs in family photos can result in heartwarming and memorable images that capture the true essence of your beloved furry family members.

I especially love with my clients include their pups in their newborn sessions, like my dear friends Ashley & Austin and their new baby girl, Isabella :)

One Year Session with Cal in Studio | Ramsey, MN

A Guide to Planning Outfits for Photography Sessions

Embarking on a photography session is an exciting adventure, whether it's for family portraits, engagement photos, or a special occasion. One of the key elements to consider when preparing for your session is choosing the perfect outfits. Coordinating your clothing can elevate the visual appeal of your photos and create a cohesive look that reflects your personal style. In this blog post, I’ll share some tips and tricks for planning outfits that will make your photography session truly picture perfect.

1. Coordinate, Don't Match: Gone are the days of everyone wearing the same color shirt and jeans for a family photo. Instead, aim for coordinated outfits that complement each other without being too matchy-matchy. Choose a color palette or theme and select clothing in varying shades and textures within that palette. This adds visual interest and depth to your photos while allowing each individual's personality to shine through.

2. Consider the Location and Season: When planning your outfits, take into account the location and season of your photography session. For outdoor shoots, consider the natural surroundings and choose colors that complement the landscape. In the spring or summer, light, airy fabrics and pastel hues work beautifully, while fall and winter call for richer tones and cozy layers. Dressing appropriately for the weather ensures both comfort and style during your session.

3. Pay Attention to Patterns and Textures: Incorporating patterns and textures into your outfits can add dimension and visual interest to your photos. Mix and match different patterns, such as stripes, plaids, and florals, but be sure to balance bold patterns with more subtle pieces to avoid overwhelming the overall look. Likewise, incorporating textures like lace, denim, knits, or leather can add depth and richness to your outfits.

4. Keep it Timeless: While it's fun to experiment with current trends, timeless and classic pieces often stand the test of time and result in photos that remain timeless for years to come. Opt for simple, elegant silhouettes and neutral colors that won't distract from the focus of the photos – you and your loved ones. Avoid overly trendy or flashy clothing that may look dated in the future.

5. Don't Forget the Details: Accessorizing can take your outfits to the next level and add a personal touch to your photos. Consider adding jackets, scarves, hats, or belts to elevate your look. But remember, less is often more – choose one or two key accessories to avoid overwhelming the ensemble.

6. Comfort is Key: Last but certainly not least, prioritize comfort when selecting outfits for your photography session, especially if children are involved. Choose clothing that allows freedom of movement and won't cause discomfort or irritation during the shoot. When everyone feels comfortable and at ease, it shines through in the photos, resulting in natural and relaxed poses.

Planning outfits for a photo session is an opportunity to showcase your personal style while creating a cohesive and visually stunning ensemble. By coordinating colors, considering the location and season, incorporating patterns and textures, opting for timeless pieces, paying attention to details, and prioritizing comfort, you can ensure that your photos reflect the beauty and authenticity of your family's story. So go ahead, have fun with your outfit selections, and get ready to capture memories that will last a lifetime.

Brianne and Tobias are always on point with their wardrobe choices —

In-home baby session | Minneapolis, Minnesota | Baby Ronan

In-home baby session | Minneapolis, Minnesota | Baby Ronan

Want to have an amazing in-home newborn session?

1. Be sure to feed your newborn as close to the start of our shoot as you can to fill them up and make them sleepy and satisfied.
2. Warm up your house! Even a couple degrees can make your nug feel more comfy. Keep this in mind when dressing yourselves though! Shoot for 70-72 degrees.
3. Clean up (or ask someone else to help with this), the areas you may want to shoot in. I typically shoot in the nursery, living room, and parents bedroom.
4. Pick out your favorite solid or simple patterned swaddles, onesies, and outfits to dress your new babe in. Assuming we don’t have any blow outs, I usually do 2-3 outfits/swaddles for baby.

Outdoor Sailcloth Tent Wedding on Family Property | Sarah & Jude

Sarah & Jude’s June wedding was the most magical day. From the littlest detail to the stunning location — everything was thoughtful and authentic. I think backyard tent weddings provide such a great personal and unique option for your wedding, but could come with some extra questions and considerations - so here are some tips for beginning to plan your own intimate backyard wedding :)

Tips for Planning Your Outdoor Sailcloth Tent Wedding

Are you dreaming of a wedding that combines the romance of the great outdoors with the elegance of a classic celebration? Look no further than an outdoor sailcloth tent wedding! With its billowing fabric, soft ambient lighting, and panoramic views of nature's beauty, a sailcloth tent provides the perfect setting for a magical and unforgettable day. In this blog post, we'll explore some essential tips to consider when planning your outdoor sailcloth tent wedding, ensuring smooth sailing as you embark on this journey to happily ever after.

1. Choose the Perfect Location: The first step in planning your outdoor sailcloth tent wedding is to choose the perfect location. Whether you envision exchanging vows by the sparkling shores of a lake, beneath the lush canopy of a forest, or in the tranquil embrace of a sprawling vineyard, consider a setting that resonates with your style and reflects the natural beauty of the outdoors. Be sure to select a venue that can accommodate a sailcloth tent and provides easy access to essential amenities like restrooms and parking.

2. Embrace the Beauty of Nature: One of the most enchanting aspects of an outdoor sailcloth tent wedding is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Embrace the natural surroundings by incorporating elements like lush greenery, blooming flowers, and romantic decor into your wedding design. Consider adding whimsical touches like hanging floral installations, driftwood accents, and twinkling string lights to enhance the enchanting ambiance of your outdoor celebration.

3. Plan for Inclement Weather: While outdoor weddings offer unparalleled beauty and charm, they also come with the risk of inclement weather. Be prepared for all possibilities by having a backup plan in place in case of rain, wind, or extreme temperatures. Work closely with your tent rental company to ensure your sailcloth tent is equipped with sidewalls, heaters, fans, and other amenities to keep you and your guests comfortable in any weather conditions. Consider renting a generator to power lighting and electrical equipment, ensuring your celebration can continue uninterrupted regardless of the elements.

4. Create Comfortable Seating Areas: Provide your guests with comfortable seating areas where they can relax, socialize, and enjoy the festivities throughout the day and into the evening. Arrange cozy lounge furniture, plush ottomans, and rustic benches around the perimeter of your sailcloth tent, creating inviting spaces for conversation and relaxation. Add soft throw pillows, blankets, and rugs to enhance comfort and warmth, allowing guests to linger and savor every moment of your special day.

5. Illuminate the Night: As the sun sets and the stars begin to twinkle overhead, illuminate your outdoor sailcloth tent wedding with soft, romantic lighting that enhances the enchanting ambiance of the evening. Hang elegant chandeliers from the center peaks of your tent, drape twinkling fairy lights along the fabric edges, and scatter votive candles and lanterns throughout the space to create a warm and inviting glow. Consider incorporating elements like fire pits, bonfires, and torches to add drama and warmth to your outdoor celebration, providing guests with cozy gathering spots to enjoy late into the night.

Planning an outdoor sailcloth tent wedding is an opportunity to create a truly magical and unforgettable celebration that combines the beauty of nature with the elegance of classic romance. By choosing the perfect location, embracing the beauty of nature, planning for inclement weather, creating comfortable seating areas, and illuminating the night with soft, romantic lighting, you'll set the stage for a day filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. So hoist the sails, set your course for adventure, and prepare to embark on the journey of a lifetime as you sail into happily ever after with your beloved.

Winter studio session | MN Family Photographer

I know we really shouldn’t be talking about winter until another 6+ months, but I couldn’t help but share this sweet studio session :)

Renting a studio for a photo session offers a range of advantages that can elevate the quality and versatility of the photos captured. Firstly, studios (especially Brooke Elizabeth Studio) provide a controlled environment with consistent lighting conditions, allowing photographers to have greater control over the outcome of the photoshoot. Additionally, studios offer a blank canvas for creative expression, providing a variety of backdrops, props, and sets that can be tailored to suit the specific needs and preferences of the client. With the flexibility and privacy that studios afford, photographers and clients alike can feel at ease, enabling them to focus on capturing stunning images without distractions or interruptions.