Baby’s First Year

Congratulations on your growing family! This new chapter is one you’ve dreamed of—and it’s finally here. In the whirlwind of feedings, naps, and first giggles, you’ll find yourself thinking, I never want to forget this. That’s exactly where I come in.

I created my Baby’s First Year packages as a way to capture this fleeting season. Each session documents a new milestone—from the sleepy newborn days to that proud moment when your baby sits on their own, and all the tiny, meaningful details in between. One day, your child will flip through their baby album or pass your framed prints in the hallway and know, without a doubt, how deeply they were loved from the very beginning.

I’ve been honored to photograph hundreds of families over the past 16 years, and it still feels like the greatest privilege. I can’t wait to meet you and help document your family’s story.

Warmly,
Rachel

Packages

PRODUCTS

F.A.Q.

Maternity Session

I recommend booking your maternity session around week 34-35 of your pregnancy. A park with tall grass would be a beautiful, natural setting. If you want an indoor location instead, we could use your nursery or home. I typically feature the mom-to-be in most of the photos and then add Dad and any other siblings for some, too. As far as what to wear, long flowy dresses are a great option!

Newborn Session

After your baby has been born, we’ll schedule the session for when Baby’s about 2 weeks old. To prepare your baby for photos, I would recommend starting with a clean diaper, a tight swaddle (neutral or soft color) and then feeding him or her right before the session. I know that babies have short windows before they need to be fed or go to sleep, so breaks for feeding and re-swaddling or soothing are common during these sessions.

As far as what to wear for you and Dad, I recommend light colors or neutrals (white, light blue, blush, grey, cream, etc) to maximize lighting inside.

Tips for in-home photos

Leading up to our session, pay attention to what rooms in your house get the best lighting and what time of day, and then let's plan our session around that timing. I normally use the nursery and one other room for relaxed family photos like a living room or bedroom. I know those first couple weeks can feel like you're in survival mode, so know that your whole house does not have to be tidy and ready to photograph, 1-2 well-lit rooms will do!

Locations

Once your baby is old enough to sit independently, we can photograph on-location. Do you have any places that are special to you, like family land or the spot you got married? Choosing a meaningful location can add extra significance to your shoot, and familiar locations also help us to feel at ease. 

Otherwise, here are some ideas: 

NATURAL: Bells Bend Park, Warner Parks

HISTORIC: Clover Bottom Mansion, Scarritt Bennett*, Cool Springs House, Hodge House

URBAN: Cumberland Park 

TRADITIONAL: Centennial Park, War Memorial Auditorium, Cheekwood* 

LAKE: Long Hunter State Park, Anderson Beach on Percy Priest Lake

PLAYFUL: Jeni’s Ice Cream, Bicycle riding,

*some locations require a fee to use their grounds

Ready to preserve your baby’s first year?
Let’s talk. I’d love to hear about your family and create something meaningful for you.
Contact Rachel