One of my favorite things as my job as an NYC maternity and newborn photographer is seeing my clients as both an expecting mother, and then soon after as a mama with a newborn baby.

The progression from pregnancy to motherhood has of course been occurring since the beginning of time. However, that doesn’t make it feel any less earth shattering and profound.

After sharing in the third-trimester excitement, it is always so touching to see my clients again with their little ones. I know it’s corny to say, but it’s a huge honor.

Studio Maternity Photo Session in Manhattan

Here’s beautiful Jennifer in my Greenwich Village Manhattan photo studio, at 35 weeks pregnant. We had a terrific time together at her maternity photo session. Jenn is a successful entrepreneur and mother of a toddler, in short: a woman with a lot on her plate! It was great to spend some relaxing time at the studio celebrating her pregnancy. I hope she will always look back fondly on her pregnancy portraits.

Dramatic Pregnancy Silhouettes

I love starting off a maternity shoot with the dreamy, ethereal bright-white images.

Then we transition into the more dramatic pregnancy silhouettes. I really enjoy the power and elegance of this lighting setup; it’s one requested by a lot of clients.

At-Home Newborn Photography in NYC

And then, seven weeks later Jennifer told me that her baby boy had arrived! I always look forward to those emails.

My assistant and I loaded up the car with all the newborn props, lighting, swaddles, etc and zoomed down to Jenn’s place in Soho for her at-home newborn photo session. It was so fun to be reunited, and to meet her wonderful family.

Let me introduce the man of the hour….Liam! He was such a doll, and I just love his hair. What a dream.

Best age for a newborn shoot

Liam was five days old at his shoot. The best age for a newborn shoot is a question I’m often asked. Typically I say the best age for a newborn session is when the baby is between 6 – 14 days old, but 5 day old Liam nailed his shoot. It just goes to show the 6 – 14 day old suggestion is a guideline rather than a rule.

I’m definitely partial to simple, neutral backdrops that allow the baby to take center stage. I also like the timelessness of it; these are portraits that are designed to be treasured forever.

However, I love mixing it up with some other soft colors. We bring lots of options to every shoot, so that we can customize each session. You don’t need to bring any swaddles, blankets, or props to your newborn shoot.

Of course family members are included in newborn shoots. This is a family affair! Check out big brother Roman, he is just too cute.

As with this other at-home nyc newborn photo session, we had the good luck to have a grandmother there to join in the photos. I love capturing three generations together.

Book your maternity & newborn shoots today!

Looking for a maternity and newborn photographer? We’d love to work with you. The best time to book your maternity and/or newborn shoots is after your 18-week scan. That way we can get you on the schedule and plan your perfect shoot.

We can do your maternity shoot outdoors or in studio, and your newborn shoot at your home, or in studio. Your call!

For more information, or to reserve your shoot please fill out the form below.

We look forward to hearing from you!

About Daisy Beatty