Behind the scenes
Why we photograph newborns in the hospital, not a studio
What an in-hospital newborn session looks like, why the first 48 hours photograph so differently, and why First Light never sells at the bedside.
Read the articleGentle notes for the first weeks
Practical, calm advice written for parents, not photographers — from swaddling to taking your own photos at home. Written by Northern Virginia's in-hospital newborn photography team.
For new parents
How to swaddle your baby, step by step
The simple swaddle our photographers use in every hospital session — snug through the arms, loose at the hips — plus safe-sleep rules and when to stop.
Read the articleFor new parents
Taking beautiful newborn photos at home
Window light, a phone camera and ten minutes: a photographer's advice for photographing your own newborn between milestones.
Read the articleFor new parents
What to pack for the hospital when you want great photos
A short, honest packing list for parents who want beautiful hospital newborn photos — and the things you can leave at home.
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The first 48 hours: what your baby actually looks like
Flaky skin, puffy eyes, a cone-shaped head — what to expect from a brand-new newborn, why it's all normal, and why it's worth photographing.
Read the articleMilestones
A simple photo plan for baby's first year
You don't need a shoot every month. The five moments in baby's first year worth photographing well, and how to keep it easy.
Read the articleFor new parents
Sharing baby photos safely online
Who can see what you post, how private galleries work, and a few gentle rules before baby's face goes on the internet.
Read the articleKeepsakes
Prints, albums, and why paper still matters
Phones fill up and platforms fade. Why printed newborn photos and a simple album are the version of these days your child will actually hold.
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