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Welcoming a new baby into the world is a monumental moment, no matter how it happens. While many envision a natural birth, sometimes a scheduled C-section is necessary. As a birth photographer in North Carolina, I understand that I can't be present in the operating room. However, capturing those first precious moments right after birth, through a Fresh 48 session, is a beautiful and invaluable alternative. Let’s explore why birth photos are essential, even with a scheduled C-section, and how a Fresh 48 session can help preserve those precious memories.
Birth photos are more than just pictures; they are a way to freeze time and capture the raw emotions and beauty of bringing a new life into the world. These photos serve as a tangible memory for parents, allowing them to relive the excitement, joy, and love they felt at that moment. They also become a part of the family's history, something that can be cherished and shared with future generations.
A scheduled C-section is a common and often necessary way to bring a baby into the world. Whether due to medical reasons or personal choice, a C-section is just as significant and worthy of being documented as any other birth method. However, with restrictions in place in North Carolina, birth photographers like myself are unable to enter the operating room. This limitation can be disheartening for parents who want to capture the birth itself, but there is a wonderful alternative: the Fresh 48 session.
A Fresh 48 session is a special photoshoot that takes place within the first 48 hours of a baby's life, typically in the hospital room. These sessions focus on capturing the intimate and candid moments that occur right after birth. From the first cuddles to breastfeeding, to the introduction of siblings, a Fresh 48 session ensures that the magic of those initial hours is beautifully preserved.
Why Fresh 48 Sessions are Ideal for C-Sections: Even though the birth itself cannot be photographed during a C-section, a Fresh 48 session allows for the documentation of the first hours of the baby's life. These sessions capture:
The first time parents hold their baby.
Skin-to-skin contact, which is crucial for bonding.
The baby's first moments of exploring the world.
The love and joy shared between family members as they welcome the new addition.
Preparing for a Fresh 48 Session: To ensure a successful Fresh 48 session, here are some tips for parents:
Expect the Unexpected: Babies can be unpredictable, so be prepared for a range of emotions and moments.
Outfits and Props: Pack a special outfit for the baby and coordinate outfits for parents. Bring sentimental items or props that you would like included in the photos. Remember, you do not need to being anything to make these photos special. Capturing your newborn baby and those first sweet moments are special enough.
Communicate with Your Photographer: Discuss your vision and any specific moments you want captured. This helps ensure that the session meets your expectations.
Relax and Enjoy: The best photos often come from candid moments, so try to relax and enjoy the experience without worrying too much about posing.
Client Testimonials and Stories: Hearing from other parents who have experienced a Fresh 48 session can be incredibly reassuring. Here is a client who had scheduled C-sections and opted for a Fresh 48 session:
Amber and Dylan: "I really can not say enough about Ashley! I found her on Facebook super late in my pregnancy while looking for a newborn photographer. I was honestly not sure I would be able to find anyone with how late it really was, let alone be able to get to have fresh 48 photos done since I had a c-section. Ashley was the sweetest from the beginning and answered every question I had. I was super scared to have the fresh 48 photos done because of me not being at my best, (super swollen and not being able to really do much) and I wanted to cancel all together. Ashley was very encouraging and empowering and didn’t let me cancel and I am forever thankful that she didn’t. She came into our hospital room like we had known her for years and was one of our friends coming to see our new baby. It just was such a breeze and it felt so normal to have her there capturing our first memories with our last baby."
Every birth story is unique and worth documenting, regardless of the birth method. While a scheduled C-section may come with certain limitations, it doesn't mean you have to miss out on capturing those irreplaceable first moments with your new baby. A Fresh 48 session offers a beautiful and meaningful way to preserve these first memories with your newborn baby.
If you're expecting and considering a scheduled C-section, I encourage you to reach out and learn more about how a Fresh 48 session can work for you. Let’s capture the love, joy, and first moments of your baby's life together. Contact me to schedule your Fresh 48 session!
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