What to Expect for Your Hospital Fresh 48 Photos
(Wondering what a Fresh 48 is? Start here: What Is a Fresh 48)
There’s something beautifully raw and fleeting about those first days after birth—and that’s exactly what hospital Fresh 48 photos are all about. These sessions happen while you're still in the hospital, usually within the first two to three days after your baby is born, and they’re designed to capture the honest, emotional, and quietly magical moments of those first days together.
I photograph hospital Fresh 48 photos at CMPC and UCSF in San Francisco, as well as Marin General in Marin County. Whether you delivered vaginally or by C-section, I work around you. If you’re recovering from a C-section, I typically aim to come on day 3, when it’s more likely you’ll be up and walking (but if not, don’t worry—I can do the entire session with you right in the hospital bed). This session lasts about 30 minutes, but I always block off an hour to account for any visits from nurses or doctors.
Your hospital Fresh 48 photos will include a mix of posed and candid shots. Some gentle direction to get a beautiful swaddle shot or a sweet moment of you holding your baby—along with all the natural, unscripted little things that make this time so memorable.
What kinds of photos do we get?
Here’s what’s usually included in a Fresh 48 session:
Baby alone in their hospital bassinet, swaddled and unswaddled if they will tolerate it
Close-ups of tiny hands, feet, hospital bracelets, fuzzy shoulders
Baby being held by each parent
Parents snuggling together with baby (bed or chair—your comfort comes first)
Full family photo (even if it’s just the two of you!)
Sibling photos (if applicable—more below)
Candid in-between moments like yawns, stretches, and nursing if you’d like
What to know about sibling photos:
Siblings are always welcome, but I recommend introducing them to the baby before the session starts at an earlier visit. If possible, have someone on hand (partner, grandparent, friend) who can step out with them once their portion is done—this helps keep things relaxed. It’s also helpful to tamper your expectations: siblings have a huge range of reactions to new babies. For safety, unless your older child is truly comfortable and old enough to hold a baby securely, any sibling + baby photos will have baby in a parent’s arms, with sibling faces close in for a sweet, safe shot.
What do I need to bring?
Nothing special! I’ll photograph your baby in whatever swaddles the hospital provides. You don’t need props or outfits—though I do recommend a robe or your own pajamas instead of a hospital gown for comfort and flattering photos.
Hair and makeup?
Totally up to you. Some parents like a quick touch-up, others go bare-faced. If you're hoping for a more polished, styled look or more variety, I recommend bundling this session with an in-home or studio newborn session. When you book more than one session in a year, you’ll get a discount.
Ready to book?
Fresh 48s are scheduled a little differently since they depend on your delivery. Reach out to coordinate your due date, hospital, and preferences—then let me handle the rest.