There’s nothing quite like those first hours after your baby arrives—the messy, beautiful, overwhelming magic of it all. That’s what Fresh 48 Photos are all about. As a Minnesota photographer who’s been lucky enough to capture these incredible first days, I can promise you: it’s not about looking perfect. It’s about holding onto the feeling. Whether you’re still figuring out how to swaddle or just trying to keep your eyes open, your story is worth remembering exactly as it is. Here’s everything you can expect when you book Fresh 48 Photos with me.

Hi, I’m Megan—a Minneapolis newborn and family photographer who believes the best photos are the ones that feel like you. My sessions are relaxed, playful, and focused on real connection, not perfect poses. If you’re hoping for photos that capture your family’s true story— the love, the laughter, the beautiful chaos — take a look at my portfolio or reach out. I’d be so honored to help you document this chapter.

First Things First: What Even Is a Fresh 48?

Fresh 48 Photos are pictures taken within the first two days after your baby is born (hence the “48” part!). These are not posed newborn photos with baskets and props. Instead, they’re real, honest, heart-melting moments between you and your brand-new baby.

They happen while you’re still riding that wild wave of love, exhaustion, and amazement. I’m there to capture it all—the tiny yawns, the first family snuggles, the way your baby curls up just perfectly against your chest.

Fresh 48 Photos are about remembering the feeling of those first hours, not making everything look perfect (because let’s be honest—nothing about new parenthood is perfectly polished, and that’s what makes it beautiful).

Curious about capturing those first unforgettable hours? I’ve created a full guide where you can find out more about these once-in-a-lifetime sessions. I’d love for you to take a look.

Where It Happens (and What That Space Feels Like)

Fresh 48 Photos usually happen right where you are—your hospital room, birthing center, or even your cozy home if you had a home birth. Wherever your baby’s first hours are unfolding, that’s where I’ll be.

I know hospital rooms aren’t exactly dreamy backdrops (hello, beige walls and all the wires). But honestly? That doesn’t matter one bit. What matters is the way you look at your baby. The way your partner leans in close. The way tiny fingers wrap around yours.

I work with the light and space we have. I’ll open curtains, move a chair if needed, and find the little corners where the magic is happening. Fresh 48 Photos are about feeling, not fancy surroundings. Even the mess—the snack wrappers, the rumpled blankets—tells part of the story. And that story is what I’m here to capture.

Curious how a real connection with your photographer can change everything? Head over to the blog to read how a strong connection with your photographer creates authentic family photos. 

What I Bring for Fresh 48 Photos (and What I Don’t)

When I show up for your Fresh 48 Photos, I bring my camera, a few essential lenses, and a heart wide open. That’s it. No big lighting setups, no props, no complicated posing guides.

I believe these first hours are sacred (and a little messy), and my goal is to blend in, not turn it into a production.
I’ll quietly capture the snuggles, the stretches, the sleepy little faces, and yes—even the not-so-perfect moments, because they’re part of the story too.

What don’t I bring? I don’t bring stress. I don’t bring expectations about how you or your baby “should” look. I don’t bring Pinterest boards full of complicated shot lists. Fresh 48 Photos are all about being present, not performing.

All you have to do is be there, loving on your baby. I’ll take care of the rest.

Thinking about newborn photos but not sure where to start? My blog post guides you through why working with a local photographer (who truly understands the beauty and chaos of this season) can make all the difference.

What You (and Baby) Need to Do to “Prepare” for Your Fresh 48 Photos

Honestly? Not much. That’s the beauty of Fresh 48 Photos.

You don’t need a full face of makeup or a fancy outfit. You don’t need to use a special swaddle for your baby (unless you prefer to). You don’t even need a clean room. You need to be there, soaking in your new little person.

If you want to feel a little more ready, here are a few easy ideas:

• Pack a simple, neutral swaddle or onesie for baby (something comfy and timeless).

• Maybe have a soft blanket or two nearby.

• Wear something that makes you feel cozy. Think nursing tank tops, stretchy robes, or your favorite old sweatshirt.

That’s it. No stress. Fresh 48 Photos are about documenting your real, honest beginning, not a polished version of it. And trust me, your love will shine through all on its own.

What I’m Looking For While I’m Shooting

During your Fresh 48 Photos, I’m not looking for “perfect.” I’m looking for real.

I watch for the little things you might not even notice in the moment—the way your baby wiggles their fingers, the way you trace tiny circles on their back without even thinking, the sleepy smiles, the soft forehead kisses. Those are the magic moments.

I’ll guide you gently if needed, such as by asking you to scoot closer to a window or helping you find a comfortable spot to sit. But mostly, I just let you be. I’m there to catch the real, messy, beautiful beginning of your life together.

Fresh 48 Photos are about feelings, not poses. They’re about memory-making, not magazine-making.

What If Things Feel a Little Chaotic?

Here’s the truth: Chaos is normal, and it’s welcome during your Fresh 48 Photos.

Here’s how we roll with it:

• If your baby cries: We take our time. I’ll keep shooting through the snuggles, feeding, and soothing.

• If your toddler is wild: Perfect. Wild equals personality, and I love capturing their energy just as it is.

• If the room gets busy: We work around it. Nurses, visitors, snack breaks—it’s all part of your story.

• If you feel overwhelmed: We slow down. You’ll never be rushed or pushed to “perform” for the camera.

• If the lighting isn’t perfect: That’s okay. I’m trained to find the little pockets of magic even in messy, dim spaces.

Fresh 48 Photos are about meeting you right where you are—no stress, no expectations, just real moments.

After the Session: What Happens Next

After your Fresh 48 Photos session, I head home and carefully back up every image; your memories are too important to risk! I’ll spend time hand-editing each photo, making sure the little details and big emotions are preserved just as they felt in the moment. Within a few weeks, you’ll get an online gallery filled with honest, love-soaked moments—the tiny fingers, the sleepy smiles, the raw, beautiful newness of it all.

You’ll be able to download your images easily (even if you’re running on very little sleep), and I’ll also send you printing options, because these memories deserve more than just a spot on your phone. Fresh 48 Photos aren’t about perfect poses or heavy edits—they’re about remembering how it felt to meet your baby for the very first time.

What to Expect During a Fresh 48 Photos in Minnesota

Fresh 48 Photos are a way to freeze one of the most fleeting moments of your life—the moment when everything changes and your world grows bigger (and somehow so much smaller, all at once). You don’t need a perfect plan. You don’t need to clean the room or fix your hair. You just need stay where you are and love your baby, and I’ll be there to capture the magic that already exists.

If you’re feeling that tug to remember the raw, beautiful first hours—the sleepy stretches, the tiny toes, the way your family suddenly feels bigger—I’d be honored to help you hold onto it. Please take a look at my portfolio to see the stories I’ve been fortunate enough to tell. Reach out if you’re ready to plan your session, or follow me on Instagram to see more of the everyday magic I get to capture.