Welcoming a new baby into the world is a whirlwind – of emotions, of swaddles and snuggles, of figuring out feeding schedules and (let’s be honest) surviving on very little sleep. But in the middle of all that magic and mayhem, there’s this short, sacred window called the Fresh 48. It’s that golden stretch of time in the hospital before you head home, when everything still feels new. Raw. Powerful.

Whether you’re figuring out how to freeze those early hours forever, or just want something more personal than your Uncle Joe’s phone snap, I’ve got something to help: a free fresh 48 photography starter guide for taking your own stunning photos.

And it’s not just a random fresh 48 photography guide – it’s packed with the kind of hands-on advice I’d share if I were right there with you in that hospital room, camera in hand. Because I’ve been there, as a mama myself, camera-ready (and not-so-camera-ready), and I know how fast those first hours slip away.

Let’s make sure you capture the kind of memories you’ll treasure later.

Planning Photos in a Hospital Room? Totally Doable

Here’s the truth: a perfect photo doesn’t need a studio backdrop or elaborate setup. Your family’s first hours together already make the perfect story. And with a little bit of planning and intention, you can take truly beautiful images – even between feedings and baby snuggles.

In fact, that’s exactly why I created this personal Fresh 48 DIY photo guide. Sometimes you want to be the one behind the lens for those quiet in-between moments. Maybe you’re not quite ready for visitors, or baby arrived before you had time to book a session. You still deserve to capture it all.

Now, keep in mind… babies have their own schedules, hospital lighting isn’t always dreamy, and you’re probably running on adrenaline and takeout. That’s why this guide was made for real life. It takes out the guesswork and gives you a simple plan, with just enough structure to make it feel manageable, not overwhelming.

Let’s look at a few things you’ll find inside the guide to give you a head start.

What’s Actually in the Guide? Here’s a Sneak Peek

I won’t give it all away (because I want you to grab the full guide for the really good stuff), but here’s a glimpse of what I walk you through.

1. Must-Have Baby Items for Natural Photos

This isn’t a long list of props – just the essentials that make a big difference in how your images come out.

• A baby outfit, size and color
• Ideal materials
• Accessories to bring!

2. Optional Details to Add a Personal Touch

These extra items aren’t required, but goodness, they’re sweet.

• Mementos, additional clothing and mom accessories

The guide suggests simple outfit sources too – so you’re not guessing what brand or style creates that cozy, timeless feel.

3. Bonus Pro Tips to Set the Scene

These are the behind-the-scenes tips even professional photographers use – and they’re gold when you’re trying to DIY.

• These bonus tips help you answer where and when to take your fresh 48 photos

Your Fresh 48 Photography Guide: DIY Tips for Beautiful Newborn Memories

Welcoming a new baby into the world is a whirlwind – of emotions, of swaddles and snuggles, of figuring out feeding schedules and (let’s be honest) surviving on very little sleep. But in the middle of all that magic and mayhem, there’s this short, sacred window called the Fresh 48. It’s that golden stretch of time in the hospital before you head home, when everything still feels new. Raw. Powerful.

Whether you’re figuring out how to freeze those early hours forever, or just want something more personal than a phone snap, I’ve got something to help: a free starter guide for taking your own stunning Fresh 48 photos.

And it’s not just a random checklist – it’s packed with the kind of hands-on advice I’d share if I were right there with you in that hospital room, camera in hand. Because I’ve been there, as a mama myself, camera-ready (and not-so-camera-ready), and I know how fast those first hours slip away.

Let’s make sure you capture the kind of memories you’ll treasure later.

Planning Photos in a Hospital Room? Totally Doable

Here’s the truth: a perfect photo doesn’t need a studio backdrop or elaborate setup. Your family’s first hours together already make the perfect story. And with a little bit of planning and intention, you can take truly beautiful images – even between feedings and baby snuggles.

In fact, that’s exactly why I created this personal Fresh 48 DIY guide. Sometimes you want to be the one behind the lens for those quiet in-between moments. Maybe you’re not quite ready for visitors, or baby arrived before you had time to book a session. You still deserve to capture it all.

Now, keep in mind… babies have their own schedules, hospital lighting isn’t always dreamy, and you’re probably running on adrenaline and takeout. That’s why this guide was made for real life. It takes out the guesswork and gives you a simple plan, with just enough structure to make it feel manageable, not overwhelming.

Let’s look at a few things you’ll find inside the guide to give you a head start.

What’s Actually in the Guide? Here’s a Sneak Peek

I won’t give it all away (because I want you to grab the full guide for the really good stuff), but here’s a glimpse of what I walk you through.

1. Must-Have Baby Items for Natural Photos

This isn’t a long list of props – just the essentials that make a big difference in how your images come out.

• A neutral baby outfit in a soft color and NB size (think cream or white – let those tiny toes peek out!)
• A gauze or waffle knit blanket for soft texture and gentle tones
• A letterboard for baby’s birth details – and yes, giving your partner a task like this is genius!

2. Optional Details to Add a Personal Touch

These extra items aren’t required, but goodness, they’re sweet.

• Your ultrasound photo as a “before + after” memento
• Mom’s robe or headband to coordinate gently with baby’s outfit
• A special stuffed animal or keepsake blanket

The guide suggests simple outfit sources too – from Little Planet by Carter’s to Colored Organics – so you’re not guessing what brand or style creates that cozy, timeless feel.

3. Bonus Pro Tips to Set the Scene

These are the behind-the-scenes tips even professional photographers use – and they’re gold when you’re trying to DIY.

• How to style your hospital bed backdrop so it’s clean, not cluttered
• Where to find the best natural light in your room (no lighting kit required)
• Easy angles to capture baby fingers, toes, and the bassinet card

Why These First Moments Matter So Much

We blink, and babies change. It’s wild. One week they’re tucked into that hospital blanket, the next week they’re outgrowing it. Fresh 48 images feel different because they take us back to that very beginning – not a polished portrait, but a real-life love story starting to unfold.

And for moms especially, these photos remind us: we did that.

That’s why I care so much about helping you either create that magic yourself or trust someone who truly gets it to do it for you.

Want the Full Guide? It’s Yours for Free

If you’re nesting hard and want a little project that feels meaningful before baby arrives, or even if baby’s already on the way – this free Fresh 48 Prep Guide is yours. It’ll make you feel more confident showing up behind your own camera (or handing it off to your partner).

You’ll get quick tips, store suggestions, and down-to-earth advice from someone who really knows babies don’t always follow the plan.

👉 Click here to subscribe. Your first email will include your free guide.

And hey – if you read all this and thought, “This sounds so sweet… but I don’t want to do any of it myself,” I see you. You’ve got a whole new human to care for. If you want someone to come in, take care of every detail, and just let you be in the moment with your baby, I’d love to be that person.

My Fresh 48 sessions are gentle, relaxed, and completely baby-led – no pressure, no fuss, just beautiful, real memories in those first hours together.

Let’s capture your beginning. You’ll be so glad you did.

Newborn and Family Photography

Hey there, I am Marie! A wife and mama of three littles. Picking up my camera and freezing special stages in everyone’s lives brings a smile to my face. I would love to serve you and other families in the greater Pittsburgh, Beaver, Cranberry Township, Robinson Township and Wexford PA areas. Click here to get in touch with me! Make sure to follow along on Instagram and see the latest laughs!