Nashville Newborn Photographer

As a Nashville newborn photographer, I can say there is nothing better than holding a newborn baby. The feel of their brand new skin and that fresh baby smell are things you will want to hold on to forever. They say the days go by slowly, but the years go by fast. I know firsthand the truth behind this. If only I could go back and hold my boys as newborns again. These first days will be over before you know it, and you will never regret documenting them. I understand that preparing for photos can feel overwhelming, which is why I have created a newborn portrait experience that takes all of the stress from you. From start to finish, I am here to plan every detail. All you need to do is bring your baby to the studio – I’ll take care of the rest.

When to Schedule Your Newborn Photography Session

I recommend booking your session during your second trimester. This allows us time to communicate and get to know each other before our session. I take a limited number of newborns each month. This will guarantee a spot on my calendar.

One of my most frequently asked questions is: “How do you know when to schedule the session since I don’t know when the baby will arrive?”

I put all of my newborn’s due dates on my calendar. Some babies come early, some come on time, and others come late. I give myself a 2-week window before and after your due date. This allows me to be flexible when it is time to schedule your session and prevents me from overbooking.

Once the baby arrives, I ask that you contact me. I prefer to photograph newborns in my Nashville newborn studio during days 8-21. Sessions are scheduled Monday-Friday. I will send you all of the available days and times during your baby’s 3 week window.

Preparing for Your Newborn Session

Of all the stages I photograph, the newborn session is often the one that causes the most stress for new parents—but it doesn’t have to. I do everything I can to make the experience as easy and relaxing as possible. Once your session is booked, you’ll receive my comprehensive Newborn Planning Guide to help you feel fully prepared. After your baby arrives, I’ll send a reminder email with a checklist of what to bring and how to get ready.

My goal is to make sure you feel informed and confident going into your session. One of the most helpful tips I share is to feed your baby right before leaving home. A full tummy and a car ride usually lead to a sleepy, content baby—the perfect recipe for dreamy newborn portraits. If you’re traveling 30 to 45 minutes to the studio, even better! That extra time often helps your little one settle into a nice deep sleep.

Once you arrive, your only job is to relax. With years of experience handling newborns, I’ll take care of everything while you sit back and enjoy watching your baby’s first portraits come to life.

What to Expect at My Nashville Newborn Studio

When you arrive at the studio, I’ll give you a quick tour before we head into the newborn room to begin your session. If your baby arrives asleep (which is often thanks to the car ride!), we will start with those sweet, sleepy poses. I typically need about 30–45 minutes of deep sleep to capture a full set of baby-only images.

Of course, babies don’t always follow the plan—and that’s perfectly okay! If your little one needs to eat, have a diaper change, or simply wants a few extra snuggles, we’ll take our time to make sure they’re calm and comfortable before continuing.

Once we’ve completed the newborn setups, we’ll move on to family and sibling photos. All of my newborn packages include these images if you’d like them. By this point, babies are usually ready to be wrapped up and cuddled in their parents’ arms, making the family portion of the session feel extra meaningful and tender.

If you have older siblings joining us, I recommend having them arrive about an hour into the session. This helps prevent boredom during the quieter parts of the shoot and gives us the best chance to capture genuine, joyful moments when they see their new baby.

Newborn sessions typically last around two hours, depending on baby’s needs and the flow of the day.

Why Choose Shannon as Your Nashville Newborn Photographer

My studio is fully stocked with everything we need to create beautiful, timeless newborn portraits—gorgeous fabric backdrops, soft wraps, textured layers, headbands, floral crowns, bonnets, props, and more. There’s no need to bring anything for your baby; I have it all prepared for you.

I also offer a carefully curated client closet with dresses for moms and wardrobe options for siblings. These pieces are soft, neutral, and flattering—chosen specifically to photograph beautifully and help you feel your best without the stress of planning outfits.

During the session, your baby will be wrapped or gently posed without clothing, as outfits often distract from their delicate features. The goal is to highlight every tiny detail you want to remember—from their little fingers and toes to those sweet newborn stretches. When you book your session, you’ll fill out a questionnaire to share your style preferences, favorite colors, and any specific poses or looks you love. I use that information to thoughtfully plan your session so everything—from the props to the wardrobe—reflects your vision.

Everything will be set up and ready before you arrive. I also invite you to browse my newborn galleries and blog posts to share any images that speak to you. I want you to have the best newborn experience, and your input helps me tailor your session to be custom styled just for your family.

Many of my newborn clients also book maternity portraits and first year milestone sessions to document the full journey.

Your Nashville Studio for Posed Newborn Portraits

If you’re looking for a studio newborn photographer in Nashville who specializes in posed newborn portraits, my Nashville portrait studio is the perfect place for your session. Every element—from the lighting to the temperature—is carefully controlled to create a calm, cozy environment that keeps your baby comfortable and sleepy.

I know many new parents worry about getting out of the house so soon after birth, but I promise the experience is easier than you think. My studio is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized after every session for your peace of mind. And if you’re concerned about a longer drive—don’t be! In fact, I often find that drives of 30 minutes or more help lull babies into a deep sleep, which is ideal for those sweet, snuggly poses.

When you arrive, everything will be ready and waiting. I take care of it all—from dressing and undressing to diaper changes and soothing. If you’re bringing a bottle, I can even help with feedings. Your only job is to sit back, relax, and enjoy the moment. Many of my clients say their session was the most peaceful few hours they had since baby arrived—and that’s exactly what I strive for. After a few busy, sleep-deprived weeks, you deserve a calm, beautiful experience.

Your baby will only be this tiny once, and these first days are some of the most fleeting and precious you’ll ever experience. As a Nashville newborn photographer, it’s my passion and privilege to preserve this beautiful chapter for you. From planning to photographing to delivering timeless images, I’m here to make the entire process simple, stress-free, and unforgettable. If you’re ready to document your baby’s earliest moments with stunning, heartfelt portraits, I would be honored to be part of your story. Let’s create something beautiful together.

Ready to Book Your Newborn Session?

As a luxury newborn photographer in Nashville, I specialize in creating beautiful portraits of your newborn baby in a calm and cozy setting. Let’s capture these once-in-a-lifetime moments before they pass you by. I take a limited number of newborn sessions each month to ensure every family receives the attention and care they deserve. Booking early—ideally during your second trimester—guarantees a spot on my calendar.

Click here to inquire about availability, ask questions, or start planning your session. I can’t wait to hear from you and help you preserve this beautiful chapter of your life.