Nashville Newborn Photographer

As a mom and a Nashville newborn photographer with over 15 years of experience, 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.

Your Newborn Portrait Experience

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of photographing hundreds of Nashville families. I understand that preparing for photos can feel overwhelming. So I’ve designed a newborn portrait experience that feels effortless to new parents. I take care of every detail so you can simply arrive, relax, and enjoy watching your baby’s first portraits come to life.

When you arrive, everything will be ready and waiting. 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.

She was so patient and gentle with our baby, and made the whole experience relaxed and enjoyable. The attention to detail, creativity, and love she puts into her work truly shows in every single picture

Brittany, Nashville, TN mom

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?”

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.

For more information, I’ve written a blog for parents on when to schedule newborn photos.

After your baby is born, simply contact me to reserve your newborn photos. All newborn sessions take place in my Hendersonville studio when babies are 8–21 days old. I schedule Monday through Friday and will provide you with available times during your baby’s first three weeks.

How Much Does Newborn Photography Cost?

Researching pricing for newborn photos is such a smart step when choosing your photographer. You’ll find a wide range of prices, and it often comes down to the photographer’s experience, whether the session is in a studio or at home, and what’s included — digital files, printed artwork, or albums.

At Shannon Payne Photography, I offer three different newborn photography packages designed to fit your family’s needs. Every session includes:

• Customized studio newborn session

• Portraits of your baby alone

• Portraits with family included

• Access to my Client Closet

• A set number of edited digital images

Newborn sessions begin at $850, with most families investing between $850–$1500.

Preparing for Your Newborn Session

Once your baby arrives, I want you to be excited (not stressed) for your newborn session. I do everything I can to make the experience as easy and relaxing as possible.

You’ll receive my 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.

What to Expect at My Nashville Newborn Studio

• Welcome & Tour – When you arrive at the studio, I’ll give you a quick tour before we head into the newborn room to begin your session.

• Baby-Only Photos – If your baby arrives asleep (thanks to the car ride!), we’ll 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.

• Breaks & Flexibility – 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 extra snuggles, we’ll pause and take care of them before continuing.

• Family Photos – Once newborn setups are complete, we’ll move on to family and sibling portraits. This is your time to snuggle, kiss, and love on your baby—some of the most meaningful photos from your session.

• Older Siblings – If siblings are joining, I recommend bringing them about an hour into the session. This helps avoid boredom (and saves you from chasing them around the studio). We’ll also capture their happiest smiles when they come in fresh to meet their new baby.

• Session Length – Most newborn sessions last around two hours, allowing time for feedings, soothing, and a relaxed pace.

What is Included in Your Newborn Session

Studio & Props

My studio is fully stocked with everything we need to create timeless newborn portraits:

• Fabric backdrops

• Soft wraps and textured layers

• Headbands, floral crowns, knit hats, and bonnets

• A variety of props

No need to bring a thing!

Client Closet

I also offer a carefully curated client closet with:

• Dresses for moms and big sisters

• Neutral shirts for dads and big brothers

No stress or hassle of outfit planning!

Posing & Styling

Before your session, you’ll fill out a questionnaire with your style preferences, favorite colors, and must-have poses. I’ll use that to thoughtfully plan every detail.

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. Your input helps me custom style your session for your family.

Baby’s First Year Milestones

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

Serving Nashville and Middle TN Area Families

My studio is located in Hendersonville, just a short drive from Nashville. I regularly welcome families from Brentwood, Franklin, Gallatin, Mt. Juliet, and across Middle Tennessee. Wherever you’re coming from, I strive to make your newborn session worth the trip.

Ready to Book Your Newborn Photography Session?

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 your 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.