If we had to choose a theme for the May 2026 contest winners, it would be clean & simple. Everything about this month’s winning images highlights the beauty that comes from a fresh 48 hospital session. We are proud to celebrate these winning images and the photographers behind them. Click play on the video below to see the winners.
Words from the winners
“This baby girl was very calm and sleepy she gave me a great big smile right when I was taking this photo almost like it was on cue! I love making the newborns comfortable enough to relax and sleep through their session.”
Kate Fowler, 2nd place
“Family had a cute banner behind their bed with baby’s name. I asked them if I could move it and the family agreed. I thought it would look better if we moved it from the bed so that we didn’t see all the distractions behind the bed and we moved it next to window. Then, I told the new parents to look at their baby and I snapped the image.”
Faviola Martinez, Honorable mention
Here are a few tips to prepare for a minimalist session like these.
5 tips for a minimalist fresh 48 session
1. Choose neutral or soft color tones for yourself, baby, and older siblings. Bright colors can create unattractive color casting on surrounding elements like a blanket or sheet, and even family members’ faces.
2. Skip items with heavy patterns or large logos. While they may be fun, patterns can be distracting, and we want to keep the focus on your precious bundle of joy.
3. A simple announcement sign or banner make a great addition to the session while keeping the focus on your new arrival. We recommend saving larger props and baskets for another time. These items can be difficult to bring up to your room and they’re one more thing you have to remember to take when you leave.
4. Pack your photoshoot outfit (and any props) early. One outfit or swaddle for baby, and neutral colored shirts for the family are all you need for a memorable photoshoot. Put these items in your hospital bag a few weeks in advance, that way you can be confident that you’re ready for pictures when the time comes.
5. Trust your photographer! Fresh 48 photographers, like those at Bella Baby, specialize in creating beautiful photographs within the confines of a hospital room. You’ll be amazed at what they can do to create a distraction-free environment that still tells the story of your hospital stay.
Final thoughts
Whether you bring a special banner like baby Leon’s family or opt for a neutral swaddle and bow, Bella Baby photographers excel at capturing the beauty of your growing family. If you want a dreamy fresh 48 photoshoot, you can’t go wrong with a minimalist look. Bella Baby’s team of newborn photographers specialize in a clean, natural style and the May 2026 contest winners show it off with flair. Congratulations again to all our May winners!
