Your child is only a newborn once and we’re sure you want to capture those precious first moments with your new family member. The memories captured with your newborn will last a lifetime, so it’s worth leaving the photography to a trusted professional.

Bella Baby photographers are on-site every day at a plethora of hospitals around the U.S. to capture your most precious moments after delivery. We want to make sure you get the best photos possible, so understanding how our process works can help you prepare.

How does the process work?

Each new family is offered a complimentary photo session that takes place right in your hospital room. Parents and siblings are encouraged to participate to create a beautiful family experience. There’s absolutely no obligation to buy your photos.

Viewing of your photos is made available within an hour of your session with a custom online slideshow posted to the Bella Baby website (protected with a unique password), thus enabling distant friends and family members the opportunity to share the experience. Online viewing and ordering are offered for two weeks to anyone with whom you choose to share your password; immediate in-hospital purchasing is also available.

Some common questions from moms:

1. How long does a newborn photo shoot take?

Our in-hospital photo shoots provide the ultimate convenience compared to newborn photo shoots that take place in a studio. Studio shoots can take upwards of four hours! Our professional photographers meet you where you are to make the process seamless so you can get back to caring for your new family member. Our photographers are in and out of your hospital room in less than 30 minutes.

2. When will my photo shoot take place?

We typically photograph all babies on their first full day at the hospital. It is also possible for your shoot to take place on the day before discharge. Generally, we do not take photos on the day of discharge unless there is a medical reason for the delay.

3. My husband won’t return to the hospital until late in the day. Can the session be done then?

We always encourage husbands and siblings to participate if they are available at the time of the shoot, but we may not be at the hospital late in the day. We will try to accommodate you as much as our schedule permits.

4. Should we bring a special blanket?

We absolutely encourage you to bring a favorite baby blanket or afghan from home to use in the shoot. A beautiful blanket can add texture, color, and memories to your newborn’s photos. Many parents bring a pacifier as well. Moms provide additional advice on what to bring with you to the hospital in this post.

5. How can I prepare for the shoot?

We love to include mom and dad’s hands in our photos. Wear clear or neutral nail polish on the day of your shoot. Distracting jewelry should be removed; your baby should be the focus of the photos.

Bring a dark-colored shirt to wear in the photos; we may photograph your baby in your arms and solid/dark colors look great in both color and black-and-white prints. We recommend avoiding any busy prints. You might also want to pack some makeup so you can touch up before your shoot — a bit of under-eye concealer and mascara to brighten the eyes and pressed powder to remove shine.

6. My baby is in the NICU, can I still have a photo shoot?

Yes, let your nurse know you are interested in Bella Baby pictures and sign the consent form. The session will be completed when the nurse tells us the baby is ready for pictures.

7. Which hospitals are you in?

For the most up-to-date information on our contracted hospitals please contact the Customer Service department in your state. You can find the number and email by entering your zip code here.

Are you expecting? We would love to capture those first precious moments with your newborn. Find a photographer near you and feel free to reach out to us with any additional questions.

Before your baby arrives, also check out 10 Ways to Make Birth Announcements Fun and Easy.