Maryland Newborn Photography // Baby Anna // Posed Session

Awake babies seem to be my thing these days! The following post contains a lot of wide awake shots, but they happen to be adorable, so I bet you won’t mind! You’ll also get to see a bunch of sweet little outfits and props and a loving cousin and fur brother. So, trust me, it’s worth your time!

Baby Anna is my sister’s husband’s sister’s baby. (That sounds like the beginning of a long-winded joke, doesn’t it?) My sister’s in-laws are close with my family and I am so grateful for that. We have one amazing thing in common - my nephew, Tommy. Both sets of his grandparents love him dearly and his presence in our lives has brought us even closer than even the wedding did. I often feel like I got a bonus family! I know it isn’t that way for everyone. I consider myself one lucky girl!

This closeness not only means I got to be a part of documenting some of Anna’s first days in this world, it also meant the session itself was extremely relaxing. Working with people you know and love means the atmosphere is calm from the very beginning of the shoot. It’s why I offer client meet-ups prior to their newborn session. Sometimes, it’s nice to get to know the person who will be up close and personal with your brand new baby! In this case, everyone in the room already knew each other quite well. We were off to a good start!

Even with a pretty full meal right before and in the middle of our shoot, Anna clearly did not want to fall asleep. She was bright-eyed when I arrived, as she ate, and when we laid her back down again. Sometimes I get so caught up in wanting them to sleep, I don’t realize they are happy being awake! ​

This was the case with Anna, just like it was with my last newborn, Colin. Babies who refuse to sleep can’t necessarily be posed in exactly the ways us adults want, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t cute! In fact, many parents I work with end up loving their babies awake shots more than the sleeping ones. They say those photos show more personality!

Whatever your preference is, you can’t deny Anna is precious awake or asleep. She went through several outfit changes without a single complaint. And let me tell you, these outfits were just so delightful. From ruffled bloomers to a football themed tutu to a mermaid tail adorned with pearls, I barely contained my squeals as I saw her in each one. I am blabbering on a bit about how sweet and lovely she was, but the photos truly speak for themselves.

Towards the end of the shoot, Anna did finally close her eyes and rest. That’s when we let big fur brother, Murphy, and big cousin, Tommy, into our little session area. We tried very hard to get all three of them in one shot, but I’m sure you can imagine how difficult that was! Seeing them interact with this tiny little girl was just magical. It was amazing to see the little boy I love so much show such affection for his cousin! And I absolutely believe Murphy knows he is her protector. Once again - the photos speak for themselves! ​