How to Prepare for your Fresh 48 Session ( A Winnipeg Parent's Checklist)
I sound like a broken record, but those first hours and days after baby arrives is a whirlwind, and it's also filled with moments you'll never get back. And while everyone tells you to “rest” or “enjoy it while it lasts,” it’s hard to know what that even means when you’re recovering, feeding, and figuring out this tiny human and what parenthood is all about.
A Fresh 48 session is here to help you capture those perfectly imperfect first moments. The best part? You don’t have to be “ready” for it. You don’t have to be perfect. This guide is just a gentle checklist to help you feel prepared, and hopefully, confident!
Understand What a Fresh 48 Session Can Feel Like
I try to keep Fresh 48 sessions peaceful and unposed. I come to your hospital room or home birth location and document your baby exactly as they are.
There’s no pressure to perform or look a certain way. The focus is on your baby and your connection, those sleepy yawns, tiny stretches, soft skin, and the quiet pauses where you just take each other in. I will guide you gently and never put you or your baby into uncomfortable positions.
Let Me Know When You’re in Labor
You don’t need to update me constantly. A simple message when you’re admitted and/or when your baby arrives is enough. That way I can plan around your schedule and be ready to capture those first hours. It's a good idea to have your partner on board with the session details so they can be the ones to get in touch with me if needed.
Packing a Light Hospital Bag for the Session
You don’t need anything fancy. I've had a hospital birth twice, one a cesarean and one a VBAC, so I have a few tips! A few thoughtful items are all it takes:
- A simple swaddle or outfit for baby (as many outfits as you want but you really only need the one going home outfit)
- Extra receiving blanket (hot tip, those hospital blankets make a great keepsake, but you didn't hear that from me lol)
- Phone and charger
- Water bottle and lip balm for you (but also don't forget about snacks for your support partner)
- Hair tie, comfy clothes (you won't know what you'll be most comfortable in until afterwards so bring a few options for yourself)
- Bluetooth speakers if you want your playlist in the background
Nothing else is required. You’ll be focused on resting and bonding, not on packing for a photoshoot!
Preparing Baby (No Pressure)
Baby doesn’t need a bath (they typically don't get their first baths until 12 hours old anyway) or a perfectly timed feed (this doesn't exist for the first while). They will be themselves, and that’s exactly what we want to capture. Keep them warm, comfortable, and fed as needed and I’ll photograph around all the little moments in between.
Preparing Yourself
Comfort is KEY!
- A soft robe or comfy top works beautifully
- Hospital gown? Totally fine
- Just your nursing bra and mesh undies? Perfect
- More comfortable staying in your bed? Not a problem.
- Just focus on feeling safe, rested, and present
- If you have the energy to do your hair and makeup, have at it, but it's not necessary for this session.
The real magic is in your connection, not your appearance.
What Happens During the Session
Fresh 48 sessions are usually 45–60 minutes. During that time, I capture:
- Baby details: hands, feet, hair, umbilical stump
- Skin-to-skin moments (if you choose)
- Feeding or soothing
- Parents and siblings interacting naturally
- Your post party body (if you choose)
- Room details
There’s no hard posing or rushing. Everything flows with your baby’s rhythm. If medical staff need to make a check then we pause and let them do their job. Your session time never gets cut short.
Winnipeg-Specific Notes
- St. Boniface and HSC Women's Hospitals in Winnipeg all have different lighting and room layouts. I’ve photographed in them all and know how to make each space work. Some rooms are more ideal than others but we make it work.
- Ode'imin (previously the Birth Centre) discharges patients around the 4 hour mark so if you plan on having baby here then please plan to have your fresh 48 session in your home.
One More Gentle Reminder:
You don’t need to be ready, perfect, or organized. Fresh 48 sessions are designed to work around you and your baby. The tiny details you’ll forget in the chaos of those first hours are what I’m here to capture.
