I’ve been photographing this family since they were expecting their first baby — a boy who is now ten years old and, understandably, a little too cool for me. Over the years, I’ve watched them grow from first-time parents into a family with depth, grief, and resilience. Returning to their home for newborn photos with their newest little boy felt like being invited back into a familiar story.
This newborn session took place on a cloudy, mild fall day here in Charlottesville. The light was soft, steady, and grey. As a Charlottesville newborn photographer, even when we’re shooting inside at home, I still appreciate an overcast day. It slows things down and makes space for quieter moments. The weather always brings its own energy to a session; I don’t even mind how wildly unpredictable it is. As long as it’s not fully pouring, I’m probably just going to embrace it for whatever it brings the day.
We started in the nursery while getting baby dressed, then meandered down the stairs and into the living room and the kitchen table and an open chess board. Eventually, we stepped outside for a few minutes of fresh air and play around the yard. We weren’t trying to recreate any specific poses or capture a baby who slept through everything. We simply wanted to pay attention to the way it feels.
A newborn, wide-eyed and taking it all in.
A toddler, curious and climbing, desperate to keep up with his big brother.
And that big brother — guitar-playing, skateboard-loving, and impossibly tender with his siblings.
Newborn Sessions with Older Siblings
One of the biggest hesitations I hear from families considering an at-home newborn session is this: “What if my other kids don’t cooperate?”
The truth is — they probably won’t. At least not in the way you might imagine. And that’s okay. It’s actually welcome because that would be really boring.
As a newborn photographer, I’m also a family photographer – and I want to see and hear and know the parts of family that are a little unhinged and rough around the edges. It’s what makes family photos feel less like some performative scene and more like a beautiful day with your favorite people.
I don’t expect siblings – at any age, toddler to teen – to sit still and smile for long stretches. I expect wandering and playing and personality. I expect energy. I expect snack breaks and Lego distractions and moments where someone needs a reset. The session flows around the rhythm of your home and your children — not the other way around.
Learn More about Newborn Sessions
Newborn sessions don’t need a spotless house or perfectly coordinated outfits. They don’t require a sleepy baby or siblings who perform on cue. They’re simply an opportunity to notice and honor the way your family is changing and becoming.
If you’re expecting a new baby and wondering how a session might work in your home — especially with older kids in the mix — you can learn more about newborn sessions with me here.
These early days pass quietly and quickly. You don’t have to make them look like anyone else’s. Just let them be yours and hold them with love.
