November 11th, 2023

I have photographed fresh 48 sessions at many hospitals in Utah County area but this session was so fun. This beautiful family welcomed their second son at American Fork Hospital and they were so excited to document the first hours with their new addition. It was my first time photographing a fresh 48 session with a little sibling so I was so excited! If you are considering to have a fresh 48 session, I am sharing with you today most frequently asked questions for these unique sessions.

01. What is a fresh 48 session?
A fresh 48 session is a special session for families who want their baby’s first hours documented including those unique newborn details without having the entire labor and delivery photographed. Those first hours and days after delivery often pass in such a blur. These sessions are perfect for holding onto those tiny toes and newborn details for a lifetime. 

02. Where does the session take place?

In your hospital Postpartum room. I ask parents to notify me once you are being admitted into the labor and delivery room and once again when your baby is born. The session takes place the morning after, typically between 10 am and 3 pm. Sessions will last about 60 minutes. My goal is to photograph the baby and then the family together allowing time to go back to rest. You will know the time that I will be coming in when you notify me and we can plan to have siblings to visit at the same time. Grandparents are also welcomed to join the session. 

03. When should I book the session?
The sooner the better. I am on call starting at 37 weeks and until baby is born. I am flexible and work on baby schedule. When you book your session, your due date will be added to my calendar, this way I can guarantee and plan in advanced that I will be available the moment you call. 

04. What should I bring to the hospital?
To make the most of this unique session proper preparation is key. My preparation guide has everything you need to know and you will receive this guide upon booking your session. I also include helpful tips with links for what to wear to your session. I always recommend,  a robe for moms, a simple white onesie for baby, neutral colors for the rest of the family and to keep it simple. These photos will become one of your most treasured memories, you will look back on and remember these sweet moments.

05. What if baby needs to be in the NICU?
In this event we will stay in touch and communicate. We will have to work with the hospital staff to find what we are or aren’t able to do. In the event that I am not able to photograph your session due to these circumstances. Your retainer will be applied to a future session. This session can also be photographed at home once baby is discharged from the hospital or at my natural light studio.

06. How to book your session?
Please fill out the contact form, including your due date, hospital name, a few details about your family and any additional questions that you may have. I will reply back within 1-2 business days with availability and pricing. A session retainer is required as well as a singed contract to secure your date in my calendar. Your final payment will be due the day of your session. 

07. What happens next?
You will receive a sneak peek within 24 hours of your session so that you can share  with family and friends the happy news! Your final gallery will be ready three weeks after your session. 

I am currently booking Fresh 48 sessions at American Fork Hospital, Hospitals located in Utah County area and Salt Lake City. Please contact me if you are looking for a photographer to document these sweet moments for your family. Looking for what to bring in your hospital bag? read here :What to pack in your hospital bag| Iris Graciela Photography


Testimonial: Iris is amazing!! She knows her stuff when it comes to working with lighting. We used her when we did our fresh 48 pictures in the hospital and finding the right lighting in those rooms can be so hard! She was an expert at moving things around to create the best picture. She was also so personal and knew how to work with not only our newborn but our little toddler too (which can be difficult). She even thought through bringing a special picture book for our toddler. It was so sweet! I highly recommend using Iris. She’s the best!

-Allissa Kelley.