A few weeks ago, I posted on Facebook that I was on the lookout for some "third trimester volunteers" to help me expand my {Fresh 48} portfolio.  Alicia responded to the model call and after a few emails, she was willing to let me in on this special moment in her life.  I think a lot of people have questions about this type of session and what all is involved, so I'll walk you through this particular session with Alicia:  

She emailed me a day or so before and let me know when her c-section was scheduled.  Since it was a scheduled birth, it was easy for me to turn around and let her know that I'd be up there in the afternoon around 4:00.  I like to give the family time with the baby, and mama a break from labor or the birthing process before I go in.  When I was on the way, I gave Alicia a call just to double check that it was a good time, and to make sure she was feeling good!  I then arrived at the hospital, taking a few photos of the signage as I walked through the facility to their room, washing my hands on the way up.  Once in the room with the sweet new arrival, I began documenting him in his mama's arms, all swaddled up with his tiny hospital-issued hat on.  The natural way that mamas and daddies hold their babies make some of the best photos.  After a few of sweet little 10 hour old Baby A in his nursery bassinet, some details of his fresh features and my job of documenting this fresh new life was complete.  I gave him a little pat goodbye and was on my way.  I brought the images home and edited them both in color and in black/white, exporting them into a password protected online gallery for Alicia to download at her convenience.

And can I just say how much I love this?  The sweet new features:  little fuzzy hairs, baby toes, sweet wrinkly skin.  The new life that the parents are embarking on starts in these hospital rooms, where they get to know their baby and introduce him into his brand new world.  

Thanks, Alicia, for letting me in and letting me document this time for you!  Best wishes!