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  • What is a Fresh 48 Session?

    What is a Fresh 48 Session?

    What is a fresh 48 session? Let’s talk about it!

    Fresh 48 sessions are done in the hospital within 24-48 hours of birth. This depends on the type of birth you have and the length of your stay. Fresh 48 sessions are un-posed and focus on your baby’s freshness. The newborn curls, soft skin, and little toes. Fresh 48 sessions are great for those who prefer a more organic feel in their photos.

    Fresh 48 sessions are offered with photos and the option to add a video. These sessions are meant for immediate family only. Meaning parents and kiddos. A lot of parents use this as a way to document their older kiddos meeting the newest addition to the family.

    We love Fresh 48 sessions so much and have packages for them included in our first-year package. Our first-year package includes maternity, fresh 48 or newborn, and a cake smash! We also offer a premier first-year package that includes a sitter session to document every stage of that first year. Contact me for details and follow along on social media.

    We capture fresh 48 sessions are the following local hospitals. If you don’t see your hospital listed, just reach out! We travel in the east valley, to Scottsdale, to downtown Phoenix. 

    Banner Desert Medical Center

    Banner Gateway Medical Center

    Mercy Gilbert 

    Chandler Regional

    If you’re delivering your baby at a birth center, we offer in home fresh 48 sessions! These take place in your home 24-72 hours after birth. We will bring a moses basket and some neutral texture layers as you can see below. 

     

                                         

     

     

  • See a Phoenix studio maternity session

    See a Phoenix studio maternity session

    See highlights of a studio maternity photo session in Phoenix

    When I started my journey to become a maternity photographer in Phoenix,  I started dreaming about my own photography studio.

    I knew that I wanted to be unique and I did not want to be like a big box retail portrait studio. I wanted to take maternity portraits that would set you apart from what everyone else took. Embrace all sizes, colors, and shapes of women. And that is exactly what I did. I offer outfits in my client closet from XS to XXXL. I offer outfit colors to complement every skin tone. Because of this – my client base has grown to reach so many and I am so honored to capture so many moms on their journey. Now let’s chat about the most asked questions I get as a maternity photographer in Phoenix. 

    Plus side maternity photographer in Phoenix Plus side maternity photographer in Phoenix

    When should I take my maternity pictures?

    For those looking to capture the essence of pregnancy through photography, timing is crucial. I  suggest scheduling a maternity photo session between the 26th and 34th weeks of pregnancy. This timeframe ensures that your baby bump is beautifully rounded and prominently displayed, showcasing the full beauty of this special stage while you remain comfortable and mobile. The majority of our pregnant mothers reach out early in their second trimester to get their maternity session on the calendar.

    There are some things to consider however. If you’re having multiples, you should shoot closer to 20-23 weeks. If you’re a mother of 2+, I’d also recommend scheduling sooner as you tend to show sooner in subsequent pregnancies. Whenever you’re in doubt about scheduling your maternity photos, just reach out and I’ll be happy to help! My goal when I decided to become a maternity photographer was to make this process as easy as I can for you. 

    black mother in jeweled two piece outfit for maternity portrait session in phoenix maternity studioAfrican American mother posing in white dress for maternity pictures in phoenix portrait studio

    What Are the Different Set-Ups Used in Studio Maternity Sessions?

    In studio maternity photography, I use three distinct set-ups  to capture the unique beauty and bond of your motherhood journey. Each offers a different aesthetic, catering to various stylistic preferences.

    1. White Backdrop 

    The first set-up utilizes a pristine white backdrop. This configuration creates a bright, timeless look that beautifully highlights the emotional connection between mother and child. The simplicity of the white-on-white theme brings a peaceful elegance to the images. This setting is versatile, allowing for poses either in a lace gown, an all-white dress, or even artistically styled nudes with mindful covering techniques.

    African American couple posing for phoenix photographer for studio maternity session.Pregnant mother in jeweled maternity gown in editorial maternity session in PhoenixPregnant mother posing for maternity session with white mens shirt in Phoenix

    2. Black Backdrop

    The second option features a deep black backdrop, perfect for crafting dramatic, high-contrast fine art photographs. This set-up is ideal for accentuating the pregnant form with strategic lighting, creating powerful, striking visuals. Typically, these sessions are shot in the nude, focusing on the contours and essence of pregnancy.

    black and white maternity silhouette portrait at luxury maternity photographer studioblack and white maternity silhouette photographer

    3. Gray Backdrop

    Lastly, the gray backdrop offers a classic yet subtle option, often used together with draperies or tasteful nude poses. This set-up is particularly favored for converting images into black and white during post-production, adding texture and depth for added visual interest. The gray tones provide a balanced background that can deliver both drama and softness. Because this color is so versatile, this is one of our most chosen backdrops. 

    phoenix maternity studio black and white imageMom posing in jeans and white shirt for maternity session in PhoenixBlack pregnant mother posing in jeweled maternity gown for studio maternity photoshoot in phoenix

    Each set-up provides a unique way to celebrate the beauty of pregnancy, ensuring that the images are as memorable as the moment itself.

    How do I book my maternity photos? 

    When you find the perfect maternity photographer in Phoenix for your session (me!) all you have to do is submit a contact form

    And don’t forget to follow along on Instagram for the latest photos and inspiration for your upcoming maternity session. 

  • Glam Studio Maternity Portrait Session

    Glam Studio Maternity Portrait Session

    Planning Your Studio Maternity Portrait Session

    This maternity portrait session is everything! Are you ready for some glam? This momma brought it for the photoshoot. A mixture of studio glam and our brick room. This session brought a perfect mix of glam and softness.

    One of my most prized possessions is our angel wings. The angel wings can be used with any of our in-studio maternity sessions. If you’ve ever wanted to feel like a V.S. model, this is your chance!

    pregnancy photoshoot mesa az, baby bump photographer near me

    With any of our maternity sessions, you can add the option to have your hair and makeup done in the studio. Just like Sondra did! You’ll arrive roughly 1.5 hours before your session and relax. One of our talented makeup artists will turn you into the most flawless version of yourself you could imagine. Whether you want full glam studio maternity portrait session or a more natural look, our artists have you covered. And follow along with us on Instagram.

    pregnancy photoshoot mesa az, baby bump photographer near me, Studio Maternity Portrait Session
  • Mesa, AZ Newborn Portrait Session

    Mesa, AZ Newborn Portrait Session

    Sugar, spice, and everything nice. That is what these two sisters are made of!

    These colors came together so perfectly. Newborn sessions are completely customizable. From colors, poses, props, and more. We work with you to go over our collection of items and create a session of your dreams! Newborn sessions are all shot in our studio which is located in Mesa, Arizona. Our newborn photography studio has everything you’ll need for your session. Including snacks, drinks, wipes, diapers, and more! If you need it, we have it.

    How long do newborn sessions last? That is a great question! While it depends on your package, our most popular packages last 2-3 hours. While our petite package is 30-60 minutes. This session you see below was about 2 hours with soothing, cuddles, food breaks, and adjusting for the baby’s comfort. That last part is key!

    While some babies may take a few tries to get into position, we never ever force your baby to go into a position that they don’t like. This means that sometimes we have to adjust our planned setups. Some babies truly don’t love being naked, while others don’t love being wrapped. Thankfully we have props to accommodate all of their likes and dislikes.

    We are currently booking newborns through February 2024. We only accept 5-7 newborns a month to ensure that when your baby is born we can get them on the calendar. Ready to get your session on the calendar? Submit a contact form and let’s chat!

  • A Classic Studio Maternity Session

    A Classic Studio Maternity Session

    Not all studio maternity sessions are glam gowns. Some are classic white shirts, black tops that never go out of style, and timeless robes.

    Simran came into our studio to celebrate her pregnancy and capture these moments that will be gone so soon. She went with our Premier Package which includes professional hair and makeup. Who doesn’t want to feel their absolute best during their maternity session? Mama chose these outfits from our client’s closet. Never worry about clothes that either don’t fit your current body or clothes you’ll never wear again.

    Our client closet has sizes from XS to 3x! So many of our outfits are adjustable to accommodate many sizes. From sleek gowns, to classic tops, and more. We have everything you could dream of to make your maternity dreams come true. If you’re expecting, or want to gift someone you love a session, send us a message and we can set you up! Most moms set their session up for when they are 29-33 weeks along. Our maternity studio is located in Mesa, Arizona on Gilbert and Southern.

  • Getting Your Proof Gallery Of Studio Maternity Photos

    Getting Your Proof Gallery Of Studio Maternity Photos

    When you take your studio maternity photos it’s a multistep process to get your images back. First step is a proof gallery! A proof gallery showcases the best images from your sessions, unedited, so that YOU can choose the images you want edited. As much as I’d love my favorite images to be your favorite images, they never are. I want to make sure you have the option to pick the images you love best from your session to have fully edited to print. Here are some examples on what you can expect from a proof gallery and what it looks like in a final edited image.

    It’s easy to think that everyone comes in with perfect skin that is flawless. The truth is most of this is done in post process, aka, editing! And fear not, if you don’t want your skin to be photoshopped to this degree, we are happy to leave you a bit more natural. This is something that would need to be communicated PRIOR to the editing process. My goal with your maternity session is to bring your perfect vision to life. However that may look!

    Studio maternity is a little different than our outdoor maternity sessions. We focus on a high end, power vibe. We want you to look as powerful as you feel! Bringing a new baby into this world is a lot of work, and you’re doing it!

    Next up is your backdrop. This is almost ALWAYS adjusted and extended in photoshop.

    We cannot wait for you to see your images! If you have more questions after receiving your images, never hesitate to reach out. If you just can’t wait to get your studio maternity session on the calendar, submit a contact form https://shanynnicole.com/contact and we will get you on the calendar!

  • Sunset maternity session with the sweetest pup

    Sunset maternity session with the sweetest pup

    See Highlights of Mesa, AZ Maternity Portrait Session

    She is magic. And so much more!

    This sunset maternity portrait session was really so much fun. This mama, dad, and big sis showed up ready! Mama wore dresses from our client’s closet. Which makes your day SO easy! Providing gowns for your session takes the stress off of your plate. Never worry about buying a dress (or dresses) you’ll never wear again!

    With your session, a 30-minute consultation is included with your session. This allows you to come in about 3 weeks prior to your session to try on dresses and make sure you find something you love. This is for our studio maternity sessions and outside sunset maternity sessions.

    This deluxe maternity session took place at my favorite location in Mesa. The weather lately here in Arizona has been so wild. Leaving our desert filled with lush greenery! It’s truly a dream. I just cannot believe we live in such a beautiful place!

    If you’re in your second trimester, it’s time to book your maternity session! I only shoot on two Saturdays per month. So if you must have a Saturday maternity portrait sunset session, book ASAP! Don’t forget to follow along on Instagram.

     

  • Mesa, AZ Petite Newborn Session

    Mesa, AZ Petite Newborn Session

    She put up a fight during her petite newborn session, but we won! This sweet girl was not super interested in sleeping for her petite newborn session. But eventually, at the 11th hour, she passed out and we made mamas dreams come true! This pink and neutral color pallet was really so much fun to put together. It will flow so beautifully in an album or with wall art!

    Our petite newborn sessions are best done 7-14 days after the baby has been born. All of our newborn sessions are done in our studio located in Gilbert and Southern in Mesa. With all of our newborn sessions, you have access to our HUGE collection of props and accessories. Just show up with baby! While you relax, eat some snacks, and we will create some magic for you to cherish forever. Contact me for details and follow along for more updates on Instagram.

  • Banx – Gilbert, AZ Cake Smash Session

    Banx – Gilbert, AZ Cake Smash Session

    You may recognize these two in this cake smash session from IG. Alex and Kellz reached out for me to photograph their sweetest son Banx! We added on family portraits prior to the cake smash and truly, they’re all so amazing. Banx was showing off his best serious face with some hints of smiles in between.

    Our deluxe cake smash is ALWAYS the best time. With portraits prior to the cake smash, a styled set, and just enough pictures to complete a memorable photo album. Alex added on family portraits prior to some portraits of Banx alone. Brick room sessions are perfect any time of the year. Too hot? We have A/C! Too cold, we have the heater!

    When creating your cake smash session, cohesiveness is key. Choosing sets and colors that flow together to create a seamless look without perfectly matching! I am currently booking cake smashes through January 2024. With our first-year package, you get first access to our calendar! Meaning you never have to worry about me ending up fully booked, your spot is always saved!

  • When To Book Your Cake Smash Session

    When To Book Your Cake Smash Session

    Thinking about planning a cake smash session for your baby’s 1st birthday?

    Does your babe have a birthday coming up? Let’s celebrate in style! The best time to book your cake smash is really dependent on your need for the images. If you’re wanting the cake smash pictures back to display at a first birthday or to use for invitations, you’ll want to book the session for when the baby is around 11 months old. If you want to capture the true 1-year-old essence, book closer to their first birthday.

    All of our cake smash sessions are totally custom. This means your ideas come to life with planning, my expertise, and a custom cake from our baker! In addition to your styled cake smash set, we also do portraits on a classic background with our deluxe and all-out cake smash. This can be any color you’d like, and we have so many to choose from, with outfits to coordinate for each one.

    When you book your cake smash you will get a questionnaire that goes over your vision. This is your time to get as specific as you’d like for your cake smash. After your questionnaire is submitted, and prior to your session, we will send you helpful tips on how to prepare for your session. Not every baby loves cake right away, but don’t worry we will help you prepare.

    Most parents book their babe’s cake smash 3-6 months prior to the session date. This allows enough time to plan, order any props I may need, and prep your babe for their session! This is a time to celebrate. We are here to make this as fun and easy as possible.

    Ready to book your cake smash session? Head to our contact page to get set up!