Danika, Blake, and baby Carter’s cozy winter newborn session at home

Danika and Blake had such a cozy newborn session at home with their son Carter. Earlier this winter, I photographed their outdoor maternity session, and it felt so special to see and photograph them again in this new chapter of parenthood. They both love photography and value storytelling portraits that feel candid and alive, so we structured their session around documenting the everyday moments of life with a newborn. 

Newborn photoshoots with me follow 'baby time', which means I block off up to 4 hours for the session (even though a session might wrap up in 45 min!) to leave unhurried space for feedings, diaper changes, and soothing. Carter was sleeping peacefully when I arrived, so I spent some time talking with Danika and Blake, reviewing the game plan, and inviting them to share any additional photo ideas or meaningful details they wanted to capture. 

Newborn portraits at home

We started the photoshoot in Danika and Blake’s bedroom where Carter snoozed peacefully in  a cozy bassinet. After they gently stirred him awake, I took several portraits of them holding and snuggling him. Backlit by gorgeous windows covered with freshly fallen snow, these portraits feel so tender and seasonal. 

Next we went to Carter’s nursery, which is filled with astronaut-themed decor and features meaningful art on the walls made by a family member. Here, I photographed Danika and Blake as they soothed Carter, changed his diaper, and fed him. These portraits have a candid feeling, offering a sweet window into the heartfelt daily routines of life with baby Carter. 

We wrapped up the session back downstairs in their family room, welcoming their two adorable Goldendoodles to join for a few portraits. I first photographed Danika and Blake each holding Carter and then captured their whole family (pups included!) cuddled up together on the couch. Literally wrapped in love and affection, Carter looked so at ease snuggled with his family.