It’s hard to put the power of newborn photography into words, but I’m going to try. My births and post-partum experiences were difficult, physically and mentally, and sadly, I don’t have many happy memories of the early days with my daughters.

Before they were born, newborn photography seemed like a frivolous expense. “What do I need a photographer for?” I wondered, “I’ll just take pictures myself!”

And then real life happened. Fifty-plus hours of labor with Caroline, ending in an unscheduled c-section and preeclampsia complications. It was days before I could even stand unassisted, let alone muster the strength to take a photo of her. To stand over her to take a photo in the state I was in would’ve been flat out dangerous.

We opted for a scheduled c-section with Ellie, and things seemed to go a little better at first. Unfortunately, the day we came home from the hospital, I developed a case of pneumonia so severe that I nearly needed to be rehospitalized. Cue the post-partum anxiety spiral all over again.

I deeply regret not investing in newborn portraits of my girls. Not just to remember how tiny and cute they were – because they grow FAST! – but also as a reminder of the beauty of those days, even if my own memory has failed me. A newborn child is truly God’s artwork here on Earth, even if my imperfect being cannot see it through the fog.

It’s such an honor and source of healing for me to serve families in this way. If you or someone you know would like to book in, please email me directly at hello@amandawosephotography.com. I can’t wait to work with you.