Black and white portrait of parents and dog lovingly embracing newborn baby in Dike, Iowa studio.

Cedar Falls Newborn Session | Incorporating Keepsakes with Baby Carmen and Family

One of my favorite parts of newborn photography is seeing maternity sessions transform into the joy of meeting a new little family member. Michaela, who rocked that gorgeous golden velvet maternity gown custom-made right here in my Cedar Falls studio, came back with her beautiful new addition, baby Carmen. Let me tell you, Carmen was the perfect combination of adorable “chonk” and pure sass—and I wouldn’t have it any other way!

Incorporating Sentimental Items into Your Newborn Session

From the moment Michaela and John stepped into my studio, it was clear that their session was going to be deeply meaningful. They brought along several cherished family heirlooms, including John’s late mother’s wedding rings and Michaela’s late father’s cowboy hat and belt. I can’t express enough how much it means to me when families trust me with such precious memories. Every time I incorporate these sentimental pieces, I am reminded exactly why I became a photographer—to preserve love, family history, and memories in images that last forever.

Baby Carmen was a complete superstar when swaddled up snugly in my custom wraps. But the second she felt the fresh air, her eyes popped open, and she was wide awake—ready to party! Capturing both sleepy and awake photos creates a perfect balance, telling the full story of these precious first days.

Sibling Love—Even the Four-Legged Kind!

Let’s not forget Mya, the family’s sweet golden retriever, who absolutely stole the show with her gentle affection for baby Carmen. Running out of dog treats didn’t slow us down; leftover bacon from Scooter’s breakfast sandwiches saved the day. It was truly hilarious watching Mya eagerly pose, all for a little taste of bacon. Family sessions are always extra special when furry siblings are involved, adding an authentic warmth and humor to each portrait.

Professional-Quality Products to Cherish Forever

After their session, Michaela and John chose some stunning products to treasure their favorite portraits. They opted for two gorgeous canvases and a set of our brand-new lay-flat booklets. I’m particularly excited about these booklets because they’re a recent addition to our studio offerings. Of course, I handle the entire design and ordering process. All my clients need to focus on is enjoying those precious newborn snuggles.

 

Be sure to stay tuned—I’ll be sharing a product video as soon as their beautiful heirlooms arrive!

Family dog gently greeting newborn during Cedar Falls photography session.
Newborn sleeping peacefully next to grandfather’s cowboy hat and belt in Iowa studio session.
Newborn wrapped in teal swaddle with matching headband during Waterloo newborn session.
Newborn baby’s tiny feet adorned with grandmother's wedding rings during sentimental Cedar Falls photo session.
Mother holding newborn baby girl lovingly in Cedar Falls photography studio.
Awake newborn swaddled in white against floral backdrop during Cedar Falls photography session.
Baby wrapped in mint green swaddle posed with eucalyptus during Cedar Falls newborn session.

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