There is something so special about newborn lifestyle sessions to me. They are the polar opposite of almost every other session I photograph regularly. While weddings are full of racing the clock & staying on schedule, and family sessions are wrapped around energy and life lived LOUD, newborn sessions are different. They are found in the quiet moments: the serenity and peace that surrounds a family’s home in the days after the newest member is brought home. They are found in the tiny details: in curled fingers and outstretched toes. They are found in the eyes of family: in siblings taking in all the newness and parents falling even more in love with their life and all it holds.

It is no small honor to be invited into the homes of my clients, and I am incredibly grateful to have the opportunity whenever it presents itself. And while it may seem like a newborn session would be so so simple, it’s actually quite the opposite: newborn sessions are a lot of work! They last anywhere from 2-3 hours and require much heavier editing than my typical session; but, they are worth every moment. I look through these images, and I can just breathe.

This newborn session in particular means so much to me, as the Vs are the closest thing Chris and I have to home here in Cleveland. Nate and Layla are two of my favorite kiddos in the whole world, and it was just incredible to see them interact with their little sister and love on her. As I look at these images, I am continuously left without words. James and Toni have such a beautiful family, and I am thrilled to share them with you today.

Welcome to the world, Miss Ava James!

Toni’s mother is so so sweet, and I was so glad she was able to join in for a few photos. I absolutely love this one of their hands: three generations of love right there!

James & Toni,

Thank you so much for letting me photograph your family — Chris and I are so incredibly thankful for your family and love you all so much!!! When we first found out you were expecting, it was hard to imagine your family of 4 as any different…but with Ava, you are complete! We already love her so much, and can’t wait to see all the JOY life has in store for her! Enjoy these photos (and good luck telling Nate & Layla why they don’t have newborn pictures and Ava does when they’re older! Haha!)!

Love love love,

Sami