There’s something incredibly special about documenting the first few weeks with a newborn. Time feels suspended, and every tiny detail is new. I had the joy of photographing baby Grant’s in-home newborn session in Mechanicsville, VA, just two weeks after his arrival. The session was calm, meaningful, and filled with love.
From the moment I stepped inside, I could sense the quiet anticipation and deep affection that filled the space. Amanda and Eric, Grant’s parents, are part of my Motherhood Membership, This session was our second together, following their maternity session at Libby Hill Park just before Grant was born. Watching them ease into their new roles as parents—with so much grace and joy—was beautiful and moving.
At just two weeks old, Grant already seemed completely at ease in front of the camera. He stayed calm, curious, and content throughout the entire session. Remarkably, he didn’t shed a single tear—despite a few gentle outfit changes and lots of snuggles. His peaceful demeanor made this newborn session a dream from start to finish.
Amanda styled the session with such care. She chose soft, neutral tones that blended beautifully with their home’s natural light. Her simple, light-colored dress felt both elegant and relaxed—exactly what I recommend for in-home portraits like this.
We photographed most of the session in the morning, using the soft window light that filtered throughout their home. When needed, I gently supplemented it with a touch of fill light to maintain the calm, airy feel. The environment stayed quiet and cozy, helping Grant remain settled and giving Amanda and Eric the chance to enjoy the sweetness of these early days together.
While their home was small, it couldn’t have been more perfect. We made use of the existing textures and layout, creating imagery that felt organic and true. There were no elaborate setups—just the kind of intentional, heart-filled moments that matter most.
Though their two cats weren’t quite ready to make a cameo (they weren’t thrilled by the camera or a new guest!), there were still lovely personal details woven into the day. Grant’s “Hello World” sign, his name-covered swaddle, and the quiet glow of brand-new parenthood filled the space with emotion and warmth.
This session also marked Session Two in Amanda and Eric’s Motherhood Membership. This ongoing series lets me follow families through the seasons—from baby bump to those sweet newborn snuggles and beyond. Getting to document this chapter of their story has been one of the most rewarding parts of my work.
I truly believe that newborn photos don’t need to be formal or overly styled to be powerful. Some of my favorite portraits happen when we embrace the natural rhythms of your home—the place where you learn your baby’s cries, rock them to sleep, and celebrate their earliest milestones.
For families in Mechanicsville, Richmond, and beyond, in-home newborn photography offers a relaxed and meaningful alternative. You don’t need a perfectly curated space. All you need is soft light, real connection, and a little trust.
If you’re expecting or recently welcomed your little one, let’s talk about how a Motherhood Membership can help you preserve these fleeting moments. Whether it’s your first baby or your third, I’d love to walk alongside you through this beautiful season.
Let’s make sure these memories aren’t just stored in your heart—but captured with care, and passed down with love..
MORE MOTHERHOOD STORIES YOU MIGHT ENJOY:
#inhomephotography #motherhoodphotography #virginianewbornphotographer #motherhoodmembership #lifestylenewborn #richmondvaphotographer #naturalnewbornphotos #motherhoodstorytelling
Erica Harrison is a Northern Virginia Photographer, living in Charlottesville while photographing wedding and families in Old Town Alexandria, Washington D.C., Fairfax, & Leesburg.