Boston Newborn Portraits | Signature Collection

As a family photographer, I typically communicate with moms when planning sessions. They are often the ones coordinating details, choosing outfits, and making sure everything is just right. Occasionally, a dad will reach out, usually for a last-minute booking or a quick inquiry. But Joey was different. He contacted me months before his little princess arrived, eager to set up a newborn session well in advance. From our very first conversation, it was clear he was going to be a hands-on dad—one who wanted to be involved in every detail of his daughter’s arrival and early days.

When the session day finally arrived, meeting Joey in person only confirmed my initial impression. He was attentive, loving, and completely in awe of his newborn daughter. It was heartwarming to see how naturally he embraced fatherhood, supporting his wife and soothing Baby Ava with such ease. He wasn’t just there for the session—he was an active participant, making sure his little girl was comfortable and his wife felt at ease.

Every newborn session is different, but there’s one thing most of them have in common: lots of sleepy baby photos. Typically, newborns snooze through most of the session, allowing us to gently pose them in those dreamy, curled-up positions. But Baby Ava had other plans. She was far too curious about the world around her to drift off to sleep. Wide-eyed and alert, she took in every little movement, every soft click of my camera, as if she didn’t want to miss a single moment.

At first, I thought she might doze off eventually, but she remained awake and engaged for nearly the entire session. And honestly, it turned out to be a wonderful surprise! Instead of the usual sleeping baby portraits, we captured a gallery full of expressive, awake moments—her tiny hands stretching, her big beautiful eyes gazing up at her parents, and even a few adorable yawns. It was a reminder that sometimes, the best photos come from embracing the unexpected.

Through it all, Joey and his wife remained patient and relaxed, enjoying these early bonding moments as a family of three. The love between them was so evident, and I feel incredibly honored to have captured these memories for them. Baby Ava is one lucky little girl—she’s already so loved and cherished, and I have no doubt she will grow up knowing just how special she is.