Atrium Health Navicent Family Birth Center

Bella Baby

Bella Baby is the face of hospital baby portraiture. We bring experienced, professional photographers into the hospitals to capture your baby's first photograph with a natural, artistic style. We believe that babies look the most beautiful when being held in their parents' arms or cuddled in one of their own baby blankets. Bella Baby captures this beauty by using only "real things"...natural window light, professional photographers and professional grade SLR digital cameras.

1. How long is the photo shoot?
   The photo shoot normally lasts ten to fifteen minutes.
2. When will my photo shoot take place?
   We typically photograph all babies on their first full day at the hospital. It is also possible for your shoot to take place on the day before discharge. Generally, we do not take photos on the day of discharge unless there is a medical reason for the delay.
3. My husband won't return to the hospital until late in the day. Can the session be done then?
   We always encourage husbands and siblings to participate if they are available at the time of the shoot, but we may not be at the hospital late in the day. We will try to accomodate you as much as our schedule permits.
4. Should we bring a special blanket?
   We absolutely encourage you to bring a favorite baby blanket or afghan from home to use in the shoot. A beautiful blanket can add texture, color and memories to your newborn's photos.
5. How can I prepare for the shoot?
   We love to include mom and dad's hands in our photos. Wear clear or neutral nail polish on the day of your shoot. Distracting jewelry should be removed; your baby should be the focus of the photos.
   Bring a dark-colored shirt to wear in the photos; we may photograph your baby in your arms and solid/dark colors look great in both color and black-and-white prints.
6. My baby is in the NICU, can I still have a photo shoot?
   Yes, let your nurse know you are interested in Bella Baby pictures and sign the consent form. The session will be completed when the nurse tells us the baby is ready for pictures.

About Hospital Shoots

Hospitals contracted with Bella Baby Photography are staffed with our professional photographers, on-site every day. Each new mother is offered a complimentary photo session that takes place right in her hospital room; parents and siblings are encouraged to participate to create a beautiful family experience.

Instant viewing of your photo session is made available with a custom online slide show posted to the Bella Baby website (protected with a unique password), thus enabling distant friends and family members the opportunity to share the experience. Online viewing and ordering is offered for two weeks to anyone you choose to share your password; immediate in-hospital purchasing is also available.