Greenville, South Carolina Newborn Photographer | Micro-Preemie Twins’ Newborn Session
Where do I even begin? It feels as if this newborn photoshoot was in the planning phases forever. I first connected with these little warriors’ Mama in a local Mom group when she was about 23 or 24 weeks along with her twin pregnancy and was posting asking for prayers that her boys wouldn’t come too soon due to some complications. I commented offering my prayers for her boys and her well-being as she continued to carry them as long as she could. She was able to make it a few more weeks and then the boys were born at 28 weeks.
Babies were doing as well as could be expected for micro-preemies but obviously had a long road in the NICU ahead until they were strong enough to come home. I followed along with their NICU journey and checked in from time to time. One thing was apparent - Lincoln and Harrison are fighters and they got through every challenge in the NICU - despite any ups and downs - with loving family by their side.
I was honored when their mother, Courtney, asked if I would do their newborn photos whenever they were able to come home. I am constantly in awe of tiny humans and have worked with many preemies throughout my career, but NICU babies always tug at my heart strings a little more. You know they’ve had such a journey in such a short amount of time and it’s just incredible how far they come in mere weeks or months.
Lincoln (navy wrap) spent 79 days in the NICU before graduating and Harrison (gray wrap) spent 94 days in the NICU. When I say these little guys are fighters - believe me, they are. They both came home on oxygen but are slowly adapting to being without it for longer periods during the day. They were able to be off of it for an hour or so at their photoshoot and it’s so nice to see their handsome faces without the tubes (babies were monitored throughout and went back on their oxygen when needed but they’re doing so well needing it less and less).
One of Courtney’s special requests was to incorporate the boys’ Beads of Courage into some of their newborn photos. As micro-preemies, Lincoln and Harrison each have their own sets of beads from their lengthy NICU stay. Hundreds of beads representing a milestone or achievement during their treatment. Tangible reminders of their courage and bravery throughout their hospital stay. They've come so far since being born at 28 weeks and are finally home doing well now. I think it’s wonderful they’ll have these beads to look back on someday and see how far they’ve come as they grow.
Another special request was to use what is probably my favorite prop ever - my wooden bunk beds! I LOVE these beds so much and it’s such an ingenious idea since there’s a removable third bunk if you need to use with triplets. For twins, you just remove the third bunk, add the finials to the bed post and use the shorter ladder. Have you ever seen anything cuter?! 😍
These boys loved being swaddled so we got many adorable wrapped setups with them as well! I love maximizing variety for newborn galleries however I can so parents have many images to love.
The boys have sloths and greenery in their nursery so I decided to create a little something special for their gallery. How precious are these baby sloths?
Lincoln and Harrison - you boys are so loved! I just know you’ll go on to do great things and I cannot wait to continue to watch you grow. It was an absolute privilege to meet you, snuggle you and capture your very first portraits.
Also huge thank you to my friend and fellow photographer, Lisa, who came down from Charlotte to assist with their session. ♥️