Newborn in blue heart wrap at Baltimore studio
Newborn swaddled cream Baltimore
Sleeping newborn portrait

Newborn Sessions

Patient newborn photographer in Columbia, MD.

Chana Mirel is a patient newborn photographer serving Columbia, MD from her private Baltimore-area studio, 4 minutes off the 695. The classic sleepy window is 5 to 15 days, and babies up to eight weeks are always welcome.

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In Chana's words

Tiny tummy moving rhythmically up and down as she peacefully slumbers. Little fingers clutching yours in a grip so shocking from such a tiny being.

“Give yourself or a loved one the gift of a newborn photoshoot and cherish those precious moments forever.”

Newborn in cream swaddle

The window

Five to fifteen days is ideal. Six to eight weeks still works.

The first two weeks are the classic sleepy-newborn window, when baby still curls and sleeps through the wraps. I book most families during the second trimester, then hold the date once baby arrives.

Past two weeks still works; I regularly photograph babies at six, seven, and eight weeks, and occasionally up to three months. Posing takes a bit more patience, and the wrapped-sleeping look is absolutely still possible.

Milk bath session

The studio

Warm, quiet, already set up.

I keep the studio at 80 degrees, because newborns chill fast and warm matters. Wraps, bonnets, buckets, and backdrops are all already here, so you walk in with baby and a feeding bottle.

Sessions run two to three hours, with feeding breaks, outfit changes, and sibling shots included. Your baby runs the clock, not me.

The process

What to expect

01

Before your session

We begin with a personal consultation to plan every detail. This is your time to share your vision and preferences so your session feels seamless and truly tailored to you.

02

The session

The studio is thoughtfully designed for comfort, allowing you to relax and enjoy the experience. Newborn sessions typically last 2–3 hours as we gently follow baby’s lead, never rushing. You also receive a preparation guide so you feel fully ready.

03

Viewing & selection

After your session, we meet for a private viewing where I guide you in selecting your images and designing your collection. This is also when you can choose custom wall art and albums.

04

Final artwork

Each image is carefully hand-edited and your chosen pieces are crafted into timeless artwork. Within a few weeks, everything will be ready for its forever home.

Common questions

Frequently asked

Where is the studio, coming from Columbia?
My photography studio is located in the Pikesville area of Baltimore, MD, just about a 4 minutes drive off the 695. From Columbia, take US-29 N to I-70 E, then I-695 N to exit 22, and there is parking at the studio.
When is the best age for newborn photos?
Five to fifteen days is the ideal window. The wrapped-sleeping look comes easiest then. Newborns up to six or eight weeks are still very welcome though, and I've photographed babies up to three months. It just takes more patience.
What does the booking process look like?
Step one is a phone consultation, no charge. We talk through your vision and the timeline. Step two: a $100 deposit holds your due-date window on my calendar. Once baby arrives, you call me and we schedule the actual session date.
How far in advance should I book?
Reach out during your second trimester so I can hold the date. I take a limited number of newborn sessions per calendar month so the slot is reserved before baby arrives.
When will I see the photos?
Two to four weeks after your in-person viewing appointment. We sit down together and go through the gallery, and prints, wall art, and album orders happen there.
How long is a newborn session?
Two to three hours. Feeding breaks and outfit changes are built in. Baby runs the clock, not me.
Can siblings be included?
Yes. Siblings and parents are both welcome. Most families do a mix of solo baby portraits and family shots.
How large is the studio? Will there be room for my kids?
The studio is over 1,000 square feet with a bathroom, a spacious play area for kids, and a large, comfy seating area with plenty of room for the whole family. The studio is also stocked with snacks and drinks in case your tummy starts to growl.
Do you charge extra for twins?
No. Multiples are welcome at the regular session rate.
Are newborn sessions safe?
Safety is my number one priority at all times, and I never compromise on that. I am trained in newborn handling, posing, and workflow. Your baby is always supported, secure, and never placed in an uncomfortable or unsafe position. Everything I do is slow, gentle, and baby-led.
Do you photograph premies who are still in the NICU?
Yes, I photograph NICU warriors all the time, even if they are way past the 5-15 day window. We book these sessions based on baby's official due date. The best thing to do is be in touch with me and let me know your baby is in the NICU. We will keep in touch throughout baby's journey, and once baby is big enough to come home we will schedule a session at that time.
What if baby has acne, dry skin, scratches, or my stomach is still swollen?
That is completely normal. I gently edit these temporary things while keeping your natural features intact. You will still fully recognize yourself.
Do I need to bring anything?
A fully stocked diaper bag. Everything else is here.

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Ready?

Book your newborn session.

Sessions book three to six weeks ahead. Send a note with your due date and I'll reply within one business day.

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