THE JOURNAL
Fresh 48 Photos in New Orleans | What to Expect in the First 48 Hours
There is something sacred about the first 48 hours after your baby is born. Fresh 48 photos take place within the first 24–48 hours at your hospital or birth center in New Orleans. Unlike posed studio newborn sessions, these sessions capture real connection, skin-to-skin moments, tiny hospital bracelets, and the quiet emotion that only exists in those early hours.
Why I Photograph Newborns at Home: A Quiet Morning Session in New Orleans
This in-home newborn session took place in the morning. When the house was still quiet, the light soft, and the pace unhurried.
Prep For Your In-Home Newborn Session
The early days with a newborn are beautifully foggy, so your session shouldn’t add pressure. I keep things slow, simple, and real. Documenting your life exactly as it’s unfolding.
Soft & Romantic Couples Session at the City Park Botanical Garden in New Orleans
A soft and romantic couples session at the City Park Botanical Garden in New Orleans. Warm, cinematic storytelling photography filled with movement, emotion, and quiet, intimate moments.
A cinematic New Orleans evening with J&K
A romantic New Orleans couples session in the French Quarter, captured at sunset. Authentic, cinematic moments that reflect the heart and soul of the city.
Beignets After the Session
Because no New Orleans morning is complete without beignets! After their family session, we stopped by Morning Call to capture a few unscripted, joy-filled moments—sticky fingers, powdered sugar smiles, and all.
How to Plan a Surprise Proposal in New Orleans Without Giving It Away
New Orleans family and couples photographer shares expert tips for planning a surprise proposal that feels natural and unforgettable—without spoiling the secret.
Dreamy Downtown New Orleans Proposal
Dreamy surprise proposal in downtown New Orleans, captured with emotion and joy. A romantic New Orleans proposal photography session filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
A Romantic Maternity Session in New Orleans
This maternity session in New Orleans was filled with soft light, quiet moments, and genuine connection. As a New Orleans maternity photographer, I love capturing the anticipation and beauty of pregnancy between 28–34 weeks, when families can relax and fully enjoy this special season.
Don’t Forget to Take the Photos | New Orleans Family & Couples Photographer
Life moves fast, but photographs help us hold on. Whether you're a couple building a life together or a family growing through the everyday chaos, the quiet moments matter. As a New Orleans family and couples photographer, I believe the most meaningful photos aren't always posed—they’re real, honest, and full of heart. Don’t wait for a milestone. Take the photo now. You’ll be glad you did.
Why I Offer Proposal & Engagement Sessions
From “Will you marry me?” to the beautifully ordinary days of family life—proposal and engagement photography are simply the first chapter of the story I love to tell. Here’s why I offer proposal and engagement sessions in New Orleans, and how they connect to the heart of my family work.
When to Take Newborn Photos | NOLA Newborn Photographer’s Guide
Wondering when to schedule newborn photos? This guide from a New Orleans in-home newborn photographer explains the best timing, what to expect, and why lifestyle sessions offer more flexibility for your growing family.
More Than a Smash Cake | New Orleans Family Photography
Celebrate more than just the milestone—this New Orleans smash cake session captured connection, joy, and the love of a growing family. A sweet and sentimental look at baby’s first year through lifestyle photography.
New Orleans Family Photography | Because These Days Won’t Wait
Looking for maternity photography in New Orleans? Capture the beauty, emotion, and quiet moments of this season with heartfelt, documentary-style images.
Through the Lens: Honoring New Orleans Fathers This Father’s Day
This Father’s Day, we’re celebrating the quiet strength and everyday love of dads through the art of New Orleans fatherhood photography. From gentle hands to joyful laughs, these candid moments captured on camera remind us how powerful a father’s presence truly is. Join Payne & Co. Photography in honoring the dads who show up—both in the frame and in the hearts of their children.
New Orleans Newborn Photography: Authentic In-Home Sessions
Looking for heartfelt newborn photography in New Orleans? At Payne & Co., I specialize in in-home lifestyle newborn sessions that capture the quiet, beautiful moments of your baby’s earliest days—right where your story begins. No stiff poses or studio setups—just natural, emotive images that reflect your family’s real connection. If you're searching for a New Orleans newborn photographer who values authenticity, presence, and storytelling, you’re in the right place.
Why I Photograph Families the Way I Do | New Orleans Family Photography
As a New Orleans family photographer, I capture honest, emotive moments that reflect the heart of your family. In this post, I share why I photograph families the way I do, and what makes these images so much more than just photos. If you’re looking for meaningful family photography rooted in connection, this is for you.
How to Know When It’s Time to Book Your Family Session
Wondering when to book your next family photo session? It’s not just about birthdays or holidays. Whether your days are starting to blur together, you’ve realized you’re never in the frame, or you’re feeling that quiet nudge to remember this season—now might be the perfect time. As a New Orleans family photographer, I specialize in capturing honest, heartfelt moments that reflect your family’s real story. In this post, I’m sharing five meaningful signs it might be time to book your session.
Is Family Photography Worth It? Why It Matters For New Orleans Families
Is family photography worth it? In this blog, New Orleans family photographer Ashley Payne explores the importance of capturing real, unscripted moments. Whether in Lakeview, Uptown, Chalmette, or beyond, family photography preserves the fleeting memories that make your story unique. Learn why investing in family portraits is a meaningful way to hold onto the connection and love you share with your family, and how it can create memories that last a lifetime.
How to Include Pets in Your In-Home Family Photos: New Orleans Family Photographer
Including your pet in your New Orleans in-home family photo session is a beautiful way to capture the real moments of your everyday life. From couch cuddles to backyard play, pets are a big part of your family story—and they belong in your photos, too. In this post, I’m sharing tips for how to prepare your home and your pet so your session feels relaxed, natural, and true to you.
Offering emotive, intentional, photography for families who cherish the little moments.
As a New Orleans photographer and a former pediatric nurse, I bring a deep care and intentionality to every session.
‘‘We couldn’t have asked for a better photographer.”
“We had such an amazing experience! The photographer was absolutely wonderful to work with professional, kind, and made us feel completely comfortable the entire time. The photos turned out stunning! My fiancé and I absolutely love every single picture. We couldn’t have asked for a better photographer.”
-Gabe Vogel
Payne & Co. Photography has written a blog on how to Prepare your toddler for family photos. Click the link below to read before your session.