Meet Hope Davis of Hope Davis Photography!

If you're looking for clean, timeless photos of your family, the name Hope Davis will come up time after time. Hope, together with her daughter-in-law Britney, has been capturing the most breathtaking photoshoots for over a decade.

Her clean style, calm personality, and incredible talent makes her a top name in the industry and an absolutely pleasure to work with.

Can you share a little about your journey into newborn and family photography? What drew you to this in the first place?

I've always loved photography and flipping through old photo albums, but becoming a photographer was never part of my plan—I had set out to be an accountant. Life took some unexpected turns, and I became a stay-at-home mom.

Then, in 2010, my husband gave me a camera for Christmas, and I dove headfirst into learning everything I could. I started by taking photos for friends, but within a year, I was capturing moments for clients I had never met. Along the way I realized where my heart truly belonged—photographing newborns and young children. It quickly became my passion, and for the past ten years, I’ve specialized exclusively in capturing the pure, fleeting moments of childhood.

What are your top tips for parents preparing for a newborn or family photoshoot?

For Newborn Sessions:
Schedule Early – It's best to book your session in advance, as my calendar is typically booked 5-6 months ahead. This ensures you secure your spot and have plenty of time to prepare.
Keep Baby Comfortable – A well-fed, warm baby is a happy baby. Try to feed your little one right before the session
Dress Baby Simply – Avoid outfits with too many layers or accessories. Soft, neutral colors and wraps work best for a timeless look.

For Family Sessions (Including Siblings & Parents in Newborn Shoots):
Keep Kids Happy – Bring snacks, a favorite toy, or play a favorite song to keep little ones engaged and happy. Let them be themselves—candid moments are often the best!
Relax & Have Fun – Kids (and babies) feed off your energy. The more relaxed you are, the more natural and joyful the photos will be.
Trust Your Photographer – Let them guide you through poses and interactions that feel natural and comfortable. Don't stress about looking perfect—authentic moments are the most beautiful.
Embrace the Chaos – Especially with young kids, things might not go exactly as planned, and that’s okay! Some of the best images come from unplanned, in-the-moment interactions.

What are your best tips for parents to ensure their child is comfortable and happy during the session?

My top tip is to keep your expectations flexible. Let the session unfold naturally—don’t stress if your little one is full of energy or not following directions perfectly. In fact, I’d much rather photograph a lively, playful child than one sitting stiffly, forcing a smile.

A great way to set the tone is to tell your child you’re going on a fun playdate where someone will have a camera. Then, plan a special treat afterward—maybe a stop at the local bakery for cookies and a trip to the park. When the photo session feels like just one part of an exciting day, kids are more relaxed, engaged, and truly themselves, which makes for the most beautiful, genuine photos.

How do you create a relaxed atmosphere during a session?

Creating a relaxed atmosphere starts with music. Depending on the child’s personality, I’ll either play soft, soothing background music or liven things up with fun, upbeat Disney tunes. Music has a way of setting the mood and helping little ones feel more at ease, making the session feel more like play than a formal photoshoot. When kids are comfortable and happy, their personalities shine, and that’s when the magic happens!

What advice do you have for parents choosing outfits for their newborn session?

When selecting an outfit for your photo session, I recommend choosing soft, neutral colors for a timeless and elegant look. Adding texture and layering can bring depth and interest to your photos. Ensure clothing fits well and is free of wrinkles for a polished appearance.

For family sessions, aim for coordinated outfits rather than overly matching ones. Stick to complementary colors and similar tones to create a cohesive look without being too uniform. The goal is to keep the focus on your family’s connection while ensuring everyone looks effortlessly put together!

Can you share some of your favorite Feltman outfits that photograph well?

Feltman Brothers sweater sets are absolutely timeless! Their classic, heirloom-quality designs are perfect for newborn and child photography. The cream sets are especially beautiful—soft, elegant, and perfect for creating a dreamy, delicate look. They photograph so well and add such a sweet touch to any session!

What tips can you share for first-time clients when planning a photoshoot?

Schedule your appointment 4-6 months in advance to ensure availability. Have a detailed conversation with your photographer via phone or email to align on style, budget, delivery times, products, and any special requests. By the time your photoshoot rolls around, you shouldn’t have any surprises or unanswered questions. Clear communication is key to a smooth, stress-free session, allowing you to relax and enjoy the experience while ensuring your expectations are met.

How do you ensure that your clients have the best possible experience?

I want every client to have the best possible experience. My studio is located inside my home, so I aim to create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere—like you’re just coming over for a visit (with the added bonus of a camera!). Throughout the session, we chat, get to know each other, and make the experience enjoyable. My goal is for you to feel comfortable and at ease, so your photos reflect the true connection and emotion of the moment.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time when you’re not photographing newborns and families?

These days, I’m fortunate to spend a lot of my free time with my one-year-old grandson. We have so much fun playing outside, whether it's running around the yard, going on walks, or simply enjoying the fresh air. One of our favorite activities is going on lunch dates together. It’s truly a joy watching him discover and explore the world around him!

After families receive their gorgeous photos, are you there to guide them on how to use/print/display?

Many clients today want digital images, which are wonderful to have and easy to share. However, designing photo albums is my absolute favorite way to showcase a session. There’s something so special about holding a beautifully crafted album, flipping through the pages, and reliving those memories. It’s a timeless way to display your photos, creating something you can cherish for years to come. Plus, albums become family heirlooms that can be passed down through generations! 

Thank you so much Hope for sharing your story and expert advice with us all! 

I’m based in Central Mississippi, in the charming town of Decatur. You can learn more about my work and get in touch with me through my website at www.hopedavisphoto.com.

You can also follow along on Instagram @hopedavisphotography and on Facebook at Hope Davis Photography.