Just a few months ago, Ashley and Zach were counting down the days until they would meet their baby boy. We created a gorgeous set of maternity photos for them in front of the Monument at sunset that included their pups ( see here) and talked about all the excitement surrounding their little boy’s arrival.
Fast forward a little, and baby Elijah made his appearance and he is perfect in every way. It was so much fun seeing Ashley and Zach again—this time with the sweetest little bundle in their arms.

Seeing families return after their maternity session is one of the best parts of photographing newborns. It feels like picking up right where we left off, except now there’s a tiny new face in the picture. Elijah looked perfectly content snuggled up with Mom and Dad, and you could already see how completely in love they are with him.

Ashley has such a gentle way with Elijah, and it comes through in every image. Watching her hold him so close was a reminder that sometimes the simplest portraits become the most meaningful. No elaborate posing needed—just a mom soaking in these first precious days with her baby boy.

Then it was Zach’s turn. I always make sure Dad gets his own portraits because these images become even more meaningful as the years go by. It’s hard to believe a baby can fit so perfectly in someone’s hands, but one day Elijah certainly won’t!

Of course, we created a few classic newborn portraits while Elijah was fast asleep. The little teddy bear beside him makes him look even tinier, and I have a feeling this will be one of those photographs that always reminds Ashley and Zach just how little he once was.

I love how peaceful this portrait feels. All of the distractions disappear, leaving nothing but a beautiful moment between a mother and her son. These quiet images never need much—they speak for themselves.

Elijah decided he wanted to spend part of the session awake, and I’m so glad he did. He seemed completely fascinated by everything going on around him, and was definitely reacting to Dad’s voice. Those little expressions and curious looks are every bit as memorable as the sleepy poses.

One of my goals during every newborn session is to capture more than just posed portraits. Babies are already discovering the world around them. While Elijah was quite sleepy at this point, he actually did interact a bit with the mobile above him and even gave us the sweetest yawn. These images are the ones that remind you of the first days at home.

And finally, the little details.
Tiny lips. Soft skin. Delicate little features that seem to change overnight. These close-up images are some of my favorites because they’re the details parents don’t realize they’ll miss until years later.
Ashley and Zach, thank you for inviting me to photograph another milestone for your growing family. It has been such a joy documenting your journey from your maternity session to finally meeting sweet Elijah. Congratulations again, and I can’t wait to see how much he grows over the years.
Much Love,
Csilla





























Csilla Leonard Fine Art Portraits is a professional Newborn Photography Studio in Grand Junction, CO. We also specialize in maternity and family photography.
We are a full-service portrait studio that takes care of all your photography related needs and desires so you can focus on what’s most important: Your Baby and Family.
Our mission is to provide an exceptional experience while creating Fine Art for your home that you will proudly display and pass down for generations to come.
Csilla has years of experience as a baby photographer and is highly trained in newborn safety.
She is a true believer in capturing the way the babies are on their own. Instead of posing the babies ‘perfectly’ and using an overwhelming amount of props, she uses light to create timeless Fine Art of Your Baby.
Our newborn photography studio’s satisfied clients realize the value of printed wall art and heirloom albums.
We also serve Fruita, Glenwood Springs and Montrose, CO.
Click here to learn more about the Csilla Leonard Experience!
