Iowa City newborn photography

Boutique newborn photography

Think “spa day,” but you get to cuddle that sweet little babe the whole time

kind words

I am so happy we chose Heather for our Iowa City newborn photographer! Heather was very quick to respond to any of my questions beforehand. She was also so patient during the shoot and we never felt rushed. I am so happy with the outcome of our shoot!
—Stacey

It starts like this — just show up. 


Crafting your newborn experience

Really! Simply bring yourself and that snuggly baby of yours. After all, you’re probably a liiiiitle sleep-deprived right now, so I’ll handle the details :) 

I’ve intentionally created an experience and a space that takes away all your worries. My goal as an Iowa City newborn photographer is to make this experience as stress-free and enjoyable as possible. It starts with the client closet preview I’ll send before our session and my help reserving hair and make-up. Then, inside my bright and airy studio space, you’ll find cozy seating for relaxing with coffee, tea or sparkling water while I capture your sweet, natural newborn portraits. A changing room stocked with diapers and wipes? Of course. Finally, you’ll find a comfortable dressing room for trying on the postpartum-friendly, dresses to comfy clothes from the client closet. Then comes the best part of all, baby cuddles.

You belong in the photo, Mamas

Photos with your newborn that aren’t selfies? Yeah, it really is possible. And for me, it’s personal – I have three kids myself, and when I look back at pictures I’m in very few of them. Being able to create these photos with moms — it means so much to me. Your newborn photos aren’t just about capturing your baby’s first days, but the tender bond between baby and you. If you're searching for a Cedar Rapids or Iowa City newborn photographer, look no further. I'm here to make your experience as stress-free and beautiful as possible.

One of my favorite ways to pamper new moms is my ever-growing client closet. In it, you’ll find gorgeous gowns and more casual looks – perfect for new moms. There’s a good variety of simple and luxe to suit all tastes, but all with comfort and style in mind. With the client closet, along with my knack for capturing you at the most flattering angles, you’ll go home with images that are every bit as dreamy as the experience.

Taking the guesswork out of dressing

MARK THE MIILESTONES

You know that beautiful baby book you ordered months ago? The one that you’re definitely going to get to as soon as you have a second? Yeah … I’m right there with you. When you’re living in the moment with your littles, it’s next to impossible to find the time — or the headspace! — to diligently record the days in their baby book. And that was how I dreamed up the Baby Book offering. Every three months over the course of the first year, I send you a simple questionnaire covering milestones, memories and more. I’ll compile everything and record it in your book, alongside gorgeous images that track your baby’s first year of life. This is a unique offering in the Iowa City Newborn Photography space and it will hold so much meaning not just for you, but for your kiddo as they grow up too.

I’m here to answer any questions you have. I want you to come to your session ready to be taken care of. Expect a preview of the client closet, hair and make-up recs and more.

PLANNING YOUR SESSION

GET IN TOUCH

Fill out my contact form, and I’ll get back to you right away. A signed contract reserves your space on my calendar, then let the pampering begin! For maternity, I recommend your session in weeks 32-36; for newborn, we’ll choose a session day that’s 7-10 days after birth.

About 2 weeks after your session, I’ll deliver your fully edited images in a secure, online gallery. From there, I’d love to help you choose an album or prints! Interested in my Baby Book offering? Check that out below.

PHOTO DELIVERY

YOUR SESSION DAY

As a Cedar Rapids and Iowa City Newborn Photographer, my priority is your comfort. I’ll gently guide you (and your baby) through the experience, with plenty of breaks to nurse, soothe or just take a break. There’s no rush!

One more step....
then I'll handle the rest

3

1

4

2

Here's how to reserve your Cedar Rapids or Iowa City Newborn Photography Session

kind words

Heather was absolutely amazing to work with! She was so patient and kind. She did a great job at capturing some of the best memories of my daughter.
—Tina

$600

  • Simple swaddles
  • Safety-first, natural poses
  • Includes parents
  • Siblings can be included
  • Images delivered in online gallery
  • Downloadable images
  • Hair and makeup (+$150)

newborn

$600

  • Luxe gowns to comfy casual pieces
  • Images delivered in online gallery
  • Downloadable images
  • Hair and makeup (+$150)

MATERNITY

$100/mo for 12 months

  • Four sessions over a year: newborn, sitting, standing, birthday
  • Sibling and family photos included
  • Images delivered in online gallery
  • Downloadable images
  • Hair and makeup (+$150)
  • Add Maternity for $40/mo

THE FIRST YEAR
membership

$150/mo for 12 months

  • Four sessions over a year: newborn, sitting, standing, birthday
  • Milestone questionnaires shared every 3mos
  • Images delivered in online gallery
  • Downloadable digital images
  • Custom Baby Book with images and memories

THE BABY BOOK membership

$1000

  • Luxe gowns to comfy casual pieces
  • Partner and kids can be included
  • Images delivered in online gallery
  • Downloadable images
  • Hair and makeup (+$150)

Maternity + newborn

Iowa City Newborn Photography Session Packages

send a note

Information about your packages, pricing, conditions. Includes all the details here. Booking conditions and terms, etc.

Special inquires

Send a note

Information about your packages, pricing, conditions. Includes all the details here. Booking conditions and terms, etc.

editorial projects

begin at $3500

Information about your packages, pricing, conditions. Includes all the details here. Booking conditions and terms, etc.

premium wedding

the packages

Whether you're expecting a little one or have just welcomed your newborn, I'd love to help you preserve these memories forever.

Thinking about documenting your pregnancy journey as well? Click the button below to explore my Maternity Experience, or contact me to discuss how we can capture all the stages of your growing family.

Those first few weeks with your newborn are a whirlwind of tiny toes, sweet snuggles, and unforgettable moments. As an Iowa City Newborn Photographer, I specialize in capturing the fleeting beauty of this precious time, creating timeless images you'll cherish for a lifetime. 

tiny toes,
sweet snuggles

Typically, newborn sessions last between 1 to 1.5 hours, and it's advisable to plan for the full 1.5-hour session. Due to the delicate nature of newborn photography, these sessions often take longer than other baby portrait sessions.

how long will the Iowa City Newborn photography session last?

When you and baby are home and settled, simply send me a note and we will find a day and time that works best for everybody.

How do you book a session when I don't know when baby will arrive?

Photography Sessions are scheduled in my Cedar Rapids studio. Designed for complete comfort for your family and optimal lighting to achieve the images you see in my portfolio, all items needed for the newborn photoshoot to take place are provided at the studio.

where do the sessions take place?

Cedar Rapids and Iowa City Newborn photography sessions are best when your infant is within the first ten days of birth. But really, there's no wrong time to photograph your newborn.

how old should my baby be for the session?

Anytime in your second or third trimester, however if your little has already arrived - don't panic - I have a flexible schedule and will be able to get you in.

when should i book a newborn photo session?

Iowa City Newborn Photography blog

The Blog

I’d love to help
you remember it

This time in your family is precious

Heather Parrish Photography offers newborn photography in Cedar Rapids, Iowa City and surrounding areas capturing the connection and love of new families. 



All content Copyright © 2025 Heather Parrish Photography, cedar rapids newborn photographer, 319.321.3758