When I started photographing newborns more than 15 years ago, newborn photography looked very different. The props were the main focus and we were freshly inspired by Anne Geddes.
And over the years, I’ve photographed a lot of tiny babies, I would like to say 500+ but lately, the photographs I keep coming back to are often the simplest ones.
A baby curled against Mom. Dad holding a baby who looks impossibly small against him. The three of you together, figuring out this brand-new version of your family.
No elaborate scene needed.
More of You, Less of Everything Else
I’m not giving up the beautiful portraits of your baby on their own. I still love those and I know how valuable it is to have art of your children. But I’m making more room in my newborn sessions for connection.
I want to photograph how your baby fits against your chest and how you both lean into each other. Their tiny hand wrapped around your finger. The way you look at them when you’re not thinking about the camera.
Because when I look back at the newborn photographs I’ve created over the years, those are the images that feel increasingly important to me.
Not just what your baby looked like but what it felt like to have them this small. This stage is the fastest in their entire life.
“But I Don’t Want to Be in the Photos”
I hear you.
You’ve just had a baby. You’re tired. Your body doesn’t feel quite like your own yet. You probably didn’t sleep last night. You do not have to feel camera-ready. Nothing fits.
You don’t even have to know what to do.
I’ll guide you and show you how we can keep it simple.
You holding your baby. Your partner beside you. Your baby’s head against your shoulder. There is a closet to borrow a few dresses from as well.
That’s enough.
You don’t need to perform motherhood for the camera.
You just need to be there. Not only does your baby change but so do you.
A Different Kind of Newborn Session
My newborn sessions are becoming quieter and more family-focused.
Still beautiful.
Still carefully photographed.
Still with the experience that comes from photographing babies for more than 15 years.
Just with a little less emphasis on creating the perfect “newborn setup”, what colours should we use? More emphasis on the people this baby belongs to and incredible love you have for this new person.
I know this is where the true magic lies.
Looking for a Newborn Photographer in Saint John, NB?
My studio serves families from Saint John, Rothesay, Quispamsis and surrounding areas.
If you’re expecting, you can reach out before your baby arrives to reserve space around your due date.
And if your baby is already here, please reach out anyway. There isn’t one magical day when your baby suddenly becomes “too old” for meaningful photographs.
We’ll photograph the stage you’re in.
Because your family doesn’t need to look perfect.
It should look like yours.
LEAVE A COMMENT
0 Comments