Considering Posed Newborn Photography?

New parents can (and should) take as many photographs as possible to capture those first few days and weeks of a newborn infant’s life. The days fly past too quickly, and there are a thousand little memories to immortalise in photographic image. We might call this lifestyle newborn photography if you like. Keep a camera on hand and shoot frequently and liberally. (Just make sure to save the images onto your computer!) However, posed newborn photography requires more thought and planning.

Considering Posed Newborn Photography?

Posed newborn photography has become extremely popular over the last ten years. From my own research on the subject, it seems that ever since Anne Geddes’s famous book, Down in the Garden, hit the shelves in 1996, the world of newborn and baby has been transformed. Initially, however, posed newborn photography was viewed as something only performed by elite photographers, and it seemed that the more extravagant the props, the better the photograph. In the last ten years, more and more photographers have stepped into the game with a plethora of different styles. And while gaudy props are still available, classic styles that accentuate the beauty and personality of the newborn infant tend to dominate today.

In contrast to point and shoot (and repeat) lifestyle photographs, posed newborn photography requires a professional photographer experienced and skilled in working with newborn infants. Both posing the baby and doing composite photos for difficult poses requires trained expertise. The safety of the infant is, of course, paramount, and therefore a well-equipped studio is essential. Tons of patience is required, too—to settle the baby to sleep, and to allow times for feeding and soothing. Sessions that last anywhere between three to five hours are common.

Yes, posed newborn photography requires a financial investment but the rewards are definitely worthwhile. To have images, and an album or a canvas hanging pride-of-place on the wall that captures your newborn during his or her first few days is worth its weight in gold.

Please feel free to view my newborn gallery and contact me if you’re thinking of posed photography for your newborn. Return to the home page to see all we offer at Lorna Kirkby Photography.