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A Photographers journey...
Welcoming New Life: A Guide to Understanding Newborn Babies
1. The First Few Days: What to Expect* Newborns spend most of their time sleeping. It’s normal for them to sleep between 16-18 hours a day, although this can vary. Their sleep patterns will be irregular, as they need to wake frequently to feed. Newborns also experience a range of reflexes, such as the Moro reflex (startle reflex), which is a response to sudden movements or noises.
2. Feeding and Nutrition* Feeding is a primary concern for new parents. Whether you choose to breastfeed or formula-feed, it’s essential to understand that newborns have tiny stomachs and need to eat often. Breastfeeding generally occurs every 2-3 hours, while formula feeding might be slightly less frequent. It’s also normal for newborns to lose a small percentage of their birth weight in the first few days, but they should start gaining weight once feeding is established.
3. Sleep Patterns and Soothing Techniques* Newborns have irregular sleep patterns and can wake up frequently during the night. Creating a calming bedtime routine can help signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep. Techniques like swaddling, gentle rocking, and white noise can be soothing. It’s also important to practice safe sleep habits, such as placing your baby on their back to sleep and using a firm mattress.
4. Diapering and Hygiene* Newborns will go through a lot of diapers. Expect to change them frequently, as newborns can soil their diapers up to 10 times a day. It’s crucial to keep the area clean and dry to prevent diaper rash. Using gentle, hypoallergenic wipes and a good barrier cream can help maintain healthy skin.
5. Bonding and Emotional Support* Bonding with your newborn is vital. Skin-to-skin contact, talking, and singing to your baby can strengthen your connection. It’s also important to take care of your own emotional well-being. Parenting can be stressful, and seeking support from family, friends, or professionals is key to maintaining a healthy balance.
6. Health and Wellness* Regular pediatrician visits are essential to monitor your baby’s growth and development. Vaccinations, routine check-ups, and developmental milestones are all part of ensuring your baby stays healthy. Keep an eye out for any signs of illness, such as fever, unusual fussiness, or feeding problems, and consult your pediatrician if you have concerns.
7. Preparing for the Future* As your baby grows, their needs will evolve. Understanding developmental stages, from the early milestones of rolling over and sitting up to walking and talking, will help you support their growth. Continue to engage with your baby through play, reading, and interaction to foster their development.
Conclusion: The newborn phase is a precious time filled with new experiences and challenges. By understanding what to expect and how to care for your baby, you can make this period smoother and more enjoyable. Remember, every baby is unique, and flexibility is key. Embrace the journey, seek support when needed, and cherish these early moments with your little one.
NEWBORN SAFETY
Any photographer that photographs newborns must have safety as their number one priority. There are many things that can go wrong if this is not practiced with each and every one of your little clients.
I am very stern on the fact that if a baby is not comfortable in a pose I move on to the next, I tweak poses all the time to whichever way the baby is comfortable and relaxed. I will never for any reason force a baby into a pose.
I have parents ask me all the time for certain poses especially the "froggy pose" as shown in the image, I always tell them I will try, but I cannot force baby into this. Safety is number one with this pose and I like to share how it is done safely. Someone is ALWAYS holding baby, I do not have an assistant so I always ask Mom or Dad to give me a hand spotting for me.
I am holding baby in place in one shot (a parent or assistant is just right beside the baby spotting even when I am doing this), and in another image I have someone holding only baby's head only.
The final image as shown is the final outcome done safely, we never under any circumstances put baby in this position unattended. We call these types of images "composites" where we merge 2 images together to make one final image.
The "froggy pose" for example really requires a sleepy baby, usually within the first 14 days of life there is a better chance to achieve this than with an older baby.
I wanted to make my clients aware that I am always willing to try a pose you like, however if your baby is uncomfortable and is showing cues of stress I will immediately change positions. Your child's safety is far more important that getting that pose.
The following diagram shows how your baby is in mummy's tummy, some babies may or may not be able to go in certain positions in the first place depending on how they were in the womb.
Some babies can be placed in certain poses without discomfort as that is how they were in the womb where as some babies hips etc. cannot bend that way.
It is also very important for clients to advise your photographer if there are any hip etc. issues at birth as this could effect the poses and there may be some poses that should not be done as it can worsen the situation.
I truly hope this was a little insight as to what us photographers need to look out for when working with your little one. In most cases it is not because we may not want to do the pose for you, it is because your baby has shown cues of distress in them and their safety is what is most important at the end of the day.
I like to think of your baby as my own when I work with them, if I feel that a certain pose etc. would harm or cause stress to your child I will stop immediately.
Lastly, just practicing common sense - always have your camera strap around your neck when shooting over head and no not use glass or flimsy props and the list goes on. If you wouldn't do it to your own child do not do it to others.
I am a BIG believer in "prevention is ALWAYS better then a cure"
Insight to Photography pricing
This is going to be a long one folks, but worth the read to anyone to get good insight on our business and what we need to run it successfully.
I have this question asked of me several times by clients and even people who are wanting to peruse this profession. A fellow photographer in my area posted a similar blog and I just had to also join in and give some insight to the many factors that make newborn photography prices the way they are. It is not always just in the case of newborns, it applies to all my sessions also.
I am solely speaking for myself here and want to make it clear that everything I am about to run through here is not necessarily the same for every other photographer.
Please also take into account the experience and quality of work from the photographer you are looking to hire. It is obvious a starting out photographer will not charge what I do, but I don't even think that matter's a whole lot. You as a client are hiring a photographer for their style and perhaps just for THEM as a person weather they have 1 year of experience under their belt or 10 years. If clients are hiring solely on price, well that is fine too. That being said I think it is safe to say most photographers that have this type of business full-time or on a part-time bases still have some or most of these expenses. It is also quite possible I even missed a few ;)
Many need to take into consideration the pricing for equipment in general (this is the most costly of all) In my case I use studio light not natural light (natural light photographers luckily get to skip this expense). Starting with lights (I personally have 3 high end lights), bulbs and flash tubes for the lights, umbrellas/soft boxes, reflectors, camera(s) (I have 2 camera's - my main baby and a back up), camera lenses (I own 4, but some photographers own many more than that). This can all add up to close to $10,000 or more!
I can now go ahead and list all the other expenses involved to run the business successfully:
- Heating (I heat my house and have space heaters going especially for newborn sessions)
- Newborn sessions can range from 1-4 hours depending on the package - this consists my trying to keep baby relaxed, posing baby, keeping baby safe at all times. My work does not end after the session - I then need to cull all the images make edits to them, send them off to the client - once selections are made it can take hours of editing the final selections.
- Workshops and courses to keep us up to date with trends or new techniques, depending on the teacher these workshops are in the hundreds or even thousands (yes..thousands). I did a newborn workshop last year that was $400 USD just to give you an idea. Some mentors that visit our towns to do workshops in person can be well over $1000 USD.
- PROPS, outfits, wraps, bonnets, headbands, backdrops (paper, vinyl, wood etc..), blankets, furs and the list can go on and on. These pieces add up quickly and are very expensive depending on quality. I personally only like to shop the best quality so I end up paying a bit more, but it makes my clients images look all that better with high quality products. We cannot take the "cheap" way when it comes to this as it also makes our work look that way and nobody wants that.
- Leasing a studio space. I personally work from my home studio, but many others lease space - that is also quite expensive. However, because my studio is in my home my utilities are more as I am using extra electricity, heat, A/C etc..
- Liability insurance
- Marketing and advertising
- Bookkeeper and Accountant
- Website, appointment booking systems and other business related software. These cost money to operate and time to update regularly.
- Editing software (Lightroom and Photoshop in my case) is a monthly premium.
- External hard drives to back up images. These get costly as they are not cheap. I have quite a few of these going and it is a necessity.
I truly hope this helped give some insight on the back end of my business. I personally would not trade it for the world as I absolutely love what I do and no matter the cost I will still keep going. I think this just helps create some awareness that we do not just make up numbers and charge that number - there are many factors that go into our pricing.
I hope you enjoyed the read and the insight and if you have any further questions on anything mentioned please feel free to ask me, I can always elaborate further.
The first few weeks of a newborns life
The first few weeks of a newborn's life are a magical and transformative time for both the baby and the parents. Here’s an overview of what to expect and how to navigate this special period:
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO HAVE NEWBORN PHOTOS DONE?
The best age for newborn photos is typically between 5 to 14 days old. During this time, babies are usually still very sleepy, easier to pose, and have that classic “newborn” look with their curled-up, womb-like positions. After two weeks, babies tend to be more alert and may not stay in those peaceful, sleepy poses as easily.
WHY SHOULD YOU GET NEWBORN PHOTOS DONE?
Getting newborn photos done is a wonderful way to capture those fleeting early moments of your baby’s life. Here are a few reasons why they’re worth considering:
Timeless Memories: Newborns change so quickly, and having professional photos helps preserve those tiny features and precious expressions.
Family Bonding: The photo session can be a special time for parents to bond with their newborn and celebrate their new addition as a family.
Professional Quality: A skilled photographer knows how to handle and pose newborns safely and beautifully, capturing the essence of your baby in a way that’s hard to replicate at home.
Unique Art: Beautiful newborn photos can become cherished pieces of art in your home, reminding you of that special time for years to come.
Milestone Documentation: Newborn photos are a great way to mark the beginning of your child's life story, complementing other milestones you’ll document as they grow.
Legacy: These images can be shared with your child as they grow up, giving them a glimpse into their early days and the love that surrounded them.
Overall, newborn photos are a meaningful investment in capturing the magic of early parenthood!
WHY IS TAKING MATERNITY PHOTOS SO SPECIAL?
Taking maternity photos can be significant for several reasons:
Celebration of Pregnancy: Maternity photos celebrate the journey of pregnancy, capturing the beauty and unique experience of this time.
Creating Memories: These photos serve as lasting memories of a special period in life, allowing parents to look back and reminisce.
Bonding: The photo session can be a meaningful bonding experience for parents-to-be, fostering connection and excitement for the new arrival.
Documenting Change: Pregnancy brings about many physical and emotional changes, and maternity photos document this transformation.
Sharing with Loved Ones: Maternity photos can be shared with family and friends, allowing them to be part of the journey and celebrate with the parents.
Empowerment: Many people find that maternity photography helps them embrace their bodies and feel empowered during pregnancy.
Overall, maternity photos capture a unique moment in time, filled with anticipation and love.
QUESTIONS YOU SHOULD ASK YOUR NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHER
When choosing a newborn photographer, it's important to ask the right questions to ensure you get the best experience and results. Here are some key questions to consider:
What is your experience with newborn photography?
- Ask about how long they've been specializing in this type of photography.
Can I see a portfolio of your recent work?
- Look for consistency in style and quality.
What is your approach to safety during the session?
- Inquire about the techniques used to ensure the baby's safety and comfort.
Do you have a studio or do you offer on-location sessions?
- Understand where the sessions will take place.
What is included in your package?
- Ask about the number of images, props, and any additional services.
What is your pricing and payment policy?
- Clarify costs, deposits, and payment methods.
How do you handle rescheduling in case of illness or emergencies?
- Understand their policy for unexpected changes.
How long does a typical session last?
- This helps you prepare for the day of the shoot.
What should we bring to the session?
- Get a list of recommended items, such as outfits or special blankets.
When can we expect to see our photos?
- Ask about the turnaround time for proofs and final images.
Do you offer any prints or albums?
- Inquire about additional products and their costs.
Can we discuss our vision or specific poses we want?
- Make sure they are open to your ideas and preferences.
Do you have liability insurance?
- Confirm they are a professional and insured photographer.
What happens if the baby is fussy during the session?
- Discuss their strategies for handling challenging situations.
Are there any travel fees for on-location sessions?
- Ensure you know all potential costs involved.
- These questions can help you gauge the photographer’s expertise, professionalism, and compatibility with your vision.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF GETTING PROFESSIONAL PRINTS?
Professional prints offer several key advantages over standard home or office printing. Here are the main benefits:
1. Higher Quality
- Superior Resolution: Professional printing services use high-resolution printers that produce sharper, more detailed images. This results in prints that are more vibrant and crisp, particularly for fine art, photographs, and high-end marketing materials.
- Advanced Color Accuracy: Professionals use specialized color management tools and processes to ensure your prints look exactly as you intended, with accurate color reproduction. This is crucial for photography, branding, or design projects where color consistency matters.
2. Wide Range of Materials
- Variety of Paper Types: Professional printers offer a wide selection of paper stocks, from glossy, matte, and satin finishes to fine art papers, canvas, and metallic finishes. This allows you to choose the perfect material for your project.
- Specialty Media: Beyond paper, professionals can print on a range of other materials, such as fabric, vinyl, wood, or even glass, depending on your needs.
3. Durability and Longevity
- Long-Lasting Prints: Professional printers often use archival-quality inks and papers designed to resist fading, smudging, and wear over time. This is especially important for prints that will be displayed in galleries, museums, or as keepsakes.
- Protection from Environmental Factors: Many professional prints are treated with coatings that offer UV protection, water resistance, or anti-scratch properties, making them more durable for long-term display.
4. Consistency
- Color Consistency Across Batches: When you need multiple copies of a print (for marketing materials, portfolios, etc.), professional printing ensures that each one maintains the same quality and color integrity.
- Accurate Proofing and Adjustment: Professional printers can provide proofs before the final print run, allowing you to review and adjust any issues with color or composition, ensuring the final product meets your expectations.
5. Customization Options
- Finishing Touches: Professionals can add custom finishing options like embossing, foil stamping, spot UV coating, and cutting to create unique, high-end designs. These finishes add an extra level of sophistication and can elevate the overall look of your project.
- Size Flexibility: Whether you need large-format prints for posters or small-scale prints for brochures, professional services can accommodate a wide range of sizes and dimensions.
6. Time and Convenience
- Faster Turnaround: Professional printers often have the equipment and expertise to produce high-quality prints much faster than a home printer, especially for bulk orders.
- Expert Handling: Printing experts can advise you on the best materials, finishes, and formats for your specific needs, saving you time and potential trial-and-error.
7. Cost-Effectiveness for Bulk Orders
- Economies of Scale: For larger print runs, professional printing can be more cost-effective compared to printing individually at home. High-volume printing services often offer discounted rates for bulk orders, which makes them ideal for business or event materials.
8. Professional Presentation
- Business or Marketing Materials: If you need professional-looking business cards, brochures, or other promotional materials, professional printing ensures that everything is polished and high-quality, making a positive impression on clients or customers.
- Gifts or Art Displays: For photographers, artists, or anyone looking to display their work, a professional print is a great way to ensure your images are presented in the best possible light—whether for framing, gifting, or selling.
In summary, professional prints provide higher quality, durability, and consistency, making them ideal for important or high-end projects. Whether you’re a photographer, artist, or business owner, using professional printing ensures your work is presented at its best.
What is the perfect age for newborn photos?
The perfect age for newborn photos is typically between 5 and 14 days old. Here's why this time frame is ideal:
Wishing you a very Happy Holiday Season!
As the year comes to a close and the festive season is upon us, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to all of my valued clients. Your trust, loyalty, and support have been the cornerstone of our success this year, and I couldn't be more thankful.
This Christmas, I hope you are surrounded by warmth, joy, and the company of loved ones. May your holidays be filled with laughter, cherished memories, and a little bit of magic to brighten your days.
As we look ahead to the New Year, I am excited about the opportunities it holds and hope to continue serving you with the same dedication and passion that defines our work. Your continued partnership inspires us to strive for excellence and deliver even more value in the coming year.
Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! May 2024 bring you health, happiness, and prosperity. Thank you for being a part of our journey—we look forward to seeing you again soon!
** image was taken from my Christmas minis this year hosted at Viaenne Farms of one of my wonderful clients.
Cheers to a Successful and Happy New Year!
As we step into a brand-new year, I want to take a moment to wish all my wonderful clients a Happy New Year! This time of year is a perfect opportunity to reflect on the successes of the past year and set our sights on the exciting possibilities ahead.
Reflecting on Growth and Gratitude
The past year has been an incredible journey, filled with challenges, accomplishments, and growth. Whether it was navigating unexpected hurdles or celebrating major milestones, each moment has contributed to shaping the path forward. I am deeply grateful for your trust, collaboration, and the opportunity to work together. Your support has been the cornerstone of our shared success.
Tips for a Successful New Year
As we look to the year ahead, here are a few tips to ensure success and fulfillment:
- Set Clear Goals
Start the year by defining what success looks like for you. Whether it's personal growth, business achievements, or lifestyle changes, having clear, actionable goals can keep you focused and motivated. - Stay Flexible and Resilient
Life often throws unexpected challenges our way. Embrace change as an opportunity to learn and grow, and approach obstacles with a problem-solving mindset. - Celebrate Small Wins
Progress is a journey, not just a destination. Celebrate each step forward, no matter how small—it’s these moments that build momentum for larger achievements. - Invest in Relationships
Success isn’t just about achieving goals; it’s also about the people you surround yourself with. Nurture relationships with those who inspire and support you, both personally and professionally. - Prioritize Well-being
A successful year is one where you also take care of yourself. Make time for self-care, mental health, and the things that bring you joy and balance.
Looking Ahead Together
As we embrace 2025, I’m excited to continue our journey together. Whether we’re working toward shared goals or exploring new opportunities, I’m committed to helping you achieve success this year. Let’s make it a year to remember!
Thank you for being a part of this journey. Here’s to a year filled with growth, success, and happiness for you and your loved ones.
Happy New Year!
The Art of Family Photography: Capturing Precious Moments
A Guide to Creating Timeless Memories
Family photography is more than just pointing a camera and clicking the shutter. It’s about capturing the essence of togetherness, the bond that unites each family member, and preserving moments that tell a story for generations to come. Whether you are a professional photographer or a parent with a passion for photography, understanding the nuances of family photography can help you create beautiful and meaningful pictures that will be cherished forever.
The Importance of Family Photography
Family photography holds a special place in our hearts as it freezes moments in time, allowing us to look back and remember the joy, love, and togetherness that we have shared. These images become treasured keepsakes, evoking emotions and memories every time we look at them. In a world where time flies by so quickly, family photography serves as a visual diary of our lives, documenting growth, milestones, and celebrations.
Preparing for the Family Photo Shoot
Choosing the Right Photographer
Selecting the right photographer is crucial for a successful family photo shoot. Look for someone who has experience in family photography and whose style resonates with you. A good family photographer should be able to capture natural and candid moments, making everyone feel comfortable and at ease in front of the camera.
Planning the Location and Time
The location and timing of the photo shoot can significantly impact the final results. Choose a location that holds meaning for your family, such as your home, a favorite park, or a place where you spend quality time together. The golden hours of early morning or late afternoon provide the best natural lighting, creating a soft and warm ambiance that enhances the beauty of your photographs.
Coordinating Outfits
Coordinating outfits can add a cohesive and polished look to your family photos. Choose a color palette that complements everyone's skin tones and avoid overly busy patterns. The goal is to have outfits that harmonize without being too matchy-matchy. Encourage family members to wear clothes they feel comfortable and confident in, as this will reflect in the photos.
During the Photo Shoot
Encouraging Natural Interactions
The best family photos often come from genuine interactions and emotions. Encourage family members to play, laugh, and engage with each other naturally. The photographer should be skilled in capturing these spontaneous moments, as they showcase the true essence of your family's bond.
Poses and Composition
While natural interactions are essential, having a few posed shots can also add to the variety of your collection. The photographer should guide you through different poses that flatter each family member and highlight the connections between you. Pay attention to the composition, ensuring that the background and surroundings enhance the overall image without distracting from the subjects.
Incorporating Props and Pets
Props and pets can add a fun and personal touch to your family photos. Whether it's a favorite toy, a cherished family heirloom, or your beloved pets, these elements can help tell your family's unique story. Just make sure that props are used sparingly and do not overshadow the main subjects.
After the Photo Shoot
Selecting and Editing Photos
After the photo shoot, the photographer will typically provide you with a selection of the best images. Take your time to choose the ones that resonate the most with you. Editing plays a crucial role in enhancing the final images, so ensure that the photographer's editing style aligns with your vision. The goal is to enhance the photos while maintaining their natural and authentic feel.
Displaying and Sharing Your Photos
Once you have your beautifully edited photos, think about how you want to display and share them. Creating a family photo album or a gallery wall in your home can be a wonderful way to showcase your memories. Digital photo frames, personalized calendars, and holiday cards are also great options for sharing your photos with friends and family.
Preserving Your Memories
To ensure your family photos stand the test of time, consider printing them on high-quality paper and storing them in archival-grade albums or boxes. Digital backups are also essential, so keep copies of the images on multiple devices or cloud storage services. Regularly revisit these memories to remind yourself of the love and joy captured in each photo.
Conclusion
Family photography is an art that requires patience, creativity, and a deep understanding of the connections that bind us together. By thoughtfully preparing for the photo shoot, encouraging natural interactions, and carefully selecting and preserving the final images, you can create a timeless collection of family memories. These photographs will not only bring joy and nostalgia to your family but will also become a cherished legacy for future generations.
Embrace the beauty of family photography and let each frame tell the unique story of your family's journey through life.
What Are Mini Milestone Sessions?
Mini milestone sessions are short, focused photography sessions designed to celebrate key moments in a child's early years. These typically occur at three months, six months, nine months, and one year, but can be customized to capture any special achievement or stage.
Unlike full-length portrait sessions, mini sessions are quick and efficient—perfect for young children who may not have the patience for an extended shoot. They are ideal for capturing personality-filled snapshots that showcase your child’s unique expressions and development.
Why Choose a Mini Milestone Session?
Time-Efficient – These sessions usually last 20-30 minutes, making them a stress-free experience for both parents and children.
Affordable – Mini sessions often come at a lower cost than full-length portrait sessions, allowing families to document multiple stages throughout the year.
Great for Themed Shoots – Many photographers offer seasonal or themed setups, making each session unique and fun.
Builds a Beautiful Story – By capturing a series of milestone sessions, you create a timeline of your child’s growth, preserving their journey from infancy to toddlerhood.
Tips for a Successful Mini Milestone Session
Choose the Right Time – Schedule the session when your baby is well-rested and fed to ensure the best mood and cooperation.
Keep Outfits Simple – Neutral tones or soft pastels work best to keep the focus on your baby’s expressions and features.
Bring Favorite Toys or Props – A favorite stuffed animal or blanket can add a personal touch and keep your child comfortable.
Trust Your Photographer – A professional photographer knows how to engage little ones and capture their best moments naturally.
Final Thoughts
Mini milestone sessions are a wonderful way to celebrate and document the small but significant moments in your child's life. They provide timeless keepsakes that you and your family will treasure forever. Whether it’s capturing giggles, tiny fingers grasping yours, or the excitement of a first birthday cake smash, these sessions freeze moments that might otherwise be forgotten in the whirlwind of daily life.
If you’ve been considering a milestone session, now is the perfect time to book one and start creating beautiful memories that will last a lifetime!
UNDERSTANDING GAS WITH A NEWBORN
One of the most common concerns for new parents is their baby’s discomfort due to gas. Newborns have developing digestive systems, making them more prone to gas buildup, which can lead to fussiness and discomfort. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and effective remedies can help ease your baby’s discomfort and bring peace of mind to parents.
As someone who works with many newborns, I often find that when I encounter a fussy baby, the issue is usually gas-related. Recognizing this common problem can help parents address it effectively and provide relief for their little ones.
Causes of Gas in Newborns
- Immature Digestive System – A newborn’s digestive tract is still developing, making it difficult to process milk efficiently.
- Swallowing Air – Babies often swallow air while feeding, especially if they have a strong or weak latch.
- Formula Sensitivities – Some babies may be sensitive to ingredients in formula, leading to gas and discomfort.
- Mother’s Diet (for Breastfed Babies) – Certain foods in a breastfeeding mother's diet, such as dairy, beans, or cruciferous vegetables, can sometimes cause gassiness in babies.
- Crying and Sucking on Pacifiers – Frequent crying and pacifier use can also cause babies to swallow excess air, leading to gas buildup.
Symptoms of Gas in Newborns
- Frequent fussiness and crying, especially after feedings
- Arching of the back and clenching of fists
- Pulling legs up towards the tummy
- Excessive burping or passing gas
- A bloated or hard belly
Remedies for Gas Relief
- Burping – Ensure you burp your baby after each feeding to release trapped air.
- Bicycle Leg Movements – Gently moving your baby’s legs in a bicycling motion can help release gas.
- Tummy Time – Laying your baby on their stomach while supervised can aid digestion and relieve gas pressure.
- Gentle Belly Massage – A clockwise belly massage can help move gas through the digestive system.
- Feeding Adjustments – If bottle-feeding, using an anti-colic bottle can reduce air intake. If breastfeeding, adjusting the latch may help minimize air swallowing.
- Checking Formula or Maternal Diet – If your baby seems consistently gassy, discuss possible formula changes with your pediatrician or try eliminating potential gas-inducing foods from your diet if breastfeeding.
- Gas Drops or Probiotics – Over-the-counter gas drops (simethicone) or infant probiotics may help relieve gas discomfort, but always consult a doctor before use.
When to See a Doctor
While gas is common in newborns, consult a pediatrician if your baby:
- Has persistent, inconsolable crying (colic-like symptoms)
- Shows signs of severe discomfort, such as excessive vomiting or diarrhea
- Has blood in their stool or a fever
- Experiences difficulty feeding or weight loss
Newborn gas issues are a natural part of early infancy and typically improve as the baby’s digestive system matures. By recognizing the signs and using effective relief techniques, parents can help soothe their little one and make the early months more comfortable for both baby and family.
- What Is The Difference Between A Lifestyle And A Posed Newborn Session?
The main difference between a lifestyle and a posed newborn session lies in the style, setting, and overall approach to capturing the baby and their family. Here's a breakdown:
1. Style and Approach:
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Lifestyle Newborn Session:
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Focuses on natural, candid moments between the baby and their family.
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The baby is often in their natural environment—usually at home.
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Emphasis on real-life interactions, emotions, and connections.
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Minimal posing—it's more about documenting everyday moments.
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Posed Newborn Session:
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More structured and carefully planned.
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Typically takes place in a studio with controlled lighting and props.
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The baby is posed in specific positions, often using blankets, props, and wraps.
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The focus is on creating artistic, styled images with a more polished look.
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2. Setting:
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Lifestyle: At-home sessions in the baby's nursery, living room, or parents' bedroom.
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Posed: Studio settings with specialized backdrops and props, though some photographers can create a posed look at home.
3. Baby's Age:
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Lifestyle: More flexible—can be done in the first few weeks or even a few months after birth.
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Posed: Usually done within the first 5-14 days after birth when the baby is sleepier and more pliable for posing.
4. Family Involvement:
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Lifestyle: Parents, siblings, and even pets are typically involved, capturing natural family dynamics.
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Posed: While family members can be included, the primary focus is usually on the baby alone.
5. Time and Preparation:
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Lifestyle: Typically shorter, with less prep required. The focus is on a relaxed environment.
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Posed: More time-intensive, requiring patience for detailed setups and ensuring the baby is comfortable.
Which Is Right for You?
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If you love natural, candid moments and want to capture the essence of your family's life with a newborn, lifestyle is ideal.
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If you appreciate artistic, curated images and don’t mind a bit of setup, posed might be the way to go.
- Why Parents Should Be in Newborn Photos Too
When you book a newborn photography session, the focus is of course on your beautiful new baby. But as a photographer who has worked with many families, I always encourage parents to step in front of the camera as well. These moments aren’t just about your little one — they’re about your growing family and the deep bond you share from the very beginning.
You’re Part of the Story
Your baby will only be tiny for such a short time, but the love and comfort you provide will always be part of their story. Including parents in newborn photos captures the connection, warmth, and emotions that can’t be told through images of the baby alone. When your child grows up and looks back at these photos, they’ll see how loved and cherished they were right from the start.
A Rare Season of Life
The newborn stage is fleeting — just a few weeks where your little one is so fresh, tiny, and dependent. While many parents worry about being “photo ready” after birth, trust me when I say this: you’ll never regret being in the picture. These images freeze a moment in time that will never come again. The beauty isn’t in perfection, but in the genuine love you show while holding your baby close.
Your Presence Brings Comfort
Some of the most touching images I capture are when a newborn is snuggled safely in a parent’s arms. Babies relax when they feel their parents’ touch, and that closeness often results in the most tender, natural photos. Those little fingers wrapped around yours, or the way they fit perfectly on your chest — those are memories worth preserving.
Building a Family Legacy
Family photos aren’t just for you — they’re for future generations. Imagine your child looking back decades from now and seeing not only themselves as a newborn, but also you as a brand-new parent. Those images become heirlooms, a beautiful legacy that tells the story of love, family, and belonging.
Final Thoughts
While it’s easy to want the focus entirely on your baby, remember that you are just as much a part of these first precious moments. Being in newborn photos doesn’t require perfection — it simply requires being present. The love and bond between you and your baby is what makes the images so meaningful.
So when you step into your newborn session, don’t shy away from the camera. Let yourself be part of the story. Years from now, you’ll be so grateful you did.
