Over the years that I have been a professional newborn photographer, I have seen many fads and techniques come and go, but one question that keeps being raised is ‘Is newborn photography safe?’
When I undertook my training to be able to offer newborn photography, safety was a huge part of the curriculum.
I hadn’t realised how much safety plays a part during sessions, and it’s a reason you should definitely book an experienced or well-trained photographer for your newborn photoshoot.
I’ll take you through some of the safety aspects I have to consider when you bring your little one to me for their portraits.
Safe Newborn Posing
Even with the most natural posing during a newborn photoshoot, I am constantly aware and am checking your baby’s temperature and skin colour. My studio has to be very warm to keep your baby sleepy and settled without their clothes, so it’s important to keep an eye on your baby. My style is simple. I like to document your baby in the most natural and authentic way possible.
But in the past, before I chose this natural style, I used to do more “styled” poses. For certain poses, I had to ask a parent to ‘spot’ the baby. This might include keeping a hand on them at all times or staying very close to them depending on the shot. Often, the final portraits I produced were the result of two, or even three, images being merged together in photoshop. This ensures your baby is completely safe at all times. So don’t let a photographer create an image where the baby’s head is not supported. Or where the baby is placed in a basket or bowl without being held.
Prop Safety for Newborn Photography
When I use wraps during the session, I’m keeping an eye on your baby – I don’t want them wrapped too tightly or for them to get too warm. I’ll be looking out for their fingers and toes to stay nice and pink as an indicator that they are comfortable and safe.
When I use blankets and wraps, it’s easy for threads to become loose. I keep a close eye on this to make sure that any loose threads don’t become entangled in your baby’s hands or feet. I also check this before you dress your baby before you leave.
Safety in My Portrait Studio
As well as working closely with your newborn, I have to consider all aspects of safety while you are in my studio. For this reason, I don’t use synthetic air fresheners and don’t allow hot drinks in the area where I work. I offer tea and coffee to my clients, but they are consumed away from the beanbag where I work.
I also don’t use ladders to get overhead shots, instead investing in the correct lens to allow me to get the perfect image safely.
I check for trip hazards and ensure that all the props, blankets and wraps that have been used in a session are washed and sanitised before being used again in another session.
I’m a natural light photographer. However, on some dark days, I have to use artificial lights. All of my lighting and equipment are perfectly safe to use around newborns and young families, and my electrical equipment is tested annually.
Newborn Photography is Perfectly Safe
I hope this article has helped you to understand that newborn photography is perfectly safe if you choose a professional and experienced newborn photographer.
If you’d like to see footage of me working or what goes into setting up your session, you can see more on my Instagram account. I have a folder full of behind-the-scenes and if you follow me you can see my daily stories.
