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?” During my training for newborn photography, I focused heavily on safety.

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. Here are some of the safety aspects I 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 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.

For more “styled” poses, safety is paramount. Sometimes, I ask a parent to ‘spot’ the baby, keeping a hand on them at all times or staying very close, depending on the shot. I often merge two or three images together in Photoshop to create the final portrait and ensure your baby’s complete safety. Never allow a photographer to create an image where the baby’s head is unsupported or place the baby in a basket or bowl without being held.

Prop Safety for Newborn Photography

I’m not a big fan of props in newborn photography as I believe simplicity is key. So for me, props are more pieces of fabric and clothing.

When using wraps during my session, I ensure they’re not too tight and the baby doesn’t get too warm. I keep an eye on their fingers and toes to stay nice and pink as an indicator that they are comfortable and safe. Blankets and wraps are checked for loose threads to prevent entanglement in your baby’s hands or feet, and I do a thorough check before you dress your baby to leave.

Photographers who use baskets, bowls or other types of containers should check if the surface is smooth or if there are potential pieces that can be harmful.

newborn safely posed on his back. Taken during a newborn shoot in London

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 enjoy them away from the beanbag where I work.

Rather than using ladders for overhead shots, I invest in the correct lens to safely capture the perfect image. I check for trip hazards and ensure that all the props, blankets and wraps used in a session are washed and sanitised before being used again in another session.

As a natural light photographer, I occasionally use artificial lights. All my lighting and equipment are safe to use around newborns and young families, and my electrical equipment is tested annually.

The Importance of Baby Safety in Newborn Photography

Baby safety during newborn sessions is my first priority! As newborn photographers, we must ensure the baby is safe and secure throughout the shoot and handle the baby with care so parents feel reassured and comfortable.

I remember feeling uneasy as a first-time mum when a paediatrician handled my newborn quickly and with one hand. She was only 12 hours new, I felt very uncomfortable and I was relieved only when I exited his room. I knew he was doing his job and he was a specialist. Still, I felt a bit nervous. It was the first time a stranger was holding her. This experience taught me the importance of handling babies with care, attention, and calm. So when parents come to me, it’s again, one of the first times that they see their baby held by a stranger. I don’t want them to feel as uneasy as I felt in that room 12 years ago. I want parents to feel at ease, knowing their baby is safe and well-cared for during the session.

Newborn photographer Valentina holding a baby during a newborn shoot. Safe newborn posing practice

Here are a few measures I take to ensure newborn photography safety.

Clean Space

Of course, this is the basics. Newborns are super fresh, not vaccinated yet and therefore more vulnerable to germs and viruses. Their immune system is building up slowly so a clean environment is essential. Even before COVID, cleaning the space before and after a session, washing the fabrics and outfits used in the session, using hand sanitiser throughout the shoot, and wearing clean clothes just for the session was the normality. If I wake up with a simple cold or if my daughter is sick, I postpone sessions to avoid any risk of transmission. If parents however decide it’s okay to do the session anyway, I worked with a face mask (even in pre-Covid time) if I have a running nose. l Baby safety is important from the very start.

Camera Strap On!

A lot of images are taken while I’m above the baby. So the baby is lying on the beanbag on his/her back and I’m directly on top of the baby with my camera. I always wear a camera strap when I take these photos. Not sure if you are aware but the camera with the lens is pretty heavy. Heavier than a baby. So it’s super important to have it secured around the neck to avoid any accidents. And sometimes photographers wear fancier straps, with patterned or floral materials, but I would be aware of the materials of those straps. I thought about buying them as well, as they look pretty, but most of them don’t have a rubber bag that grips on the neck or shoulder so they can be dangerous.

Baby Never Unattended

When I take photos I’m always near the baby. The beanbag is the main working area and where the baby lays during the newborn photoshoot. It’s a safe place. The baby is placed in the centre and physically cannot go anywhere. However, I’m always at an arm-length distance in case the baby will slightly move or has those normal startle reflexes. Being close allows me to quickly place a hand on the baby and reassure him/her. As they don’t have much control of their arms and legs, it’s important they feel secure. And promptly having a hand on them will soothe them and they avoid waking up. Normally, I have all I need around me. However, if I need to grab another blanket or something I forgot, I always ask parents to be close to the baby and keep an eye.

Baby safety. Black and white image of sleeping newborn on a beanbag with white blanket.

Never Force a Baby to Pose

My style is very simple. I like to keep it easy and authentic. And I’m baby-led. I don’t do poses that I believe are not natural for a baby and were “made” by photographers in their workflow to have more variety. Personally, I like a natural look. And capturing moments, emotions . . . Going back to poses, not every baby will go in every position. Some babies will be more “flexible” than others. Or simply more comfortable. While posing, babies normally will give some cues and if they pullback it means they are not comfortable. I usually give it another go, but if the baby looks unease I will move on. There is no need to upset a baby over a pose. Babies’ muscles and ligaments are not yet completely formed and it’s important not to put pressure or strain as this could cause injury.

Supporting Neck and Head

Again, as a mum, I was very careful to always support my daughter’s neck in the early months. And I had clients super worried about this too. I totally understand it. Babies don’t have control over their muscles in the neck. The head is also the heaviest part of their body and it’s wobbly. The little vertebras again are not fully formed yet and babies simply can’t support themselves. That’s why is super important they are supported all the time! I ensure the baby’s head is secure and supported at all times, both when I hold them and when parents do.

Avoiding Props

My style is simple and I don’t use any props. I did in the past but it’s not me. If props are used, they must be checked for safety. Avoiding breakable items like glass or porcelain and ensuring wooden or wire props are smooth and splinter-free.

Never Put Baby at Risk

No image is worth the risk of a baby’ safety. I have turned down parents’ requests for unsafe poses and setups, explaining my reasons. Sophisticated poses or elaborate setups must consider potential dangers. Images like hanging babies in branches or on vintage props should always be done with composite work in Photoshop to ensure safety. Safe newborn posing is essential.

I take this opportunity to point out that the baby is not up in the air in the image below. Baby is safely lying on the beanbag. I’m very surprised at the number of parents who think they have to hold the baby up high (and most importantly would be okay with it)!

Are you curious to see how the photo below is done? You can see a behind-the-scenes image here.

The Importance of Newborn Photography Training

As a newborn photographer since 2010, I’ve been able to capture countless precious moments. However, beyond the artistic aspect, the safety and well-being of the baby are paramount. This is why specialised training in newborn photography is crucial. I have undergone extensive training, receiving my photographer qualification with SWPP in 2013 and achieving the Pro Level with BANPAS in 2017. I’ve attended numerous courses focused on newborn safety, including in-person and online training with renowned experts like Kelly Brown and Ana Brandt.

Training is not just about learning to take beautiful pictures; it’s about understanding how to handle and pose babies safely, recognising signs of discomfort or pain, and reading their body language to ensure they are always comfortable and secure. This expertise is vital in creating a safe environment for the baby and providing peace of mind for the parents.

Now, I also offer training for newborn photographers entering the industry, helping them to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in this specialised field. Choosing a trained and experienced newborn photographer means choosing someone who prioritizes the safety and comfort of your baby above all else.

Conclusion

Baby safety is my top priority in newborn photography. For more details about my sessions, visit my website for useful information.

Remember, baby safety is always a big concern for every parent, so consider everything when choosing a photographer. You can read more about general baby safety and the most common accidents affecting infants on the NHS website.

Any questions feel free to get in touch

Comprehensive Guide to Newborn Photography Safety