Now that you’ve started your search for the perfect newborn photographer you’re probably coming across a lot of questions. It’s a big decision, there’s no doubt about it. This person will handle your little love, your newest addition. To help you navigate the process, I’m sure you’re scouring through dozens of websites to find a photographer who captures from swaddled up, to snuggled in a basket, to smiling in family photos! While all of these deserve some thought, don’t forget to factor in the most important consideration of all: newborn safety. 

Safety is the number one thing to consider when hiring a newborn photographer. Babies are only 5 to 10 days old, so they are small, vulnerable, and absolutely adorable. An experienced newborn photographer will not only have extensive training on the proper handling of an infant for posing, but will also know how to create an environment that is safe, warm, and welcoming. Maintaining a warm temperature that is consistent is key for both safety and comfort. It also helps babies stay sleepy, which allows them to be posed swaddled up, snuggled in a basket, or cozy in your arms in their newborn photos. Still, many of the sweet poses you see of newborns on Pinterest are accomplished with the additional help of Photoshop and are truly just an illusion. Therefore, it’s never a good idea to ask a friend who has a good camera to pose your baby and take some photographs. 

After photographing babies for 5+ years, I’ve learned exactly what is required to accomplish these poses- and trust me, they are all dependent on the baby! For example, some babies are very sensitive to light, while others snooze right through the whole session- but you don’t really discover their sensitivities until you are already in the midst of photographing them. An experienced photographer will start with a plan, but will pivot if the baby is uncomfortable in any way. 

Many times, some helpful hands are required for ensuring safety during certain poses. Getting the perfect shot is never worth risking the safety of a newborn. Certain poses require specific safety factors that ensure the baby doesn’t topple over or . Just because a baby looks asleep, doesn’t mean they won’t move—between the startle reflex and newborns just being unpredictable. Even simple things like making sure the camera strap is securely around my neck when photographing directly above a newborn are things an inexperienced photographer may not even think to do. For this reason, newborn photography should never be DIY. When calling around to reserve a baby photographer, be sure to ask about their safety know-how. 

Here at Jenna Rose Photography, photographing your newborn is an honor I don’t take lightly! I spend the time listening to your newborn’s cues, getting to know your family, while providing a luxury experience and will help shhh them to sleep while gently and safely placing them in poses that will create portraits you will cherish forever. 

Ready to book your newborn session?? Just fill out the form below to get started!!