It’s never worth risking your baby’s safety. That’s why I only use safe and sanitised props tried-and-tested poses that are in harmony with your baby’s physiological needs.
Certified Expertise and Safety Measures
In the photography industry, which is not regulated, anyone with a camera and the motivation to learn can proclaim themselves as a newborn photographer. However, this lack of regulation also means that there is a risk of inexperienced photographers, particularly in specialized areas such as newborn photography, causing harm if they do not have the necessary knowledge and skills to handle infants safely.
I am proud to hold a Pediatric First Aid Certification from the esteemed British Red Cross organization. It was a full 2-day training and is recognized by OFSTED. I have yearly professional insurance, and the best health and safety practices during the session. I always make sure that I pose baby safely and make composites later in Photoshop.
Complicated Newborn Poses
1. The Froggy Pose
This popular pose is known as the “froggy pose” and should always be created as a composite of two images, to ensure that the baby’s head is supported at all times.
2. Bed pose
Ensuring a secure newborn photoshoot is our top priority.
3. Saddle pose
Can you spot this baby’s dad lying down on the floor and hand on the baby’s back? Sometimes, parents ask to bring their props, and I always welcome them as it holds sentimental value for them. However, safety is one of the most important aspects to consider during newborn photoshoots, especially when props are a bit wobbly.”
4. Posing in various other props
Health & Safety Policies
Before the session
Before the newborn photoshoot, I will send you details about our session through email. I’ll share important information about the session and give you tips.
This is to prep parents for a 3-4-hour session and understand the importance of safety during the session.
During the session
Baby-led session: During baby photo sessions, I let the baby take the lead. The most important thing is to make sure the baby is comfortable and happy. If the baby doesn’t like a certain pose or seems uncomfortable with crying or moving around, I will try something else instead. The baby’s well-being is the top priority during the photo session.
Supervision: Babies will never be left unattended while in the studio. When the baby is in a complicated pose, I will ask a parent to keep their hands close to the baby or return the baby to their parents before leaving.
Temperatures: The studio temperature will be kept warm enough for the baby. Parents will receive a detailed email regarding how to prep for a newborn session after the booking is confirmed. Signs of a baby overheating are mottled skin redness in the face, and irritability. However, there’s no need to panic, especially if the baby is not wearing heavy clothes and the room is around 20 degrees Celsius. I recommend parents come dressed for a warmer ambiance.
Prop Selection: I make sure to secure all buckets and props with weights. If the baby is placed in props without weight without weights there could be a risk of them toppling over. Safety is our priority, and this precaution helps keep everything stable and secure during the photo session.
Overhead shots: When taking pictures from above the baby, I always have the camera securely attached to me with a strap. This ensures that the camera is safely connected to me, reducing the risk of dropping it while capturing shots from that angle.
Concentration: During the newborn session, I may not talk much because I’m constantly thinking about important details like the baby’s skin color, breathing, etc. While actively taking photos of your baby, I’d rather not shift my focus. However, during breaks, such as when the baby is feeding, we can have plenty of time to chat.
Baby’s comfort and safety:
When I pose the baby in a position, I always monitor their air circulation. if the baby shows any change in skin color, I’ll change the baby’s pose to a different position.
The 5 S’s Technique: Ensuring Baby Comfort During Newborn Photoshoot
During the session, I use the 5 S’s technique to calm down a fussy baby.
1. Swaddle -Swaddling calms by mimicking the womb, improves sleep, prevents startle reflex, and enhances response to soothing techniques.
2. Side or Stomach Position – The back is safest for sleep, but holding on the side, stomach, or shoulder calms fussiness.
3. Shush -Babies don’t need total silence, the womb’s noise is like a loud shush. White noise helps babies to calm down. I use a baby shusher for this.
4. Swing -Babies in the womb move around a lot, like jiggling Jell-O. When babies cry, gentle motions like the “Jell-O head jiggle” can help calm them. Remember to support their head, and keep movements small.
5. Suck -Sucking calms fussy babies. It’s the icing on the cake for deep tranquility. Many babies find comfort in a dummy.
As mentioned above, I am fully insured and hold an up-to-date Paediatric First Aid Certificate which specializes in newborn photography safety so you can be assured your baby is in safe hands.
Ready to capture the magic safely? Book a session now to experience the perfect blend of expertise and enchantment in our newborn photoshoot. Contact us to secure your timeless memories.