Is newborn photography safe? | spokane Newborn Photography

Is newborn photography safe?

There is nothing more important than the safety and well-being of your new baby. Some methods of newborn photography are completely safe, and others definitely have some risks. Here’s what you should consider before booking a newborn photoshoot.

Choose an experienced photographer.

First and foremost, choose an experienced photographer who specializes in newborn photography. Most experienced photographers who work with newborn babies professionally are insured and trained on safe newborn handling. Ask your photographer before you hire them about their posing and soothing methods. I am very passionate about newborn safety. I use a method called baby-led posing, which is the safest way to photograph a newborn. Everything is done at the baby’s pace, which I’ll get into this more later in this post.

Cameras and flash are Generally safe.

Next thing, there is nothing about the camera or the flash that is harmful to your baby as long as they are being used properly by a trained professional. I was previously an eyecare professional and there is nothing about cameras or flashes that is unsafe- we actually used them in our office to photograph eyes. The only caveat is for those with known light sensitivity disabilities. If you have any concerns, choose a photographer who uses primarily natural light, like me. I only use a flash when absolutely necessary which is very, very rare in in-home newborn photography. Always, always, always voice any concerns that you have with your photographer and only book with those who are willing to accommodate you and your needs. Where the safety concerns come in is posing and “soothing” practices.

The safest place is always your home.

The number one safest place to have newborn photos done is in your home with a professional newborn photographer. When you stay home, you are keeping your baby’s environment the same. There’s no change in temperature, environmental exposures, props used by other families, all the same people other than your photographer, there’s no traveling. Home is the safest place.

Choose a photographer who lets you do the soothing.

There are some common soothing methods that can be implemented by photographers but not all of them are safe or in the best interest of your baby. Some common methods are very warm studio temperatures, overfeeding, tight wrapping and swaddling, loud sound machines and removing the baby from the mother. I would never recommend any of these. I prefer that parents choose and do the soothing themselves to ensure that the baby is safe and in their usual rhythm. Ask your photographer how they handle soothing before you hire them.

Choose a photographer who only uses natural poses and doesn’t use props.

Just because a baby can be put into a pose, doesn’t mean they should be. If you want absolute assurance that your baby is safe, choose a photographer that does not use unnatural poses or props. I believe babies are perfect exactly as they are and don’t need props or unnatural poses to look beautiful. In some of my newborn sessions, the parents hold their baby the entire time.

So, is newborn photography safe? Yes, as long as you choose an experienced photographer who aligns with and understands you and your baby’s needs.

Want to learn more? I have tons of newborn photography tips in my blog. Check it out here.

• Is newborn photography safe?

  Short answer: Yes! As long as you book with an experienced photographer who aligns with you on what you believe is safe and right for your baby.

• Do you handle the baby during the session?

  Most of the time, no I don’t handle your baby at the session. I occasionally assist parents with grabbing a burp rag, but I am very minimal about touching babies. I also wash my hands upon arrival to ensure that as much of the baby’s environment doesn’t change as possible.

• What if my baby cries or we need a break?

  My newborn photoshoots allow for plenty of time for breaks or to feed or change your baby. Babies cry to communicate, so it’s very common that babies fuss or cry a bit during the session, that doesn’t mean anything is necessarily going wrong and the photos always turn out anyways. If you have concerns always speak up.

• Are there any complicated or risky poses?

  No, I do not use any complicated or risky poses. Everything is done at the pace of your baby and most posing is parents holding the baby or the baby laying on the parents bed. Parents are heavily involved in my newborn photoshoots. I only use poses that babies would naturally be in on a daily basis and I never use any props.

• What precautions do you take for cleanliness?

  The main precaution is that I wash my hands at your home when I arrive. This way your baby is not being exposed to other lotions or hand soaps. I do not wear perfume. I clean my camera equipment between each session, but none of that will make contact with your baby. I don’t bring swaddles or props with me, everything we use is from your home so there are no cleanliness concerns.

• Can siblings be safely involved in newborn photos?

  Yes, siblings can be safely involved. If you have concerns I recommend having a grandparent or extra set of hands to watch your older children for some of the session if they don't join for the whole thing. I have many pose options for siblings which involve them holding the baby, or the baby laying in a safe place with them around, or parents holding the baby while siblings get in close. I keep parents heavily involved to keep everyone safe.

• What if I'm nervous or unsure during the session?

  This is pretty rare, because of the way that I work, but if you feel unsure at any time all you have to do is say “stop”. I am here to support you and I never want anyone to feel uncomfortable or nervous.