Safety First: Essential Tips for Safe and Comfortable Newborn Photography Sessions
Entering the world of newborn photography is akin to stepping into a realm of magic. The innocence of a baby’s slumber, the tiny fingers curled in serenity, and the ethereal aura of a newborn’s first days – it’s all simply breath-taking. But behind these enchanting images lies a world of responsibility. Safety is paramount when handling a life so delicate. It’s the unspoken rule that every newborn photographer and parent should be attuned to.
So, let’s delve deeper into the essential safety measures that ensure the tranquillity of a newborn photoshoot.
Want to know how to prepare for your newborn? Head to this blog >>
1. Proper Training: The Photographer's Badge of Honour
Never underestimate the power of a well-trained photographer. Handling newborns isn’t something learned overnight. From knowing how to correctly position a baby to understanding their delicate physiology, professional training is imperative. Parents, ensure your chosen photographer showcases their credentials, has undergone specialist newborn photography training, and can provide client testimonials.
2. Cleanliness is Next to... Safety
Newborns have developing immune systems, making them susceptible to infections. The studio, props, blankets, and outfits should be cleaned and sanitized before every session. Hand hygiene is of utmost importance, so photographers, assistants, and parents should wash or sanitize their hands frequently throughout the session.
3. Warmth and Comfort: The Key to Newborn Bliss
Babies lose body heat more quickly than adults, especially when undressed. The photography studio or room should be comfortably warm, ensuring the newborn remains cozy and at ease. Using heaters is common, but always ensure there’s no direct heat blasting onto the baby.
4. The Buddy System: Two Pairs of Hands are Better than One
Newborn poses, especially the intricate ones, often require more than one pair of hands to ensure complete safety. There should always be a spotter (often one of the parents) nearby, ensuring the baby remains secure and supported at all times.
5. Listen to the Baby: The Best Indicator of Comfort
A fussy baby is often trying to communicate. Whether they’re hungry, uncomfortable, or simply want a cuddle, it’s crucial to pay attention to their cues. Never force a pose. If a baby resists or shows discomfort, it’s a clear sign to move on to something else.
6. Props: Stable, Soft, and Safe
Props can add whimsy and charm to a newborn photo. However, safety should be the primary concern. Ensure all props are stable, soft where necessary (to avoid any potential injury), and devoid of small parts that can be a choking hazard.
7. Composite Images: The Magic Behind Advanced Poses
Some poses might seem as though the baby is unsupported, but in reality, they are created through the magic of composite images. Babies should never be left unsupported. Photographers take multiple photos – one with support and one without – and then merge them in post-processing to achieve the desired pose without any risk.
8. Stay Calm and Relaxed
A relaxed environment is key. Newborns, with their uncanny sixth sense, can pick up on anxiety or tension. The more relaxed the adults are, the smoother the session will flow.
Safety is a Collaborative Dance
A successful newborn photography session is a harmonious dance between the photographer, baby, and parents. Safety underpins every step, every click of the shutter, ensuring that the memories being created are nothing but joyful. After all, the most beautiful photos are the ones taken with utmost care, respect, and love, cherishing the gentle miracle that is a newborn.
You will find at Blink of an Eye Studios that safety is one of our top priorities.
