When I first started shooting newborns three years ago, there weren’t very many photographers locally that were “posing” babies, you could count them on one hand…and still have fingers left over.
It is a much more prominant style now, both here and worldwide, which is wonderful. Unfortunately, in some cases eagerness and excitement have allowed safety to fall by the wayside.
In an effort to educate photographers and parents alike, the first ever ‘Newborn Safety and Awareness Week’ has been introduced across our industry.
When we are entrusted with capturing precious memories for new parents, we have that our biggest responsibility is NOT getting the shot. Our primary goal is to provide beautiful portraiture while ensuring the absolute safety of a precious life.
When new parents come to the studio, they always comment on this image, hanging by the door:
It’s a personal favorite , and one that I shot while visiting my good friend Stephanie, while I assisted during her posing workshop.
When mom (usually) is finished looking, I ALWAYS say, “Thank you! It’s a composite!”
(composite= term used for the technique of merging two or more images into one final image)
You see, babies can’t do that…..and if they CAN, even for a split second, what happens next? Either their little wrists give out, or they flop over.
Newborn heads are heavy, and their necks are weak. What’s the first thing you do when holding a new baby? You support it’s head and neck.
Do not sacrifice safety for art.
Coming up tomorrow….what to look for when hiring a newborn photographer. Whomever they may be!
