I cannot stress enough how important it is to make sure that your newborn photographer is properly trained and well versed in studio newborn photography safety. Don’t be afraid to ask your photographer questions about their experience posing newborns and what to expect at your session. Any experienced newborn photographer will gladly answer any questions to help ease your mind. If you don’t know where to start, check my things to consider when hiring a newborn photographer post for some basics.
Below, you’ll find a quick list of things to be on the lookout for when it comes to the safety of your little one. Please note, this is not a fully exhausted list; just a few key points. 🙂
Adding Weights to Props to Prevent Toppling
This is a simple step, but often overlooked. The average newborn is usually between 6-8 pounds so countering their body weight with additional weight in a bucket or basket minimizes the likelihood of tipping. Small sandbags, ankle weights or flat barbell plates placed under cushions and posing pillows are all options that work well and won’t cause your sweet babe any discomfort.
Cushioning in Props for Added Comfort
Similar to above – stuffing matters. Soft layers, tiny blankets, wraps and pillows should always be used to provide cushion between baby and a hard prop. Ceramics and glass props break easily and should NEVER be used to ensure your baby’s safety.
Composites – Hands on the Baby at all Times
With the easy accessibility of DSLR cameras, many people think that being a photographer is an easy way to make quick cash and that’s not the case. This is especially true when it comes to handling babies. Too often people try to replicate the poses they see online without knowing the technicalities and precautions behind actually creating the images. Some of those sweet poses you see are actually multiple images merged together in photoshop. The safety of my baby boss is my number one priority and I never, ever compromise a baby for a cute shot. For example, the froggy pose should always be done as a composite, with a minimum of 2 images fused together. Hands never leave the baby.
Vaccinations and Sanitation
Is your photographer vaccinated? Do they have a sanitation policy? Don’t be afraid to ask if they are up to date on vaccinations; including TDAP and flu. Additionally, it’s imperative that they properly sanitize and clean studio props after each session, especially in the current climate. A good rule of thumb for me is if it touches a baby, it is cleaned before being used again. Germs spread easily and any step that can be taken to minimize their spread, I’m taking it!
As always, please feel free to contact me with any questions, I hope this helps in your research to choosing a newborn photographer even if it isn’t me 🙂 Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about newborn safety!
Sweet Souls Portrait Design specializes in maternity and newborn portraits. We offer studio newborn, outdoor maternity and limited outdoor family sessions in Charlotte, NC and surrounding areas. Contact us for more information or booking!
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