Capturing Timeless Moments: Photographing a 3–4 Week Old “Newborn”

I’ll be the first to admit it: I used to believe that the best time to photograph a newborn was always within the first two weeks. During that window, babies are typically sleepiest and more inclined to curl up in those classic, womb-like poses. But I’ve learned that life rarely fits neatly into a schedule—and neither do newborn sessions. Sometimes, for reasons beyond anyone’s control, it’s not possible to shoot in those first fourteen days. And that’s okay.

In fact, just recently, I found myself rescheduling a few newborn sessions due to a bout of flu-like symptoms that hit me and my kids. There was no way I was going to put a baby (or their family) at risk. Health and safety always come first. It got me thinking about all the reasons sessions get moved around. Maybe your baby needed an extended NICU stay. Maybe you didn’t realize how meaningful newborn photographs would be until after your little one arrived. Maybe you needed more time to heal—both physically and emotionally—before feeling ready to pose for pictures. Whatever your reason, a three- or four-week-old session can still yield beautiful, heartfelt images.

Why the Delay Might Happen

  1. NICU Stay:
    Some of my clients have welcomed premature babies or little ones who needed special medical attention right after birth. When a hospital stay is involved, the entire idea of a “two-week session” goes straight out the window. By the time everyone is settled at home—maybe around that three- or four-week mark—your baby might be more alert, stronger, and ready for their close-up. It can feel bittersweet knowing those earliest days weren’t as you imagined, but trust me, the gratitude and love you’ll radiate after overcoming those challenges will shine through in your photographs. By three weeks postpartum, she finally felt physically more stable and confident enough to enjoy the experience. That little bit of extra healing time allowed her to fully savor the session—no rushing, no guilt.
  2. Illness or Scheduling Conflicts (Photographer or Family):
    I never thought I’d have to postpone a newborn shoot because of my own health, but there I was with a fever and body aches that wouldn’t quit. I had two sessions booked that week, and after a couple of tough phone calls, we agreed it was best to reschedule. I felt awful about it. Yet both families were incredibly understanding. When we finally got together—about a week and a half later—the babies were older, a bit more alert, and guess what? We got some of the sweetest images. The extra time allowed me to be back at 100%, ensuring a safe, calm, and hygienic environment for these little ones.
  3. A Change of Heart about Having Newborn Photos:
    Maybe you didn’t initially plan for a newborn session at all. Between pregnancy, delivery, and adjusting to life with a newborn, the first few weeks can be an absolute whirlwind. Some parents only realize once their little one is here that they want these fleeting moments captured. If you didn’t book your session before birth, don’t worry— I do my absolute best to squeeze clients in and am happy to fit you in as soon as possible, even if your baby is a bit older.

What to Expect When Photographing a 3–4 Week Old

  • More Awake Time:
    At three to four weeks, your baby is likely more alert than a just-born newborn. They may spend less time in a deep sleep, which can mean fewer of those ultra-curled poses. But it also means the possibility of capturing sweet glimpses of their eyes, budding expressions, and early hints of personality.
  • Adjusting Poses and Approach:
    Because older babies are a bit more aware and less inclined to tuck into that traditional “froggy” pose, your photographer may opt for more natural, relaxed setups. Think cozy wrapping, gentle poses on soft blankets, or snuggly shots in your arms. This shift in style can lead to timeless, genuine images that highlight your baby’s unique features and growing spirit.
  • Personality Emerges:
    An older newborn might offer brief smiles, curious glances, or a charming yawn for the camera. These spontaneous moments add depth and character to your photo gallery—little windows into who they are becoming.
  • Baby Acne:
    This often starts to appear around 3-4 weeks, but don’t worry, Photoshop can take care of most of that.

Preparing for the Session

  1. Feeding and Comfort:
    A well-fed baby is typically more content. Don’t worry if they need breaks during the session—we’ll go at your baby’s pace.
  2. A Calming Environment:
    I provide along soothing elements, like white noise and soft blankets, to keep everyone relaxed. If you’re comfortable, your baby is more likely to be comfortable too.
  3. Go Easy on Yourself:
    Wear something that makes you feel good. Don’t worry about having the “perfect” outfit or hair. Your genuine love for your child is what will shine through in the final images. My style guide is very helpful, but as the title says, it is just a guide. At the end of the day, you have to be comfortable with yourself.

Embrace the Unexpected

Whether your original plan got derailed due to a NICU stay, a more extended recovery, unexpected illness, or simply because you initially hadn’t considered newborn photography at all, photographing your baby at three to four weeks old can still produce stunning, meaningful images. Instead of fretting about missed timelines, appreciate that this is part of your family’s unique story. You’ll be capturing the resilience, love, and journey that define your first month together.

In the end, these photos are about celebrating your baby exactly as they are in this moment—stronger, more alert, and showing the first glimpses of personality. With the right approach and a nurturing environment, even a slightly older “newborn” session can result in images that will become cherished heirlooms, brimming with the depth and warmth of your family’s one-of-a-kind experience.

About Tawny

Tawny is an award winning newborn and baby photographer based in Tri-Cities, WA, with a passion for capturing the precious first moments of life. With a background as an ER nurse specializing in caring for babies and hands-on mentoring from experienced photographers, Tawny brings a unique blend of skill and care to my sessions. Using natural light, simple setups, and beautiful photography to create heartfelt images of your baby’s earliest moments, she combines expertise and creativity to deliver stunning, safe, and timeless portraits.

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MEET Tawny

Newborn, Baby, Family, and Maternity photographer based in Tri-Cities, WA. Lover of mountains and beaches and everything PNW.

CONNECT:

I’ll be the first to admit it: I used to believe that the best time to photograph a newborn was always within the first two weeks. During that window, babies are typically sleepiest and more inclined to curl up in those classic, womb-like poses. But I’ve learned that life rarely fits neatly into a schedule—and neither do newborn sessions. Sometimes, for reasons beyond anyone’s control, it’s not possible to shoot in those first fourteen days. And that’s okay.

In fact, just recently, I found myself rescheduling a few newborn sessions due to a bout of flu-like symptoms that hit me and my kids. There was no way I was going to put a baby (or their family) at risk. Health and safety always come first. It got me thinking about all the reasons sessions get moved around. Maybe your baby needed an extended NICU stay. Maybe you didn’t realize how meaningful newborn photographs would be until after your little one arrived. Maybe you needed more time to heal—both physically and emotionally—before feeling ready to pose for pictures. Whatever your reason, a three- or four-week-old session can still yield beautiful, heartfelt images.

Why the Delay Might Happen

  1. NICU Stay:
    Some of my clients have welcomed premature babies or little ones who needed special medical attention right after birth. When a hospital stay is involved, the entire idea of a “two-week session” goes straight out the window. By the time everyone is settled at home—maybe around that three- or four-week mark—your baby might be more alert, stronger, and ready for their close-up. It can feel bittersweet knowing those earliest days weren’t as you imagined, but trust me, the gratitude and love you’ll radiate after overcoming those challenges will shine through in your photographs. By three weeks postpartum, she finally felt physically more stable and confident enough to enjoy the experience. That little bit of extra healing time allowed her to fully savor the session—no rushing, no guilt.
  2. Illness or Scheduling Conflicts (Photographer or Family):
    I never thought I’d have to postpone a newborn shoot because of my own health, but there I was with a fever and body aches that wouldn’t quit. I had two sessions booked that week, and after a couple of tough phone calls, we agreed it was best to reschedule. I felt awful about it. Yet both families were incredibly understanding. When we finally got together—about a week and a half later—the babies were older, a bit more alert, and guess what? We got some of the sweetest images. The extra time allowed me to be back at 100%, ensuring a safe, calm, and hygienic environment for these little ones.
  3. A Change of Heart about Having Newborn Photos:
    Maybe you didn’t initially plan for a newborn session at all. Between pregnancy, delivery, and adjusting to life with a newborn, the first few weeks can be an absolute whirlwind. Some parents only realize once their little one is here that they want these fleeting moments captured. If you didn’t book your session before birth, don’t worry— I do my absolute best to squeeze clients in and am happy to fit you in as soon as possible, even if your baby is a bit older.

What to Expect When Photographing a 3–4 Week Old

  • More Awake Time:
    At three to four weeks, your baby is likely more alert than a just-born newborn. They may spend less time in a deep sleep, which can mean fewer of those ultra-curled poses. But it also means the possibility of capturing sweet glimpses of their eyes, budding expressions, and early hints of personality.
  • Adjusting Poses and Approach:
    Because older babies are a bit more aware and less inclined to tuck into that traditional “froggy” pose, your photographer may opt for more natural, relaxed setups. Think cozy wrapping, gentle poses on soft blankets, or snuggly shots in your arms. This shift in style can lead to timeless, genuine images that highlight your baby’s unique features and growing spirit.
  • Personality Emerges:
    An older newborn might offer brief smiles, curious glances, or a charming yawn for the camera. These spontaneous moments add depth and character to your photo gallery—little windows into who they are becoming.
  • Baby Acne:
    This often starts to appear around 3-4 weeks, but don’t worry, Photoshop can take care of most of that.

Preparing for the Session

  1. Feeding and Comfort:
    A well-fed baby is typically more content. Don’t worry if they need breaks during the session—we’ll go at your baby’s pace.
  2. A Calming Environment:
    I provide along soothing elements, like white noise and soft blankets, to keep everyone relaxed. If you’re comfortable, your baby is more likely to be comfortable too.
  3. Go Easy on Yourself:
    Wear something that makes you feel good. Don’t worry about having the “perfect” outfit or hair. Your genuine love for your child is what will shine through in the final images. My style guide is very helpful, but as the title says, it is just a guide. At the end of the day, you have to be comfortable with yourself.

Embrace the Unexpected

Whether your original plan got derailed due to a NICU stay, a more extended recovery, unexpected illness, or simply because you initially hadn’t considered newborn photography at all, photographing your baby at three to four weeks old can still produce stunning, meaningful images. Instead of fretting about missed timelines, appreciate that this is part of your family’s unique story. You’ll be capturing the resilience, love, and journey that define your first month together.

In the end, these photos are about celebrating your baby exactly as they are in this moment—stronger, more alert, and showing the first glimpses of personality. With the right approach and a nurturing environment, even a slightly older “newborn” session can result in images that will become cherished heirlooms, brimming with the depth and warmth of your family’s one-of-a-kind experience.

About Tawny

Tawny is an award winning newborn and baby photographer based in Tri-Cities, WA, with a passion for capturing the precious first moments of life. With a background as an ER nurse specializing in caring for babies and hands-on mentoring from experienced photographers, Tawny brings a unique blend of skill and care to my sessions. Using natural light, simple setups, and beautiful photography to create heartfelt images of your baby’s earliest moments, she combines expertise and creativity to deliver stunning, safe, and timeless portraits.

Capturing the beauty and innocence of a newborn is an art form, and posing is key to getting those stunning shots. As a newborn photographer, I specialize in creating natural, safe, and timeless poses that showcase your little one in the most beautiful way possible. In this blog, I’ll walk you through some of the most popular newborn poses, their significance, and how I use different wraps and props to create unforgettable images.

1. Table on Hands Pose

The table on hands pose is a timeless and adorable way to showcase your newborn’s tiny features. In this pose, the baby is placed gently on a soft surface with their hands resting underneath their chin. This pose captures the peaceful, serene nature of your little one and allows for close-up shots of their sweet face.

What to Expect:
• Baby is supported by specially designed posing tools
• Poses can include hands tucked under the chin or resting beside the face
• Ideal for capturing the delicate features of your baby’s face, hands, and feet

2. Huck Finn Pose

This pose takes inspiration from the classic Huck Finn look—where your baby is positioned in a more relaxed, natural way, often curled up with their legs drawn in toward their chest. It’s a very comfortable pose that gives a peaceful and cozy feel, perfect for capturing your baby’s quiet moments.

What to Expect:
• Baby is placed on their stomach or side, gently curled up
• Focus on the baby’s profile, capturing soft details of their back and face
• A timeless, relaxed pose that captures the essence of newborn peace

3. Bum Up Pose

The bum up pose is a classic newborn pose that highlights your baby’s adorable little bum. It’s often used in newborn photography because it’s incredibly cute and natural, as it mimics the fetal position. This pose is also great for showing off those tiny, precious details like the back and the bottom.

What to Expect:
• Baby’s legs are bent at the knees, and their bum is gently raised
• It’s a very natural pose that mimics their position in the womb
• This pose is perfect for getting shots that highlight your baby’s delicate curves

4. In a Crate Pose

The crate pose adds a rustic, cozy feel to your newborn’s photo. The baby is carefully placed inside a small wooden crate, often with soft blankets or wraps. This pose can convey warmth and comfort while giving your photos a vintage charm.

What to Expect:
• The crate is filled with soft, fluffy blankets or fabric
• Your baby will be safely supported, with attention paid to their comfort
• This pose works well with neutral colors and textured fabrics for a cozy, timeless look

5. On a Flokati Pose

Flokati rugs are a popular choice for newborn photography because of their softness and texture. Posing your baby on a flokati allows for a cozy and natural look, with the baby’s delicate features standing out against the luxurious texture of the rug. It’s a soft, simple, yet elegant option for newborn portraits.

What to Expect:
• Baby will be gently placed on a fluffy flokati rug
• The soft texture helps create a natural, dreamy look
• Great for close-up shots that highlight the baby’s face and hands

6. Different Wraps: Adding Texture and Style

Wraps are an essential part of newborn photography, adding layers of texture, color, and softness to every shot. I use different types of wraps, including knitted wraps, cotton, and muslin, to create unique looks for each session. The wraps are designed to provide comfort and security to the baby while also offering beautiful styling.

Types of Wraps to Expect:
Knit Wraps: Soft, stretchy, and ideal for creating cozy, snug poses
Cotton Wraps: Lightweight and breathable, perfect for layering and adding texture
Muslin Wraps: Soft, breathable, and great for natural looks
Faux Fur Wraps: For adding a soft, luxurious texture to the background

Each wrap can be styled to suit your preferences—whether you’re looking for a classic, minimalist vibe or something more textured and bold.

About Tawny

Tawny is an award winning newborn and baby photographer based in Tri-Cities, WA, with a passion for capturing the precious first moments of life. With a background as an ER nurse specializing in caring for babies and hands-on mentoring from experienced photographers, Tawny brings a unique blend of skill and care to my sessions. Using natural light, simple setups, and beautiful photography to create heartfelt images of your baby’s earliest moments, she combines expertise and creativity to deliver stunning, safe, and timeless portraits.

As a newborn photographer in Tri-Cities, WA, my goal is to provide you with images that not only capture your baby’s unique beauty but also turn those precious moments into timeless works of art. One of the ways I achieve this is through careful and professional editing.

In this blog, I’ll take you behind the scenes to show the magic of newborn photo editing, including before-and-after examples, and share what you can expect from the process.

The Art of Editing Newborn Photos

Newborns are perfect just as they are, but even the most natural photos can benefit from a little editing. My goal is never to change your baby but to enhance the photo to match the serene and polished look you envision.

Editing newborn photos involves:

  • Softening flaky skin and baby acne.
  • Adjusting lighting and colors for a dreamy, cohesive tone.
  • Removing distractions, like stray hairs or wrinkles in the backdrop.
  • Perfecting any slight posing adjustments for symmetry.

Before-and-After Examples

Image 1: A side-by-side of the original photo and the edited version.
Caption: “In the original, you can see some redness and uneven skin tones, which are completely normal for newborns. In the edited version, the tones are smoothed, and the lighting highlights your baby’s peaceful expression.”

Image 2: Before and after a backdrop correction.
Caption: “Editing allows me to remove any wrinkles in the blanket or adjust the backdrop seamlessly, so all the focus stays on your baby.”


What Parents Should Expect

  1. Natural Yet Polished
    My editing style is focused on enhancing, not over-editing. Your baby’s features will remain natural and authentic, with only small adjustments for a professional finish.
  2. A Collaborative Process
    If you have preferences—for instance, keeping or softening certain skin details—let me know! Your input ensures the final images reflect your family’s vision.
  3. Patience is Key
    While the photoshoot itself is just one part of the process, editing takes time. I want every image to be perfect, so you can expect a delivery timeline of [insert your turnaround time].
  4. The Final Product
    Once the edits are complete, you’ll receive a gallery of beautiful, polished images that will become treasured keepsakes for years to come.

Why Editing Matters

Newborn photography is about creating a timeless memory of those fleeting first days. Professional editing ensures that the final images reflect the love, tenderness, and beauty of this special time.

If you’d like to see more examples or book a session, feel free to reach out. I’d love to help you create something truly magical!


About Tawny

Tawny is an award winning newborn and baby photographer based in Tri-Cities, WA, with a passion for capturing the precious first moments of life. With a background as an ER nurse specializing in caring for babies and hands-on mentoring from experienced photographers, Tawny brings a unique blend of skill and care to my sessions. Using natural light, simple setups, and beautiful photography to create heartfelt images of your baby’s earliest moments, she combines expertise and creativity to deliver stunning, safe, and timeless portraits.

As a newborn photographer in the Tri-Cities, WA, your baby’s safety and comfort are my top priorities—and they’ve been a lifelong focus of mine. While I work as a newborn photographer owning my own business, I also have worked as a nurse for about 14 years, with a majority of those being in the Emergency Department. This has given me invaluable experience caring for babies and ensuring their well-being during delicate situations. This background has given me a deep understanding of how to handle little ones with the utmost care, patience, and attention to safety.

In addition to my medical background, I’ve trained hands-on with experienced newborn photographers, learning advanced techniques to create stunning portraits while keeping safety at the forefront. This combination of expertise allows me to handle your little one with confidence, care, and creativity.

Capturing those precious early moments requires more than just technical skill; it demands a heart for babies, a commitment to safety, and a dedication to your family’s unique story. Here’s how I ensure your newborn is safe and comfortable during every session.


1. Always Baby-Led

Every baby is unique, and their comfort comes first. If your little one needs extra time for feeding, cuddles, or soothing, I pause the session. There’s no rush, and I follow their cues to ensure they’re happy and relaxed throughout the shoot.


2. Sanitized Equipment and Props

Before every session, I carefully clean and sanitize all props, blankets, and surfaces. Babies have delicate skin and immune systems, so I use only baby-safe cleaning products.


3. Proper Support and Positioning

Many popular newborn poses require expert handling to keep your baby safe. I always ensure that your little one is fully supported, whether it’s through a soft cushion, secure props, or even a parent’s hands.


4. Temperature Control

A cozy environment is essential for keeping newborns comfortable during a session. I keep the studio warm and provide soft wraps and blankets to keep your baby snug.


5. Hands-On Experience

With years of experience in photography, I have now honed my ability to work with babies gently and confidently. I’m trained in safe handling techniques and always prioritize your little one’s well-being above all else.


6. Open Communication

Your insight as a parent is invaluable. If you ever feel uncertain about a pose or have specific preferences, I’m here to listen. Together, we’ll create a stress-free experience for both you and your baby.


Why Safety Matters

Newborn photography is about capturing the fleeting beauty of your baby’s first days in the safest way possible. I want you to leave our session feeling not only thrilled with your photos but also confident in the care your baby received.


I’m honored to be trusted with capturing these once-in-a-lifetime memories for families in the Tri-Cities, WA. If you have any questions about safety or want to book a session, feel free to reach out!

About Tawny
Tawny is an award winning newborn and baby photographer based in Tri-Cities, WA, with a passion for capturing the precious first moments of life. With a background as an ER nurse specializing in caring for babies and hands-on mentoring from experienced photographers, Tawny brings a unique blend of skill and care to my sessions. Using natural light, simple setups, and beautiful photography to create heartfelt images of your baby’s earliest moments, she combines expertise and creativity to deliver stunning, safe, and timeless portraits.

So you never forget how they fit in your hands.

Why Book During Pregnancy?

The ideal time to photograph a newborn is within the first two weeks of life, specifically between days 5-16. During this precious window:

  • Babies are naturally sleepy and easier to pose
  • They still curl up in those adorable, womb-like positions
  • Their skin is typically at its clearest
  • Baby acne hasn’t usually appeared yet (if your baby has a little acne or bruising, no worries- I can edit most of that out)
  • They’re still in that magical, tiny newborn stage

Because timing is so crucial, I recommend booking your session during your second or early third trimester. This ensures you’ll have a guaranteed spot on my calendar when your little one arrives.

What About the Actual Session Date?

Since we can’t predict exactly when your baby will make their debut, here’s how we make it work:

  1. We’ll schedule a tentative date based on your due date
  2. Once your baby arrives, simply notify me, and we’ll adjust the session date if needed
  3. I always keep flexibility in my calendar to accommodate early or late arrivals

Special Considerations

Premature Babies

For premature babies, we adjust the timing based on their original due date to ensure they’re developmentally ready for their session.

Multiple Births

Twin or triplet sessions might be scheduled a bit later (around 2-3 weeks) to allow babies to gain strength and mom to establish a routine.

How to Prepare

Once you’ve booked your session, I’ll provide you with:

  • A detailed preparation guide
  • Feeding and scheduling tips
  • Ideas for personalizing your session
    • You get to fill out a questionnaire that notes your personal style, colors, likes and dislikes.

The Next Step

If you’re expecting, the time to act is now. Contact me to schedule your consultation, and let’s plan your newborn session together. These first days pass so quickly, but photographs preserve them forever.

Don’t wait until after your baby arrives to book your session – those first precious days can’t be recreated. Reach out today to secure your spot and ensure these fleeting moments are captured beautifully.

Hey there momma!
Have you been considering the idea of maternity photos, but sit there and wonder if you should book them? If you’re on the fence about scheduling them, I am here to tell you why you SHOULD book that session!

Preserve this Unique Moment in Time

Pregnancy is a fleeting yet profoundly significant period in a woman’s life. It’s a time of transformation, both physical and emotional, that passes all too quickly (Let’s be honest, it drags on and on, but in the grand scheme- its very quick). Maternity photos serve as a powerful way to freeze this magical moment in time.

These images capture more than just a growing belly; they preserve the radiant glow of an expectant mother, the mix of excitement and anticipation in her eyes, and the tender way she cradles her bump. Years from now, when the sleepless nights of newborn care are a distant memory, these photos will transport you back to the quiet anticipation of pregnancy.

Additionally, each pregnancy is unique. Whether it’s your first child or your third, the experience is never quite the same. Maternity photos allow you to document and cherish the distinctive journey of each pregnancy, creating a visual timeline of your path to motherhood and your own family.

Mark the Beginning of a New Chapter

Maternity photos symbolize the start of an incredible new chapter in your life. They serve as a beautiful bookmark, separating the pages of your life before and after becoming a parent.

These images are more than just photographs; they’re the opening lines of your family’s story. They capture the moment when you’re standing on the threshold of a new world, full of promise and possibility. In years to come, these photos will remind you of the dreams and plans you had for your growing family.

As a photographer looking back on my own maternity photos it serves as the beginning of a visual narrative of the story of my life becoming a photographer and why. They set the stage for the newborn photos to come that I fell in love with over and over, then the baby milestones, family portraits, and so on. I fell so much in love with documenting my own journey, I want to give that back to families. 

Here are some tips for you to consider for your maternity session:

To ensure you get the most out of your maternity photoshoot, consider the following tips:

Timing: The ideal time for a maternity photoshoot is typically between 28 and 36 weeks. At this stage, your bump is beautifully rounded, but you’re not yet feeling too uncomfortable. However, every pregnancy is different, so listen to your body and schedule when you feel your best.

Clothing: Choose outfits that make you feel comfortable and beautiful. Flowy dresses that accentuate your bump are popular choices. Consider bringing a few options to vary your looks. Don’t shy away from fitted clothing that shows off your new curves – embrace them! (I bring a changing tent with me for sessions so you can change outfits in privacy during your session if you choose too). 

Props: Consider incorporating meaningful props. This could be baby shoes, a sonogram picture, or items that represent your hobbies or passions. These add a personal touch to your photos.

Communicate with Your Photographer: Share your ideas, concerns, and any specific shots you’d like. As a maternity and newborn photographer I will guide you through poses and help you feel at ease.

Ready to capture this magical time in your life? Contact me today to book your maternity session and let’s create beautiful memories together.

Mention this blog and receive 5 free 5×7 prints (with purchase of maternity package)

Tawny Rochelle Photography is an award winning newborn, baby, family, and maternity photographer based in the Tri-Cities, WA. Serving Kennewick, Richland, Pasco, Benton City, Walla Walla, Prosser, and the surrounding areas. Tawny specializes in timeless, true to color photography and creates images you will cherish forever. 

When looking for a newborn photographer, there are so many questions you may have come up while on your search. In a market saturated with photographers, finding someone you trust and with expertise with newborns is of utmost importance. As a newborn photographer who has been specially trained in the care and handling of newborns, here are some questions you may consider asking your newborn photographer before booking. 

1. What is your experience and training in newborn photography?

What to Ask:

  • How many years of experience do you have with newborn photography?
  • How many newborn sessions have you done?
  • What safety measures do you take during the session?

I have been in photography for about 6 years. I started when my own children were born and wanted to capture every moment possible and freeze all their moments. I have spent time training in newborn photography. In addition to several online courses, I have had 1:1 hands-on mentoring with a newborn Photographer, livejoyphotography.com, with over 12 years of newborn photography experience. Since April of 2024, I have photographed several of my own clients. I have also been a registered nurse for 14 years, specializing in ER and pediatrics. Between my hands-on training and experience with handling newborns, your baby is safe with me. 

2. Style of Photography

In today’s day and age, there are so many different artistic views of newborn photography. From posing, lifestyle, fantasy with props, and the introduction of AI, you want to find a photographer that can create images that you will cherish forever.  Explain the difference between these styles and help parents decide what fits their vision.

What to Ask:

  • Can I see a portfolio of your work?
  • Do you offer posed sessions, lifestyle sessions, or both?
  • Can you work within a specific theme or color palette?

Most photographers offer an online portfolio of their work. My personal work can be found at tawnyrochellephotography.com/newborn. My goal is to create images that you will look back on in a year, 5 years, 15 years, 30 years when you’re holding your own grandchildren, and you will still be able to feel your brand new baby, and be transported back to those moments. 

I work in my in-home studio with posed and natural positioning. I have a variety of colors from white, neutral, pastels, to bold burnt orange, forest green, and deep plum. Prior to your session, you will receive a questionnaire to note your preferences. 

3. Safety and Comfort

Since newborns are fragile, their safety is a top priority during photo shoots. Highlight the importance of working with a photographer who understands newborn safety, like proper posing and handling techniques.

What to Ask:

  • How do you ensure the baby is safe and comfortable during the shoot?
  • Are you trained in handling newborns safely?
  • What happens if my baby becomes fussy or uncomfortable during the session?

With my experience as a nurse and mom, I can ensure your baby is safe. I take special time posing to make sure baby’s airway is open and positioning is comfortable and not harmful. I have also had 1:1 hands on mentoring with Lindsay Blackman, livejoyphotography.com, a newborn photographer of 12 years.

The studio is nice and toasty for baby to be comfortable when unwrapped, parents will be very warm- I encourage parents to dress in layers. 

During your session, the baby leads the way. We have time to settle baby, extra feedings. If baby is restless or uncomfortable we start with wrapped poses and work our way to unwrapping. 

4. The Location of the Session

Discuss the different session environments, such as studio vs. in-home shoots. Explain the pros and cons of each, like lighting, comfort, and equipment.

What to Ask:

  • Do you offer both in-home and studio sessions?

I offer sessions at my studio in my house located in Kennewick, WA. It is light and airy, full of natural light. I provide all the props and wraps baby will need during the session. 

5. Timing and Scheduling

The best time for a newborn session is typically within the first two weeks of birth. Explain why timing is key and how parents should plan ahead.

What to Ask:

  • When should I book a newborn session?
  • How flexible are you with scheduling if the baby arrives earlier or later than expected?

It is best to schedule your newborn session during your second trimester. This is also a great time to think about your maternity photos and documenting your beautiful pregnancy. 

I only take a few newborn sessions per month, so there is a lot of flexibility if your baby arrives early or later than expected. When you schedule, I pencil in your due date on my calendar, and once the baby arrives I give you a couple session dates that are available. 

I always encourage parents to reach out even if they did not schedule ahead of time to see if I have availability. While 6-15 days is ideal, its not a hard and fast rule.

Tawny Rochelle Photography is an award winning newborn, baby, family, and maternity photographer based in the Tri-Cities, WA. Serving Kennewick, Richland, Pasco, Benton City, Walla Walla, Prosser, and the surrounding areas.

The Importance of Capturing Newborn Photos: Why You Shouldn’t Wait

If you are currently pregnant, or thinking about having babies, or maybe you just gave birth to a beautiful, tiny, brand new human, you might be wondering about newborn photography. Why invest in newborn photography in the day of iphone cameras and “nice” cameras that anyone and everyone has access to?

As a specially trained newborn photographer, owner of Tawny Rochelle Photography, and mom myself, let me tell you why you will never regret hiring a newborn photographer. There is something magical about the first weeks with a newborn, their tiny fingers, the way they yawn, and every fleeting moment is precious.

Why Newborn Photography Matters

Babies grow and change incredibly quickly, especially during their first few weeks. Newborn photography captures these early details in a way that no other medium can. Those tiny toes, delicate lashes, and adorable sleepy expressions are worth remembering forever. Newborn portraits preserve this time in your family’s life, creating lasting memories for you and future generations to cherish.

When Is the Best Time for Newborn Photos?

The ideal window for newborn photography is within the first 6-15 days after birth. During this time, babies are still very sleepy and can be gently posed without being disturbed. After this period, babies become more alert and may not stay in those peaceful, curled-up positions that many parents love.

I recommend booking your newborn session around 20 weeks into your pregnancy to ensure availability, especially since sessions often fill up quickly. This is also a great time to consider bookmarking your pregnancy with a maternity session.

How to Prepare for Your Newborn Session

A newborn photography session requires planning, but don’t worry—I’m here to guide you through every step! Here are a few tips to ensure your session goes smoothly:

  1. Timing is Everything: All the sessions begin at 9:30am so we have plenty of time to capture baby without rushing.
  2. Warm and Cozy: A warm environment helps keep the baby comfortable and happy.
  3. Feed and Soothe Beforehand: A well-fed baby is usually a sleepy baby, which is perfect for those snuggly poses. If your baby needs to take breaks for feeding during the session, that’s completely normal too!
  4. What to Wear: Simplicity is key. Dress your baby in something easy to remove without disturbing their sleep. For family portraits, neutral tones like creams, soft pastels, or light greys tend to work best and keep the focus on the connection between you and your baby.

If you book a session with me, I provide a detailed Newborn Photography Prep Guide with all the tips and tricks you can do as parents the day before and morning of the session.

Creating a Stress-Free Experience

As a newborn photographer, I know how stressful it can be to bring a new baby to a photo session. That’s why I’m committed to making the experience as relaxing as possible for both baby and parents. I provide all the necessary props, backdrops, and equipment, so all you need to do is enjoy the moment. I also allow plenty of time for feeding, diaper changes, and comforting your baby, so there’s never any pressure or rush.

Why Choose a Professional Newborn Photographer?

Safety and experience are paramount when working with newborns. Professional photographers understand how to pose newborns safely and comfortably, ensuring the baby’s well-being is always the top priority. Plus, with high-quality lighting, equipment, and post-processing techniques, you’ll receive stunning images that truly capture your newborn’s personality and charm.

Final Thoughts

Newborn photography is about more than just photos—it’s about preserving memories of this incredibly special time in your life. These early days go by in a blink, but with beautiful portraits, you’ll have a keepsake to remind you of how tiny, beautiful, and loved your baby was from the very start.

If you’re expecting and thinking about scheduling a newborn session, I’d love to chat with you about creating timeless memories for your family. Feel free to reach out with any questions or to book your session today!

Visit my website tawnyrochellephotography.com and fill out the contact form today!

Tawny Rochelle Photography is an award winning newborn photographer based in Tri-Cities, WA and the surrounding areas. With a natural light studio, Tawny creates warm images that are sure to be cherished forever.