What kind of Newborn Photography is right for me?! A guide to finding the perfect style to capture those early days | Newborn Photographer, Parker, CO.
When I had my babies, newborn photography basically meant a quick hospital snap—harsh lighting, stiff poses, and maybe a sticker that said “It’s a Girl!” if you were lucky. These days? You’re spoiled for choice—and I couldn’t be happier for today’s new parents! There are now so many beautiful ways to preserve those first fleeting moments with your baby, each offering something totally unique.
So how do you know which style of newborn photography is right for you?
Let’s break it down.
💛 Birth Photography
What it is: A professional photographer present during labor and delivery to document the full birth story—from the intensity of contractions to the first breath, first cry, and that raw rush of love.
Why parents love it: It's incredibly powerful and emotional. You’ll see your own strength, your partner’s support, and your baby’s very first moments on Earth. These sessions are raw, documentary-style, and completely unscripted.
Good to know: Not every hospital allows photographers in the delivery room, so it’s important to check policies ahead of time. Also, this is usually for those very comfortable being photographed in a highly personal setting.
📷 Fresh 48 Sessions
What it is: A short session within the first 48 hours of baby’s life—usually at the hospital, birth center, or even at home. These sessions are natural and candid, capturing baby’s brand-newness.
Why parents love it: It’s a sweet way to document the little hospital bracelets, wrinkled toes, first yawns, and sleepy snuggles—without the unpredictability of photographing the full birth.
Good to know: Fresh 48s are minimally posed, and often include parents, siblings, or even grandparents visiting the baby for the first time.
🏡 Lifestyle Newborn Photography
What it is: A casual, at-home session focusing on the connection between family members in their natural environment.
Why parents love it: These images feel relaxed and authentic—your baby in their own nursery, your dog curled up nearby, siblings climbing into your lap mid-photo. It’s about love and chaos and home.
Good to know: There’s less posing and styling here. It’s more about storytelling than set-ups.
🏥 Hospital/Newborn Portraits
What it is: Often offered through larger hospital chains, these are quick photo sessions taken during your hospital stay.
Why parents love it: Convenience. It’s a no-fuss way to get at least some professional photos before heading home.
Good to know: Lighting and styling can be limited, and these are often more basic in terms of editing and creativity.
🎀 POSED Newborn Sessions (What I Do!)
This is where my heart lives—and where your baby becomes a work of art.
What it is: A highly stylized session, typically done in the first 5–14 days of life when baby is still sleepy and naturally curled. I gently and safely pose your newborn using soft wraps, beautiful props, curated backdrops, and carefully crafted lighting to create timeless, dreamy images. The ones that make you gasp when you see them.
Why I love it: Because posed newborn photography transforms a fleeting moment into fine art. It celebrates your baby’s perfect features, sleepy snuggles, tiny fingers and toes—presented in a way that feels luxurious, creative, and custom to your family. Every single detail is intentionally designed.
Why parents love it:
You don’t have to bring a thing. My studio is fully stocked with wraps, hats, headbands, bonnets, buckets, backgrounds, and more.
It’s a calm, baby-led experience. I follow baby’s cues, take plenty of breaks, and ensure everyone feels relaxed.
You walk away with heirloom-quality artwork. Not just a few phone snaps, but portraits worthy of your walls and albums your child will one day treasure.
Safety is my top priority. I’m trained in newborn safety (including infant CPR), and every pose is done with intention and care. Many poses, like the famous “froggy pose,” are even done as composites to protect baby’s wellbeing.
So... What’s Right for You?
The truth is, every newborn photography style has its beauty. It depends on your comfort level, your schedule, your aesthetic—and the story you want to tell.
But if you’re dreaming of soft textures, serene colors, sweet snuggles, and polished portraits that look like they belong in a magazine (or your nursery wall)... a posed newborn session might just be the perfect fit.
And lucky for you—I know a photographer 😉
Let’s create something beautiful together.
Contact Me to chat more!