This is one of the most requested shots at a newborn session, and it’s easy to see why. It’s also one of the most involved to create, which isn’t always obvious from the final image.

a black and white image of a newborn baby in a traditional froggy pose at a newborn photo shoot

A newborn can’t hold this position independently. They can’t support the weight of their own head on their hands, and even if they could, they wouldn’t particularly care about helping us achieve a nice photograph. So the shot is built as a composite, which means it takes two people, careful timing, and a baby who’s willing to tolerate the whole process.

The way it works: dad supports the baby’s arms first, getting the position right. Then the head is supported separately. The transfer between the two support points (without substantially shifting the baby’s position) is the tricky part, and it requires a settled baby and a patient helper. I’ll always try it if I think there’s a chance of getting there, but I won’t push it if the baby isn’t happy.

This little one was extremely settled, which gave us the conditions to give it a proper go. Dad stepped in as chief support assistant and we got there first time. It came off perfectly and the result is exactly what it should be, clean, simple, and a face you could look at all day.

Newborn Photography in East Grinstead

The best time for your baby’s newborn session is between five and ten days old, when they’re at their sleepiest and curliest and those calm, natural images come easiest. I’d recommend booking while you’re still pregnant, so we can pencil in a provisional date and adjust once your baby arrives.

Your session takes place in my warm, cosy studio in Crawley Down, designed with your baby’s comfort in mind. Sessions are relaxed and unrushed, and include three digital images of your choice for £95. There’s no sales session, just a private online gallery where you can view and choose your favourites in your own time.