Newborn photography has shifted a lot over the years. When it first took off, the emphasis was on elaborate props and complex setups. The trend now is moving in the opposite direction, toward something quieter and more classic.
Natural newborn photography is a term that gets used a lot at the moment, particularly in the US, and in my experience what comes out of America tends to reach us within a year or so. I’ve also noticed more parents writing on their options forms that they simply want natural images, which tells me the shift is already happening here too.
It’s worth saying that natural newborn photography doesn’t mean just putting your baby on a beanbag and hoping for the best. In a studio there will always be an element of posing and lighting to get the best result. What it really means is a return to classic portraiture, where your baby is the focus and the styling is clean and uncluttered.
That doesn’t mean props are off the table. Some families love them and they can be a lovely way to personalise a session. There’s no reason we can’t mix and match within the same session, and it’s entirely up to you.
