What is the Secret to Beautiful Newborn Photos? 

When you think about stunning newborn photography — those dreamy, peaceful images of tiny toes and snuggly swaddles — you might imagine it’s all about the right lighting, camera gear, or editing. But here’s the truth: The real secret to beautiful newborn photos? A comfortable baby. 

Newborn photography is such a special kind of photography to me. I take great pleasure in being able to freeze time with a photograph that parents will cherish for the rest of their lives. Because newborn photography requires me to get up close and personal, creating the right environment for your baby is absolutely necessary. No matter how talented your photographer is, or how perfect the setup looks, if a baby isn’t content, the photos will reflect that. That’s why creating a calm, cozy environment is at the heart of every session I do. I strive to ensure my studio is a welcoming, calm environment for everyone (and that includes me so I can focus on my work). So, exactly how do I set up for my newborn photoshoots?

Why Baby Comfort Matters So Much

Newborns are incredibly intuitive. They can sense your energy, react to changes in temperature, and respond to unfamiliar environments. If they’re uncomfortable — cold, overstimulated, or hungry — they’ll definitely let us know.  On the other hand, when a baby feels warm, safe, and secure, they relax. Their muscles soften, their expressions become peaceful, and they naturally settle into those dreamy poses you love. That’s when the magic happens — and it’s real, not forced.

So How Do I Do It?

Here’s how I help make sure your little one feels safe, warm, and happy — and how that comfort translates into timeless, heart-melting photos:

Ensure the space is clean and hygienic: Cleanliness is key! Clutter and mess will have a negative affect on a newborn photoshoot. Everything is cleaned and disinfected before the photoshoot and afterward. I keep hand sanitizer on stock and not afraid to use it! It is important to me to ensure the safety of everyone (but especially the newborn). Tis is critical to building a good reputation for my business.

Warm, womb-like temperature: First and foremost, I want the little nugget to feel extra cozy, so expect my studio to be somewhere between 76 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. During part of the session, the newborn will be naked, so the air in the room needs to be very comfortable. Babies are most relaxed in a warm environment as they have become so accustomed to the warmth in the womb. I use a controlled space heater and a heated pad to warm the layers of blankets on the posing table so baby just sinks in and relaxes.

Turn up the white noise: babies startle very easily, particularly any new noises. White noise offers a consistent sound that is soothing and gentle. I have a sound machine on the entire photoshoot to mask the camera shutter and voices. If needed, I also will use a vibrating mattress pad to help soothe the baby.

Styling & props: I am more of a simple, clean, elegant photographer but I will use certain props/clothing/backdrops to add a bit of flare and variety. Too many props in a photoshoot is overstimulating for the baby, so I will plan ahead and discuss with the parents beforehand to ensure a smooth workflow and at the same time, get those “must-have” shots.

Professional lighting: I use lighting to ensure consistency in each shot and highlight those tiny little features of a newborn. Please know that the ‘flash’ will not harm the baby in anyway.

Comfort for parents, too:  Let’s not forget — you just had a baby. You’re tired, emotional, and adjusting to a whole new life. The last thing you need is a stressful photo session.  I  create a calm, no-pressure environment where parents can rest, breathe, and just be. You can sit back and enjoy the moment.  

What Comfort Looks Like in Your Photos

When your baby is content, the results are undeniable:

• Soft, natural poses

• Peaceful expressions

• Gentle stretches, yawns, and snuggles

• Real, intimate connection between baby and family

The photos feel timeless because they are — captured in the quiet beauty of the present moment, not staged or stiff.

In the End – When Baby Is Happy, Everything Flows

Beautiful newborn photography doesn’t come from perfect poses or trendy props — it comes from honoring what your baby needs most: warmth, safety, patience, and love.  As your photographer, my job is to create a space where that comfort naturally unfolds — so you can walk away with not just stunning images, but a peaceful, meaningful experience.  Check out my blog about me and my studio

Step Inside: A Sneak Peek at My Newborn Photography Studio in Redondo Beach