Cute and cuddly newborns.

It is becoming more and more popular to hire a photographer to capture that fleeting newborn phase. When Lydia spoke with me about photographing her daughter shortly after birth, I was torn. Could I create images that were true to my style, while still appealing and meaningful to the parents? I love photography, and I love challenges, but I have my own style of photography that is different from what is currently popular on newborn photography Pinterest boards (And I know that is a major driving force behind some mother’s tastes and decisions).

I also have a minimalist style with Photoshop, and many newborn photos are heavily edited. They remove the flaky skin, the birth marks, and most of the texture from the skin. While I have no issue with these beautiful images, and I admire that style of work, I would be straying from my artistic vision for my work, something I am not comfortable with.

I decided to do the photo session, and begin the “Real Newborn Project.” I determined a goal, or mission, for the project:

Create creative and unique images, in the family’s home (using their own blankets, pillows, rooms, property, etc.) , using my minimalist photo editing style.

This should result in images that are special to the family, are true to my style of photography, and a session that is very easy and low-stress for the parents.

This Real Newborn Project with Amelia took place in their home about a week after her birth. I arrived one morning shortly after a feeding, and while they were dressing her, I prepared for the shoot. Using their blankets that were handmade gifts from friends and relatives, I set up some posed shots, but I also took many shots that were un-posed, found moments. I was there less than an hour and a half, and it was a low-stress, relaxed morning with a beautiful little lady and her tired but happy parents.

Below is a slideshow with some of the images from the session.

I would LOVE to hear your feedback about the Real Newborn Project and/or the images from this first project. Please take a minute to leave me a comment below! Thanks!!

If you or someone you know might like to participate in the Real Newborn Project, please contact me for information on discounted sessions available in Jackson, Lenawee, and Hillsdale County in Michigan

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