Camden | Newnan, Ga Newborn Photographer + BTS

I fell in love, again. Okay, okay, YES... I knew it was coming. Who couldn't fall in love with a sweet little fellow only 8 days new? I can't resist it. It's inevitable. 

I want to back up a little and give you guys a run through of how I prepare for a newborn session. Before I do so, I'd like to preface it by saying that newborn photography is unlike any other. The challenges are very unique. I'm learning that newborn photography takes a significant amount of patience and practice. Doesn't anything challenging require those two things, at least? Yes. So knowing this, I am still learning how to capture the images that I seek. I'm growing, and it feels good. I want to share what I do with you. I'm not saying it's the right way, but just that this is how I do it, and it works for me (as J* would say).

Before shooting day:

• Shop: Anyone who has looked at newborn photographs knows that what makes them so amazing are the props used to enhance the personality of the photographs. I shop for baskets, bowls, fabric for backdrops, throws, buckets, wraps, hats, scarves, headbands, etc. As you can imagine, the list goes on. As the list goes on, you can see that it can also get pricey. I'm learning that there is nothing cheap about photography. I tell myself that once I have a good amount of props I'll be set... but the truth is, photographers always want more as there is always something newer, better or cuter. Where do I shop? Etsy.com, TJMaxx, Garden Ridge, Marshalls, Hobby Lobby, Antique stores, fabric stores, and online boutiques. (Oh, and  my grandparents' basement too!) 

• Plan/Research: Let's be honest. Where do we get most of our inspiration as artists? From each other! I would have never even known about newborn photography (or photography of any sort) if I hadn't observed someone else's work first. That's the beauty of it. I take ideas from other photographers that I like and I tweak them to make them my own. I put my personal touch on it by the choice of props, locations and editing techniques. Before every session, I sit down with my laptop and notepad (maybe a cup of tea or coffee, too) and make a list of poses that I want to capture. Why? Well, I'll admit I haven't always done this. I lived and I learned. When I'm wrapped up in photographing that sweet bundle of joy it's SO easy to forget poses. The worst feeling in the world is sitting in front of a sleeping newborn, camera in hand, and drawing a blank on what to do next. By having a list to refer to, things run smoother. Not only that, but arriving prepared with a list makes me look more professional.  No brainer, right?

• Prepare equipment: Because I've prepared a list of poses, I know what props I'm using.   Knowing this, I get everything ready the night before. I run through my list, checking it twice (like ol' St. Nick). I charge batteries, clear memory cards, clean lenses, and pack my camera bag so it's ready to go. And then, I get a good night's sleep :) 

Newborn photography has brought me so much joy. Pairing photography with a newborn is pure happiness in my book. Coupling the two is something I'm truly passionate about. I can't express the level of excitement that flows through my body before I meet that tiny, new addition to this great big world. 


My session with Camden was such a success. A big thanks goes out to his amazing parents, Craig and Chandra, for helping me get it done. They were such great helpers! They handled me rearranging their entire house like pros. Hey, we do what we have to do to make magic happen. Good news, everything went back just the way it was before my arrival (minus a few little pee spots, haha). Craig and Chandra- Again, congratulations! He is perfect. 

                                                             World, meet Camden.