Newborn photography is one of the most delicate and rewarding fields in the photography world. As parents anticipate the arrival of their little one, many have questions about what to expect when it comes to capturing those precious first moments. However, there are plenty of myths surrounding newborn photography that can leave parents confused or even hesitant to book a session.

As a professional newborn photographer, I want to set the record straight. Below, I’ll debunk the common myths about newborn photography to help you feel more confident and excited about your upcoming session.

1. Myth: Newborn Photos Must Be Taken Within the First Few Days of Birth

This is perhaps the most common myth out there. Many people believe that newborn photos have to be taken within the first 48 hours of a baby’s life in order to capture those “sleepy, curled-up” poses. While it’s true that the first few days of life are ideal for getting those sweet, sleepy images, newborn photographers can still capture beautiful shots much later than the 48-hour mark.

In fact, most newborn photographers recommend scheduling your session when your baby is between 5-14 days old. During this time, babies are still very flexible, and they sleep a lot, making it easier to pose them and get those adorable, peaceful shots. However, babies are unique, and some babies may be more alert or active beyond the two-week mark, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get beautiful photos at any age. For older newborns, a more awake and interactive session can still be full of sweet, intimate moments! I now photograph newborns up to 2 months, and beyond then I shoot milestones.

2. Myth: Newborn Sessions Are Always Posed and Styled

Another myth is that newborn sessions are always posed with props and elaborate setups, like babies in baskets or lying in flower crowns. While posed newborn photography is certainly popular, it’s not the only style, and not every family wants or needs this approach.

In fact, many parents prefer lifestyle newborn photography, which focuses on capturing more natural, candid moments in the comfort of their own home. Lifestyle newborn sessions tend to be more relaxed, with a focus on the baby in their natural environment, interacting with parents and siblings, and capturing those quiet, intimate moments without elaborate props or posing.

As a photographer, I offer a mix of both styles, ensuring each session is customized to the family’s vision and preferences. Whether you want posed portraits or a more documentary-style session, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach.

3. Myth: Newborn Sessions Are Always Stressful for Parents

Another myth is that newborn sessions are incredibly stressful and chaotic for parents. While it’s true that newborns are unpredictable and can have their moments, the process of a newborn photo session should be fun, relaxed, and enjoyable.

Professional newborn photographers understand the challenges of working with tiny babies and are skilled in keeping things calm and stress-free. In fact, many photographers will schedule plenty of breaks for feeding, soothing, and diaper changes, ensuring both baby and parents are comfortable throughout the session.

Additionally, if you’re worried about your baby not cooperating, don’t be. Newborn photographers are experts in working around the baby’s needs and can capture beautiful images even if your little one is wide awake or fussy at times. It’s all part of the process, and it’s important to remember that the goal is to capture memories, not perfection. Many moms tell me after their session that they felt so comfortable and relaxed and they were shocked at how at ease they felt.

4. Myth: You Have to Post Your Baby’s Personal Information Online

A common myth that often prevents parents from scheduling a session is the belief that, in today’s social media age, they will be required to share their baby’s personal information online, such as their name, birth date, or other details. This is completely untrue.

As a professional photographer, I respect your privacy and would never post any image of you or your childrenwithout your permission. Sharing personal information, such as names or birth dates, is entirely up to you. If you’re concerned about privacy, we can share beautiful images without showing your baby’s face, or with subtle edits to ensure anonymity.

You have full control over which images are shared, how they are shared, and with whom. Some parents opt to keep certain images private, and that’s absolutely respected. Your session is about creating memories for your family, and you should feel comfortable with how those memories are shared.

5. Myth: The Photographer Won't Let Me Hold My Baby

Some parents fear that during a newborn photography session, they won’t be allowed to hold their baby or will be kept away from them. This is absolutely not true!

You are, without a doubt, the greatest comfort to your child. While I’m there to capture beautiful photos and create memories, your role as a parent is central to the session. If your baby needs soothing or if they start crying, they will absolutely come right to you. You’re always welcome to hold your baby whenever you want. I’m here to help with soft rocking, shushing, swaddling, and ensuring the room is warm and comfortable, but ultimately, your baby is your baby, and you are the comfort they seek.

I will never banish you from the room or keep you away from your child. You’re welcome to hold and comfort your little one at any point during the session. My goal is to make you feel comfortable, supported, and part of the process, as we create beautiful, meaningful photos together.

6. Myth: Baby Can Smell Mom, So She Needs to Leave the Room or Stay Far Away

Another myth circulating is that babies can smell their mothers, and therefore, mom should stay far away from the baby during a session. While it's true that babies can smell their mother’s scent, the idea that being close to her will upset them is not true.

In fact, baby feels safest and most secure with mom. Anyone who has spent time with a newborn knows that the familiar presence of a mother is deeply comforting. So, I would never ask you to leave the room or distance yourself from your baby to avoid them “smelling” you.

The comfort of being near you is a key part of making your baby feel relaxed during the session. I’m here to help soothe your little one if needed, but your presence is important for both emotional support and for creating those intimate, peaceful moments in the photos.

7. Myth: Mom's Stomach Should Be Gone by the Time She Has Her Photos Done

This myth often leads to unnecessary pressure on new moms. There’s a belief that your stomach should be flat and that you should have "bounced back" to your pre-pregnancy body by the time you have your newborn photos taken. Not true at all!

Many moms still have a bit of a baby bump even weeks or months after giving birth—I did too, and so did Kate Middleton. Your body doesn’t instantly shrink back to its pre-pregnancy shape, and in fact, your body may never be exactly as it was. But that’s okay! You’ve just done an incredible thing, growing and bringing a new life into the world, and your body deserves to be celebrated for that. You’ve earned this new body, and there’s no rush to “look” a certain way for your photos.

The focus of your newborn session should be the love and connection between you, your baby, and your family—not on achieving an unrealistic, post-baby body standard. Embrace the beauty of the moment, the tender feelings, and the joy of welcoming your child into your family!

Final Thoughts

Newborn photography is about more than just getting the "perfect" shot; it's about capturing the love, joy, and beauty that surrounds your baby in those early days of life. By debunking these common myths, I hope you feel more prepared and excited about your upcoming session. Whether you’re interested in posed portraits or lifestyle images, props or simplicity, there’s no right or wrong way to document this special time.

As your photographer, my job is to guide you through the process, make you feel at ease, and ensure that we create memories you’ll treasure forever. So, relax, enjoy the process, and get ready to celebrate your new addition with stunning photos that will last a lifetime!


YOUR NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION WITH ELIZABETH LANG PHOTOGRAPHY