Boys! I think it would be pretty neat to grow up as one of 3 brothers. The bond and the memories would be amazing. That's what I think of when I look at these 3. I'm excited that they will have this picture to look back on as a memory of when brother #3 was born.

Personalizing newborn sessions is something that I take pretty seriously. So, I took it to heart to make this session, with three brothers, cute and still keep the boy factor. I loved the burlap bow ties and suspenders that I found on etsy. Not knowing at the time if it would be a boy or girl, I bought burlap items for a boy or girl that would compliment the older boys outfits. I love, love, love how it all came together. I really appreciate the trust that their mom put in me to create a wonderful portrait. 

This newborn session just really made me happy as I went through the photos. I love it when a newborn session comes together just as I see it in my head. Each time I photograph a new baby, it becomes more and more clear to me, that this is my path and my focus as a photographer. I feel the most peace, patience and satisfaction with each newborn session that I get to be a part of. I just really enjoy it so much!

Last week was Newborn Safety Week for photographers all over the country. This is an opportunity for us to educate and encourage others who may be learning or may not know how to get that shot they they are looking for. Safety is always number one!!! A baby looks adorable in its natural state and does not require additional posing. That doesn't mean it isn't as cute as all get out to pose them in thoughtful positions that seem to defy all things that we know about newborns. However, newborns are not a prop and must be given the utmost consideration and care.
First some things that Ive learned along the way that are very helpful, if not a necessity for a safe newborn session:

1~patience, patience, patience. Babies don't give a hoot about your creative vision or if your on a time crunch. If you are rushed, you are going to be sloppy and make a mistake. This is not an area with room for mistakes.

2~A wireless remote. This is a must for me. Here is a link to the one I have. I have my hands on my newborns for any photo that will  be deemed a composite. I set my camera up on some books or a short tripod. Set my focal length, then I put one of the parents in charge of the remote so that I can use both my hands. When I'm ready, I tell them to push the button like they are my 6 year old! Otherwise, you may not end up with enough to choose from.

3~A brick. Yup, a brick. When I place my sweet babies in a basket, a bucket, a box or whatever else I may find to compliment them, I put a brick(or two)in the bottom of it prior to putting blankets, pillow and finally the baby into it. This ensures that the item does not become top heavy. Again, this is precious cargo I'm caring for and I'm not taking any chances!

4~A bean bag. I use this anytime I'm using a set up that has baby off the ground in a hammock or sling. I edit it out in a composite(the merging of two or more images) later. I want the baby no more than a couple inches from the bean bag.

5~Helpful and attentive parents. I make sure that I am clear about what I expect from the parents in regards to keeping their baby safe while I'm shooting. I want the parents within a foot or two of the baby during the whole session. I let them know that they are welcome to touch, hold or do whatever they need if the baby begins to fuss or fidget. I don't care if I'm in the middle of shooting, we snuggle baby back into contentment and then continue.

6~Be flexible. You will not always get the posed shot that you want. Some babies just are not having it. You know what, that's ok. Don't get frustrated and don't force it. Naturally posed babies are beautiful and perfect. Capture that well and your clients will love you. You can view more of my newborn art at Garden Gates Photography.


Here are some examples of composites and safety practices in my own studio:

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Rhiann Gates is a Newborn Portrait Photographer serving Yakima Washington and the surrounding areas. If you are interested in booking a session or would like more information, please email gardengatesphotography@hotmail.com

Yakima Newborn Photographer

Yakima Newborn Photography

 I'm awestruck everyday by the way that children see the world, and I can only imagine what babies dreams about. It is that thought that inspires me for every newborn session as a photographer. "What do their whimsical, sweet and pure thoughts consist of"? I try to capture a little bit of that in each photo. The calm. The peace. The innocence. The unconditional love. The hope. The imagination. The wonderful moments to be. When you allow the time to have newborn portraits or family portraits taken, you are essentially preserving a memory forever.
I love photography families. Seeing the interactions and the personalities of my clients, and then seeing those same personalities resonate in their portraits..that's the best feeling. I especially enjoy the times when extended family get together for large family pictures. I think it takes a lot of ambition and love to make that kind of a gesture as a whole for your family and for the generations to fallow.