One of the most common questions I hear from new parents is:
“Is newborn photography safe?”
The honest answer is… yes, and no.
That might sound confusing, but let me explain why this is such an important question—and what you need to know to make the best, safest choice for your baby.
Why Can Newborn Photography Be Unsafe?
When done properly, newborn photography can capture magical, heart-melting moments you’ll treasure forever. But here’s the truth: not all photographers are trained or qualified to work safely with newborns.
Sadly, many people invest in a good camera, start advertising newborn sessions, and begin posing delicate babies without the necessary training. That’s where risks come in.
Hi, I’m Debbie
I’m a qualified, safety-trained newborn specialist photographer based in Tamworth, Staffordshire (formerly Birmingham). I’ve been honoured to receive awards such as:
⭐International Runner-Up Newborn and Baby Photographer of the Year
⭐ Portrait Photographer of the Year
⭐ All Round Photographer of the Year
I also hold Craftsman and Master Craftsman qualifications—these aren’t just fancy titles. They represent years of experience and a deep commitment to both art and safety.
Did You Know? Newborn Photography Is an Unregulated Industry
That’s right. There are no legal requirements for training, safety knowledge, or certification. This means anyone can start offering newborn sessions with zero understanding of safe practices.
It’s heartbreaking to see babies being placed in unsafe props or forced into complicated poses by someone hoping to “get the shot.” As a new parent, you should never feel unsure or anxious about who you’re trusting with your precious baby.
What to Ask Before Booking a Newborn Photographer
The first question I’m often asked is, “How much do you charge?”
But the more important questions are:
⭐Are you trained in newborn safety?”
⭐ How much experience do you have specifically with newborns?”
Safety should always come before price. Experienced photographers charge more because they invest in ongoing education, safe studio environments, and most importantly—your baby’s wellbeing. If budget is a concern, many photographers (myself included) offer payment plans, or you can even add a session to your baby shower gift list.
Let’s Talk About Posing
Some of the most iconic newborn photos—like the popular “froggy pose”—require special techniques and composite editing. This means the image is created from two separate photos (each with the baby fully supported) and then carefully combined during editing.
It should never be done by someone who isn’t trained. Letting go of a baby mid-pose to “snap the shot” is incredibly dangerous.
When you look at professional newborn photography, what you don’t always see is the hand or parent supporting the baby, which is later edited out. That’s the mark of safe, responsible posing.
Comfort is Key
A trained newborn photographer will only book one session per day. Why?
Because newborn sessions can take 2–3 hours or more, and babies need time—for feeding, soothing, nappy changes, and simply being themselves. Rushing or pushing a baby to “get the shot” is not only stressful but unsafe.
Babies are smart little beings. They’ll let us know if something doesn’t feel right. A trained photographer knows how to read those cues, calm the baby, and make adjustments without pushing them beyond their limits.
What We Watch for During a Session
✨ Body support: Every pose is adjusted based on each baby’s flexibility and comfort.
✨ Circulation: A trained eye will immediately notice discolouration in limbs (such as purple fingers or toes)—a major red flag.
✨ Airway: The baby’s chin should never be pressed into the chest, as it can restrict breathing.
✨ Temperature: We maintain a warm studio environment, and I constantly monitor the baby’s comfort throughout.
Not all babies can or should do every pose. That’s perfectly okay! What matters most is that the baby is relaxed, comfortable, and safe throughout the session.
Top Safety Tips for Parents
If you’re currently researching newborn photographers, here’s what to look for:
✅ Ask what training they’ve had—a safety-trained photographer will proudly share this with you. Newborn Training should only be given by someone who is fully trained in the area of newborn photography with a required minimum number years of experience
✅ Check that they’re insured—this is non-negotiable.
✅ Read through their website—do they mention safety or training?
✅ Study their portfolio—do the babies look relaxed? Are any limbs purple or unsupported?
✅ Check for consistency—are their poses safe, clean, and repeated with care across different sessions?
Most importantly, ask yourself:
Is the price worth risking your baby’s safety?
How to Find a Trustworthy Newborn Photographer
🖼️ Dive deep into their portfolio. Look at several sessions, not just one or two highlight images.
🧠 Ask who they trained with—and take a look at that trainer’s work too.
💬 Do they talk openly about safety on their social media or website?
💼 Do they specialise in newborns, or are they a jack-of-all-trades? Specialisation usually means deeper expertise.
Final Thoughts
I hope this blog has given you a clearer picture of what goes into safe, professional newborn photography—and how to choose the right photographer for your family.
As an award-winning newborn photographer with years of experience and advanced training in safe posing, I am deeply committed to ensuring your baby is in the safest hands at all times.
If you ever have any questions, I’m always happy to chat. Your baby’s safety isn’t just part of my job—it’s my top priority.
With love,
Debbie
Deborah Longmore Photography
Previous Blogs on Newborn Safety:
📸 Ready to Book Your Newborn Session?
Whether you’re looking to document your baby’s very first days or preserve every tiny detail in stunning clarity, I’d love to help.
✨ Book your newborn session in Tamworth, Birmingham today and let’s create something truly special.
📩 Message me to chat about your session. I can’t wait to meet you and your little one!
Ready to Book Your Newborn Photography Session in Tamworth or Birmingham?
I’d love to capture these precious moments for your family.
Book your newborn session in Tamworth or Birmingham today to enjoy these benefits firsthand
👉 Contact Deborah Longmore Photography or book via the online calender today to check availability and reserve your due date.
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