Photos by Cheryl - How to Do a Social Distancing Newborn Session Life doesn’t wait for milestones—that’s been the entire lesson we can take from the year 2020. With ‘social distancing’ as a part of our vocabulary now, this massive shift in the way we communicate and interact with each other may last even past 2020. 

As a professional photographer, I too have felt the impact of this shift, but in my eyes there was only one response I could make to it: to adapt, to go with the flow, and see where it takes me. Though social distancing has also become a part of the way I take my clients’ photos, it’s actually become a real joy to see so many families embracing the idea of it. In today’s case, I’m talking about newborns.

Like I said, life doesn’t wait for milestones, and despite everything that has happened, some beautiful and wonderful new babies have arrived this year. I want to be able to show this world that your little one is worth celebrating, while keeping social distancing in mind while it lasts. Or, maybe you prefer social distancing because you or family of yours can get sick very easily and you’d rather not take any risks. 

I get it...I really do. When it comes to family, protecting them from harm comes first and foremost. So, if you have a new little one and need photos taken from a distance, here’s how to do a social distancing newborn session with ease.

1. Decide before booking: posed or lifestyle 

There are some big differences between these two types of newborn photography that are worth explaining. In posed newborn photos, the little one needs to be at least 2 weeks old in order to achieve that ‘little bean’ look. This pose usually is best when the newborn is ‘moldable’ (i.e. you can readjust their pose in several cute ways, usually as they sleep or when mom and dad and/or big brother and/or sister are cuddling them). Lifestyle indoor/outdoor newborn photos are exactly as they sound: they’re less posed and more natural, with lots of wiggle room for photo opportunities. And in this case, they are a more acceptable form of photo session.

Another big difference between these two newborn photography styles is the location. Typically most posted newborn photos take place inside of a studio, whereas lifestyle can take place outside or in. When social distancing must take place, it’s very difficult to get the desired poses you may want in posed photos without being hands-on. That’s why I personally prefer lifestyle photos of newborns since it offers a ton more creative possibilities without having to get too close to the baby. 

Of course, the choice is ultimately up to you, the parents.

2. Decide on a venue

Naturally the first choice should be wherever your baby is going to be the most comfortable. However, with more locations slowly re-opening, it’s still worth looking at all of the different options.

• Your house and/or backyard are perfect for lifestyle photos.
• Parks can be a good choice, provided that they take place early in the morning or late in the evening when few people are around.
• On the porch or behind a window is a new option for families who desire a socially distanced session.

If you prefer to discuss other possibilities for a location, I’m more than happy to lend you an ear.

3. Enjoy your little one’s presence at the session (while I’m at a distance)

Even though social distancing needs to take place, remember that these moments are all about your little one. Take this photo session as an opportunity to cuddle them, play with them, or have a picnic and bring out all of their favourite toys. The lens in my camera is long enough that I can stand apart from the fun and get some pictures of your little one having the time of their lives. At the end of the day, you’ll have all built up wonderful memories that you can cherish forever.

With a little planning and organization, everyone can enjoy a social distancing newborn photo session. Regardless of how you feel about social distancing, what matters most is that you celebrate this brand new part of your life. New parents, if you’re in need of newborn photos for your little one and want to adhere to social distancing requirements, please contact me today. In the meantime, you are more than welcome to visit my rates and pricing for newborn photography packages. Or perhaps a monthly plan is more to your liking?

Looking forward to meeting you and your new bundle of joy.

Creative Commons Attribution: Permission is granted to repost this article in its entirety with credit to Photos by Cheryl and a clickable link back to this page.