Of course the basic structure of all life is organic but  there is something extra organic about newborns. They are so pure and special that their natural behavior is calming and peaceful. Funny how all infants behave that way. In addition newborns need containment so that they can feel protected and comfortable. This containment is actually a part of their developmental process. Everyone knows this as the swaddle. In newborn photography we will often see newborns swaddled. This is for many reasons but the main two are that it calms the infant and is aesthetic to the eye. This containment also allows the photographer to position infants in cute poses because it allows the infant to sleep despite outside distractions.

When I choose to shoot newborns in this organic light the neonatal intensive care nurse in me steps in. I use my experience as a NICU nurse to help reduce stimulation that could disturb the infant. But also I feel that babies themselves, contained and not contained have a way that they feel the most comfortable. They have poses that they naturally fall in. I then like to use these poses to my advantage but also to represent the newborn’s personality. I know your wondering what personality?  They are a newborn; they sleep, eat and poop. All newborns have a personality from day one. As a NICU nurse I need to recognize changes in this personality to evaluate their current health. As a photographer I recognize this personality so that I can best represent and capture their essence so that years later everyone can say…”yep even as a baby that was my kid!” It’s that talent that makes a good photographer. 

Another aspect about organic newborn photography is the use of available light. When only using available light it can be very challenging for the photographer. Available light can be very deceiving and hard to control. In addition it changes all the time…just with the movement of the wind. Yes, a butterfly off the coast of Africa can change the course of clouds here on Sullivans Island.  Available light can be too harsh, hard to maneuver and manipulate to where you want it to go and sometimes may need a little fill. When used correctly in newborn photography it can add a more organic feel. Also when coupled with the right background and props it can make a beautiful image.