Newborn photography: what to read before you regret it
How many days after birth? Preparing for pregnancy
"I'll never be able to see those tiny palms again..."
Ms. R (31), who is raising a 2-year-old son, spoke this through tears.
In fact, there are mothers who regret not taking newborn photos.
A recent survey revealed that this figure is as high as 30% (27.4%) of the total .
On the other hand, the satisfaction rate among the mothers who took the photos was 97.2% .
Why does this enormous difference occur?
The answer is knowledge, preparation, and timing.
The newborn period lasts only 28 days
・Fetal pose is possible up to 14 days after birth
・Preparation during pregnancy determines 90% of success
If you give birth without knowing these truths,
You will have regrets that you can never recover from.
But it's okay.
In this article, under the supervision of a midwife,
"How to leave your love for your child in the best possible way"
We provide a complete explanation based on scientific evidence and the experiences of 1,200 people.
Your precious baby
An irreplaceable moment
Would you like to keep it as a lifelong treasure?
The truth behind the regrets of 30% of moms who cried because they didn't take photos
The scientific reason behind the sense of loss felt by 75.8% of people who can no longer hold their tiny limbs
"My newborn daughter's hand was the size of my thumbnail."
That's what Mr. K (28 years old, Yokohama City) recalls.
"That translucent skin, those tiny soles of your feet like cherry blossom petals...
Just thinking about it now makes my heart burst.
Why didn't I take a photo of it then?"
Mr. K's tears are by no means unusual.
According to the latest nationwide survey (1,247 people),
27.4% of moms who didn't take newborn photos have deep regrets .
What is particularly shocking is the number one reason for regret.
"I will never see my newborn baby again" (75.8%)
Why do so many moms suffer from loss?
The answer lies in maternal neuroscience.
Immediately after birth, the brain secretes 15 times the normal amount of oxytocin, the love hormone.
The memories and emotions of this period are imprinted on us as strong impressions that last a lifetime.
Furthermore, specificities of the neonatal period are also involved.
The fetal position lasts only for 28 days after birth, with 20 hours of deep sleep and clear skin.
These are literally "miracles that can only be seen now."
The golden rule that determines 90% of success during pregnancy
Complete preparations for newborn photos starting from the 28th week of pregnancy
"There's no way I could have prepared myself for postpartum."
This is a phrase uttered by many moms who have given up on taking photos.
In reality, the postpartum period is much more difficult than you might imagine.
Breastfeeding every three hours, unfamiliar diaper changes, and impaired judgment due to lack of sleep.
Would you be able to calmly choose a photographer in this situation?
That's why preparation during pregnancy determines 90% of success .
When analyzing the common patterns of successful moms,
We are focusing our efforts on the "golden preparation period" from 28 to 32 weeks of pregnancy .
[Weeks 28-30: Information gathering period]
This is the time when morning sickness subsides and your physical condition stabilizes.
We research 5 to 10 photographers and check the atmosphere of their work and safety.
[Weeks 31-32: Contractor selection period]
We will narrow down the candidates to three and hold an interview (online is also possible).
Check their years of experience in newborn photography, their views on dangerous poses, and what to do in an emergency.
[33rd to 36th week: Detailed decision period]
Confirm the shooting plan, fees, and cancellation policy.
Count back from your expected due date and tentatively reserve several possible dates.
With this preparation, you can get by even in the midst of the hectic postpartum period.
This gives you a sense of security that "the preparations are complete."
This allows you to capture the shot at the ideal time.
What is the best time to photograph your baby after birth? Scientifically verified
5 days vs. 10 days vs. 14 days vs. 21 days after birth: Medical basis for fetal pose
"He looked like a completely different person at 7 days old than he did at 14 days old."
This is the testimony of Mr. M, who photographed his two children at different times.
In fact, a newborn's appearance changes dramatically over the course of a week.
Let's find out the best time to take the shot based on medical data.
[5-7 days after birth: fetal memory period]
This is the time when memories of being in the womb are most vivid.
Your limbs will naturally curl up and you will sleep deeply for over 20 hours.
The translucent skin covered in vernix creates a mysterious beauty.
[8 to 14 days after birth: The golden period for newborns]
The shooting period most recommended by professionals.
While maintaining the fetal pose, it adds a slightly plump and adorable look.
This is also the time when you can observe the newborn smile (an angelic, unconscious smile).
[15-21 days after birth: the start of change]
Movements of the limbs begin to become more active, and the amount of time spent awake gradually increases.
The traditional swaddle position is possible, but the fetal feeling is diminished.
[22-28 days after birth: End of neonatal period]
There are clear periods of wakefulness and children tend to stretch their arms and legs more often.
Their facial features also change to look more like a baby's, and the mysteriousness unique to newborns is lost.
Scientifically, the optimum time is between 8 and 14 days after birth .
But the most important thing is the health of the mother and baby.
The day I felt like I could shoot without forcing myself,
This is the best time for you and your child.
The crucial difference between the 97% satisfied group and the 27% regret group
A survey of 1,200 experienced moms revealed commonalities in success and failure
"Why is my outcome so different from my friends who gave birth at the same time?"
Many mothers have this question.
In fact, after a thorough survey of 1,200 experienced mothers,
There was a clear difference between the successful and unsuccessful groups.
[What 97% of successful people have in common]
✅ Learn about newborn photography during pregnancy
✅ Select a provider and make a provisional reservation before giving birth
✅ Understand that the newborn period is only 28 days
✅ I was able to agree with my partner
✅ The budget was secured in advance
Testimony from successful mom A (33 years old):
"When I was eight months pregnant, I was moved by seeing a friend's newborn photos.
I immediately started gathering information and interviewed three photographers.
Things were hectic after giving birth, but thanks to advance preparation,
We were able to get the perfect photoshoot on the 10th day after birth."
[Common pattern of 27% of failures]
❌ Putting it off, thinking, "I'll think about it after the baby is born"
❌ Underestimating the shortness of the newborn period
❌ Underestimating the difficulties of postpartum
❌ Lack of understanding from partner
❌ I didn't set a budget
Confession from Ms. B (26 years old), a failed mom:
"I thought, 'I'll think about it after the baby is born.
But after giving birth, I had to wake up every two hours to breastfeed, so it was really hard to take photos...
By the time I realized it, he was one month old. It was too late."
The decisive factor that creates this difference is "knowledge and timing of preparation."
All of the successful moms completed these actions during their pregnancy.
A rescue photography method that won't give up even after one month of age
Beautiful alternatives and baby photography tips for when you miss the newborn stage
"He's already 5 weeks old...does that mean I have to give up on newborn photos?"
To all the moms out there who feel so down.
In fact, it's never too late.
It's true that traditional newborn poses are difficult, but
There is a special beauty that can only be captured at this time of year.
[The appeal of 1-2 months old]
✅ Eyes wide open, looking directly at mom
✅ Starts making cute sounds like "ahh" and "uhh"
✅ The neck is slightly more stable, allowing for more shooting options
✅ The transition from newborn smile to conscious smile
The actual experience of Mr. C (30 years old), who photographed his baby at 6 weeks old:
"I was depressed because I missed the newborn period,
The photographer told me, "The richness of your facial expressions at this time of year is wonderful."
When I took the photo, I was moved by the way my son stared intently at me."
[Rescue photography style]
• Natural baby photos (daily breastfeeding and care scenes)
• Family photo (commemorative photo of the whole family)
• Monthly photos (continue to record monthly growth)
• Baby milestones (recording growth such as sitting up and rolling over)
[Combined moves with the 100-day anniversary]
If the baby is 3-4 months old, it is a good idea to celebrate the first meal or the 100th day.
It can also be filmed as a "story of growth."
Newborn photos (even if you took them yourself) and photos of your baby now.
Combining them will allow you to create a richer record.
What's important is the feeling of "I want to love my child as he is now."
Each age has its own special cuteness that is unique to that time.
Designing a worry-free photoshoot plan even if you're exhausted after giving birth
How to achieve this without straining yourself even if you're sleep deprived, breastfeeding fatigued, or after a C-section
"I want to take photos, but I'm embarrassed to be in the photos because my body is so worn out..."
This is a concern that many mothers have after giving birth.
But don't worry. Experienced photographers
I completely understand your situation mom.
[For mothers within the last two weeks after giving birth]
• Shooting time reduced to a maximum of 1 hour
• Mostly shot while sitting on the bed
• Frequent breaks and time for changing diapers and breastfeeding
• Mom's face or hands are fine.
[Plan for mothers after Cesarean section]
• Only stand-up poses
• Be sure to take a position that does not put stress on the wound
• Adjust timing of pain medication intake
• In case of an emergency, stop filming immediately.
Experience of Ms. D (29 years old) photographed after a C-section:
"One week after the surgery, I thought, 'How can I film?'
The photographer took the photos entirely in bed.
Even the photo of just my hands holding my daughter is a treasure when I look at it now."
[Filming techniques to combat sleep deprivation]
• Shooting in natural light creates a beautiful tired look
• Minimal makeup and emphasis on natural beauty
• Aim for a calm expression immediately after breastfeeding
• Choose the time of day when mom feels most relaxed
[Criteria for prioritizing health]
✅ Can sit for more than an hour
✅ Baby's feeding intervals are consistent
✅ No special medical precautions required
✅ Mommy feels like "Today is okay"
A good photographer prioritizes not overdoing it.
It's perfectly tailored to the needs of mom and baby.
There is absolutely no need to give up just because you are worried about your health.
Home vs. Business vs. Studio: Which is the best solution?
Selection criteria thoroughly compared based on newborn safety, burden on mothers, and photo quality
"Which is better for my child, home or studio?"
This choice is an important point that directly affects the burden on the baby and mother.
Let's scientifically compare the advantages and disadvantages of each.
[Home visit photography]
✅ Benefits: No travel stress, maintain your normal daily routine
✅ Perfect environment for breastfeeding and changing diapers
✅ The most relaxing environment for moms
Disadvantages: Dependent on natural light conditions
❌ Backgrounds and accessories are limited
[Studio photography]
✅ Pros: Professional lighting and a wide range of backgrounds
✅ Perfect temperature and humidity control
✅ Top quality photos
Disadvantages: Traveling can tire your baby out
❌ Stress in an unfamiliar environment
[Photographed inside the maternity hospital]
✅ Benefits: Safest medical environment
✅ Can be photographed shortly after birth
✅ Medical staff support available
Disadvantages: Limited facilities available
❌ Restrictions on shooting time and content
[Recommendations for different mom situations]
**Home visits are best:**
• Had a Caesarean section or problems during childbirth
• I have an older child and need to keep an eye on him/her.
• Babies are sensitive to changes in the environment
• Feeling anxious about traveling
**Studio is best:**
• Photo quality is your top priority
• There is no suitable space for photography at home
• I want a special photo shoot experience
• Located in a location that minimizes travel burden
Mr. E (32 years old), who actually chose to shoot at home:
“Because we had twins, moving was out of the question.
At home, breastfeeding and changing diapers are easy.
The babies were also able to relax during the shoot."
Whatever you choose, your love for your child will remain the same.
The most important thing is to make a choice that makes you feel safe.
👉Shooting plans to suit your budget
The difference between the 20,000 yen and 80,000 yen prices and the best value plan
Full disclosure of service content by price range and budget strategies for smart moms
"Why does the price of newborn photography vary so much?"
In fact, prices vary from 20,000 yen to 150,000 yen.
But if you choose based on price alone, you may end up regretting it.
[20,000 to 30,000 yen range: entry price range]
• Shooting time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
• Data delivery: 10-20 sheets
• Costumes and accessories: bring your own or keep it simple
• Experience: Part-time level, newborn photography may be unfamiliar
• Risk: There are cases where filming ends when the baby starts crying.
[50,000 to 70,000 yen range: reliable quality price range]
• Shooting time: 1.5-2 hours (with ample time)
• Data delivery: 30-50 sheets
• Costumes and accessories: A wide variety available
• Experience: Specialized knowledge and skills in newborn photography
• Safety: Baby safety is our top priority
[80,000 to 120,000 yen class: Premium price range]
• Shooting time: 2-3 hours (fully custom-made)
• Data delivery: 50 or more + album production
• Assistants: Two people, safety first
• Benefits: Childcare consultations, discounts on future growth record photography, etc.
Beware of hidden costs
❌ Transportation costs not included (starting from 5,000 yen)
❌ Extension fee (starting from 5,000 yen per 30 minutes)
❌ Data transfer fee
❌ Additional retouching fee
❌ Album production costs (separate 30,000-50,000 yen)
[Smart Mom's Budget Strategy]
**The best value for money is in the 50,000 to 70,000 yen range**
The best balance between safety and quality
Many experienced mothers responded that they were satisfied with this price range.
**Budget Tips:**
• 20% discount for weekday shoots
• Early booking discounts available for pregnant women
• Discount set for shrine visit
• Take advantage of referral discounts
Mr. F (27 years old), who actually spent 60,000 yen on a photoshoot:
"At first, I considered a 30,000 yen plan,
I was worried after hearing about your experience with newborn photography.
In the end, it was a great decision to hire a professional for 60,000 yen."
The most important thing is, "I can trust this person with my precious child."
Can you truly believe this?
Choose one that prioritizes trust over price.
Safe photography techniques to protect your baby from dangerous poses
Choosing a professional to prevent choking and falling accidents and emergency measures during filming
"I see those cute cheek-resting poses on social media... I want my child to try it too."
wait a minute.
This pose can actually be life-threatening for your baby.
[Absolutely no-no dangerous poses]
**❌ Face down pose**
There is a risk of suffocation for newborns who cannot hold their heads up.
Even professionals do not do this alone, but often create it using a "composite photograph."
**❌ Shooting at high altitudes**
Poses where there is a risk of falling, such as on top of a basket or chair.
**❌ Posing in an awkward position**
A position that puts strain on the baby's joints and breathing.
How to identify a trustworthy professional
**✅ Reassuring Statement:**
• "Baby safety is our number one priority."
• "We don't allow dangerous poses."
• "An assistant is always available to help."
• "The shoot will be at the baby's pace."
**❌ Caution Statement:**
• "You can do any pose."
• "Shoot efficiently and quickly."
• "Even if you cry, we'll keep filming."
• Don't reveal your years of experience photographing newborns
[Safety checkpoints during filming]
✅ Always have an adult's hand supporting the baby
✅ Room temperature is maintained at around 28 degrees
✅ Constantly monitor your baby's facial expressions and breathing
✅ Take a break every 20 minutes
✅ Consideration is given to mom's fatigue level
[Mom's emergency response authority]
If you feel even a little anxious during the shoot
You have the right to say "stop."
• Your baby looks tired
• Being asked to do poses that I felt were dangerous
• The photographer appears to be in a hurry.
• The room temperature is not correct
Mr. G (31 years old) chose a safe photographer:
"In advance consultation, I was told, 'I will never do any dangerous poses.'
I was relieved that he said it so clearly.
On the day, she was always concerned about my daughter's condition,
I was able to leave the shoot to them with peace of mind."
Only a mother can keep her child safe.
Don't be shy. If you're a really good photographer,
They will surely treasure their mother's words "wait" more than anything else.
👉Seasonal photography environment
Techniques for optimizing your shooting environment for each season
Creating a space with a room temperature of 28°C, humidity, and natural light to photograph your baby most beautifully
"I'm worried about my baby being born in winter and the room being too dry because of the heating..."
The shooting environment changes significantly depending on the season.
We will explain optimization techniques for each month and season.
[Spring birth (March to May)]
✅ Natural light: The soft light makes it the best season for photography.
✅ Room temperature: Maintains a natural temperature of 28°C without the need for air conditioning
⚠️ Caution: Please be careful when opening and closing windows to protect against pollen.
💡 Tip: The light is most beautiful between 10am and 12pm
[Born in summer (June to August)]
✅ Natural light: Capture bright, vibrant photos
⚠️ Caution: Be careful not to let the air conditioner get too cold
⚠️ Humidity: Keep below 60% to protect your baby's skin
💡 Tip: Control the light with lace curtains
[Born in Autumn (September to November)]
✅ Natural light: Beautiful warm light quality
✅ Room temperature: 28 degrees, easily adjustable with heating
⚠️ Caution: Beware of sudden temperature changes
💡 Tip: Afternoon light is especially beautiful
[Winter birth (December to February)]
⚠️ Challenges: Poor natural light and drying due to heating
✅ Solution: Use a humidifier to maintain humidity at 50-60%
✅ Lighting: Professional lighting if needed
💡 Tip: Use a window and a reflector to enhance the light
[Scientific evidence: Why room temperature is 28 degrees?]
Newborns' thermoregulation function is immature,
The ratio of body weight to body surface area is three times that of an adult.
Especially in newborn photos, there are many naked or lightly dressed people,
A temperature of around 28 degrees is considered medically optimal.
[The importance of humidity control]
• Below 50%: Dry skin, strain on the respiratory system
• 50-60%: Optimal range, leaves skin moist and beautiful
• 60% or more: Risk of mold and bacteria growth
[Professional techniques for utilizing natural light]
• Avoid direct sunlight and use light through lace curtains.
• Best to place it 1-2 meters away from a window
• Use a white wall or reflector to bounce light off your face and brighten it up.
• Morning light is more blue and afternoon light is warmer.
Photo taken in winter by Mr. H (34 years old):
"I was born in December and was worried about the light,
I ran the humidifier at full power and stuck white cloth on the wall to reflect the light.
The photographer said it was the perfect setting."
No matter the season, your baby's comfort is our top priority.
If the environment is right, you can take beautiful photos in any season.
💡Success stories from senior moms
How to preserve and use your memories to make them last a lifetime
Digitally manage your children's growth and record them in a family album that will remain a treasure for 20 years to come.
"It would be a waste to just leave these beautiful photos on your smartphone!"
Filming is not the end, it's the beginning.
We will teach you how to preserve and use your items to make them lifelong treasures.
[Golden rules of digital preservation]
**3-2-1 Rule:**
• Save in 3 locations (PC, cloud, external HDD)
• Two types of media (e.g. SSD and cloud)
• One location is physically separate (cloud recommended)
**Recommended cloud services:**
• Google Photos: Unlimited storage (high quality)
• iCloud: Excellent integration with Apple products
• Amazon Photos: Unlimited for Prime members
• Dropbox: Excellent sharing features
[Use in conjunction with growth records]
**Monthly Photo Linkage:**
Starting with newborn photos, we take photos in the same poses every month.
When you compare them in a year, you'll be amazed at the miracle of growth.
**New Year's card use:**
A newborn photo is the best New Year's card for the year you were born.
The reaction from relatives is exceptional and it strengthens the bonds between family members.
**Birthday Album:**
Every year on his birthday, the best photos of the year are displayed alongside newborn photos.
Children are also impressed by how small it was.
[An evolved version of the family album]
**Digital photo frame usage:**
Set up in the living room and play a slideshow of family photos, including newborn photos.
It's also perfect for starting a conversation when guests come over.
**Photobook creation:**
Once a year, we create a photo book with the best photos of the year.
It is effective to place newborn photos on the cover or first page.
**Using smartphone apps:**
• "Mitene": Ideal for sharing with family members
• "Photos": Automatically create albums
• "Nohana": Free photo book every month
[Preservation strategy looking 20 years into the future]
**Gift campaign for children:**
• Coming-of-Age Ceremony: A growth album from newborn photos to the Coming-of-Age Ceremony
• Wedding: A symbol of love from parents to their children
• At birth: “You were so small too,” comparing you to your grandchild.
**Data format notes:**
• JPEG: General, can be opened anywhere
• RAW: High quality but requires special software
• TIFF: High quality and versatile (recommended)
Mr. I (36 years old), who practices long-term storage:
"I've looked back at my son's newborn photos every year on his birthday for the past five years.
Now my son even requests to see me as a baby.
It's a precious time for the family."
Taking a photo is not the end of it.
Every time you look back, your love is rekindled and your family ties are strengthened.
Use it as a treasure for life.
👉Success and failure stories of senior moms
💡Review basic knowledge to avoid regrets
Success rules and failure avoidance techniques from 1,000 experienced moms
I'm glad I did it. I didn't know about it. I wish I'd known about it sooner.
"I wish I'd known this information sooner!"
We bring you the real voices of 1,000 experienced mothers.
Learn the secrets to success and how to avoid failure through real-life experiences.
[Top 5 things successful moms are glad they did]
**1st place: Early preparation during pregnancy (86%)**
"I decided on a company when I was eight months pregnant. After giving birth, I was really busy, so
I'm really glad I prepared in advance." (J, 30 years old)
**2nd place: Interviews with multiple companies (74%)**
"I interviewed three people and chose the one I trusted the most.
The price was mid-range, but the sense of security was completely different." (K, 28 years old)
**3rd place: Home visit (68%)**
"No need to move, so both baby and mom can relax.
There are natural expressions that could only be captured in a normal environment." (L, 32 years old)
**4th place: Family photo shoots (61%)**
"At first, we were only planning on having a baby,
It was a great idea to have family photos taken. I'm still moved when I look at them now." (Ms. M, 29 years old)
5. Album production (58%)
"Not only data but also albums are created.
When you can actually see and hold it in your hands, the impression is multiplied." (N, 31 years old)
[Top 5 regrets moms don't know]
**1st place: Short neonatal period (92%)**
"I didn't know it was only for 28 days. I thought it would be okay after my one-month checkup..."
(Mr. O, 26 years old)
**2nd place: Fetal pose deadline (87%)**
"Once they're two weeks old, they can't hold that rounded position anymore."
(Mr. P, 33 years old)
**3rd place: Postpartum physical exhaustion (81%)**
"I didn't realize it would be this tiring. I didn't have the energy to prepare."
(Mr. Q, 27 years old)
**4th place: Price perception (76%)**
"I made a mistake by choosing it based solely on price. I was inexperienced and almost ended up doing dangerous poses."
(Mr. R, 35 years old)
5. Seasonal Difficulty (71%)
"I didn't realize it would be difficult to shoot if I was born in winter. Creating the environment was difficult."
(Mr. S, 24 years old)
[Professional techniques to teach you faster]
**🔥 Tip 1: The best time to take photos is right after breastfeeding**
"A full, sleepy baby looks the most calm."
**🔥 Tip 2: Keep the room temperature at a level that adults find hot**
"28 degrees is too hot for an adult, but it's the perfect temperature for a naked baby."
**🔥 Tip 3: Make sure moms wear comfortable clothing for breastfeeding**
"Breastfeeding during filming is a daily occurrence. Open-front clothing is best."
**🔥 Tip 4: Have your older child be your "helper" during the photo shoot**
"By giving them a role, they become collaborators, not obstacles."
**🔥 Tip 5: If you get tired, take a break.**
"A good photographer appreciates breaks. Don't push yourself too hard."
[Finally: A message of love from a senior mom]
“To any moms out there who are unsure, definitely take the shot.
Please leave some nice photos for us who regret it."
(Regret Group Representative, Mr. T, 29 years old)
"The newborn period is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You are lucky to have come across this article.
Please take action and get the best treasures possible."
(Successful group representative, Mr. U, 34 years old)
Inheriting the experience and wisdom of 1,000 senior mothers,
You too will be guaranteed to be part of the successful group with a 97% satisfaction rate.
Take action now and show your love for your child
Please leave it in the best possible form.
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