Deciding whether or not to include breastfeeding photography in your newborn session, FAQ guide
Breastfeeding is an intimate moment between mother and child, so it’s natural to wonder if you should include breastfeeding photos during your newborn photography session. While it’s a powerful and symbolic activity, not everyone is comfortable photographing it.
If you are undecided, here are some points to consider before you book your newborn session:
Note: all images in this blog have been shared with permission of the clients.
Breastfeeding photos during your newborn photography session can be taken in tasteful, non-revealing poses.
Many clients understandably worry about feeling exposed or vulnerable while breastfeeding. There are plenty of poses and angles which are not revealing at all, and keep you covered.
Before the shoot, let your photographer know what your boundaries are. It’s important to have open, transparent discussions about what you are and aren’t comfortable with.
How can I protect my privacy if I want breastfeeding photos?
First, ask your photographer if their gallery service has privacy settings. Many galleries allow both your photographer and you to set images and entire scenes to private. Only invitees with permission will be able to view those images.
Second, check the “model release” portion of your photographer’s contract as well. Make sure you know what you’re agreeing to in that section, and if necessary, ask the photographer to ensure privacy with an NDA form.
Finally, you can also discuss with your photographer specific images you ARE okay with them sharing, if any.
What if I want to share my family or newborn photography gallery with friends and family, but not the breastfeeding images specifically?
Just like above, you’ll be able to hide specific images for all other viewers of the gallery. There are easy settings you have control over that will allow you to hide sensitive images!
What if I decide in the moment I do or don’t want to breastfeed?
Your photographer is there for YOU and your baby. There is never any obligation to breastfeed or not breastfeed. You can change your mind at any time.
What are the benefits of breastfeeding photography?
With each child, breastfeeding is a fleeting phase of their development. It’s a short moment in time where they are closest to you, and you’re bonded by an exchange of hormones, nutrition and love.
If you breastfeed, photography is a powerful portal back to that early phase of your infant’s life. They are images no one has to see but you and your partner (and maybe someday, your growing child!)
What if I don’t breastfeed, but use formula - can this be documented?
Absolutely! The most important thing is your baby is fed, and that intimate moment of feeding is a powerful and precious space to behold.
Summary: Should you include breastfeeding photos during your newborn photography session?
It’s always up to you. At any time, you can change your mind, and you should always have control over how your photos are shared, who can view them and how they are stored. If you feel these moments are extremely precious to you, it’s worth talking to your photographer about your wants. There are lots of ways to keep breastfeeding photos private, non-revealing and empowering.
Hi, I’m Kelsey | North Carolina Newborn, Maternity and Breastfeeding Photographer
I wrote this blog to help parents and couples like you. Hopefully, you found it helpful in deciding whether or not to include breastfeeding photos during your newborn photography session! I’m based in North Carolina, and would love to hear more about your session needs.
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